Discover the historic trails of Ohakune on a mountain bike, with hassle-free shuttle service from Dempsey Buses. Experience stunning scenery and rich history on this celebrated Kiwi route.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; focus on endurance and bike handling skills
Wildlife
History
The Old Coach Road was built in the early 20th century to connect remote settlements, playing a key role in regional development.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve native flora and fauna along the trail, with a focus on sustainable tourism.
Dempsey Buses
Discover the historic trails of Ohakune on a mountain bike, with hassle-free shuttle service from Dempsey Buses. Experience stunning scenery and rich history on this celebrated Kiwi route.
Dempsey Buses provides shuttle and pickup services for outdoor adventures in the Ohakune and Tongariro areas. The operator runs a set of tailored transfers that support hikers, mountain bikers and skiers with practical transport between trailheads, parking points and skifields. Services include pickups for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing from locations such as Ohakune, Raetihi and National Park, daily shuttle operations to the Ohakune Old Coach Road start/finish at Horopito, and transfers to the Turoa skifield using vehicles adapted for alpine conditions.
Dempsey Buses offers group-friendly options that remove the hassle of bike transport by providing bike-friendly pickups and shuttle space for gear. Several trips feature concise travel times—some pickups described as approximately 30 minutes—so clients can focus on the hike, ride or ski rather than logistics. The operator emphasises safety: services run only in favourable weather and track conditions for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and related trails. Drivers are described as skilled in winter operations for secure skifield transfers.
For trail access, Dempsey Buses includes shuttle stops at historic and scenic points such as the Old Coach Road when transporting riders to the Te Hangaruru trailhead or Horopito. The combination of designated pickups, adapted alpine vehicles and clear safety conditions makes Dempsey Buses a practical transport option for visitors planning day trips on local trails and slopes.
Tours Offered
6 Trips
Shuttle and pickup services listed
Daily Shuttle
Old Coach Road
Daily service to Horopito
Alpine Transfers
Adapted vehicles
Secure skifield transport
Safety Focus
Weather-dependent
Operates only in safe conditions
Reserve a pickup for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Old Coach Road, Turoa skifield or Te Hangaruru trailhead — secure your spot before weather-dependent runs fill up.
Check your brakes and gears
Ensure your bike is in good condition before tackling the trail to handle descents safely.
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated during the ride, especially in warmer weather or challenging sections.
Wear helmet and protective gear
Safety first—always ride with helmet and suitable protection for rough terrain.
Start early in the day
Morning rides help avoid afternoon crowds and provide the best lighting for photos.
Helmet
A well-fitted helmet is crucial for safety on rugged trails.
Rain jacket
Protect against sudden weather changes in New Zealand's mountain climate.
spring|fall|winter
Hydration pack
Keep water close for hydration during your ride.
Gloves
Improve grip and protect hands on rough terrain.