Spooner's Tunnel Ride with The Gentle Cycling Company
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4-6 hours including stops
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with basic cycling fitness comfortable with up to 50 km distance.
Overview
Cycle through Spooner’s Tunnel on a scenic, mostly downhill 50 km route from Kohatu to Nelson. Cross swing bridges, visit charming villages, and unwind at local breweries after an unforgettable ride.
Spooner's Tunnel Tour
Great for Exploring diverse landscapes • Very Popular
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of cycling through the enchanting Spooner’s Tunnel on a scenic 50 km downhill ride from Kohatu to Nelson. Enjoy breathtaking rural landscapes, cross swing bridges, and explore charming villages with delightful eateries. Cap off your adventure with a refreshing drink at nearby breweries, making it a memorable day out!
Looking to ride the Spooner’s Tunnel? Book your transfer to Kohatu then ride through the Spooner’s Tunnel and back to Nelson. Our bikes or yours. And don’t forget your lights - the tunnel is really long and really dark!
Duration
Approx. 45 mins shuttle 4-6 hours cycling
About
The Spooner's Tunnel trip is a marvelous day ride and fast becoming a customer favourite. We will transfer you from our base in Tahunanui (or from Nelson) to the Flat Rock Cafe at Kohatu to start the ride. From here it’s a beautiful 50 km off-road trail back to Nelson and it’s pretty much all downhill. The route is very scenic, and you will ride through some of the prettiest rural landscapes in Nelson.
The Spooner's Tunnel is a disused rail tunnel almost 1.4km long. Once through the tunnel, highlights include rural views from mountains to the sea. You will ride over swing bridges, through native forest, past hop gardens and lush farmland dotted with historic farm buildings. The villages of Wakefield and Brightwater both have tasty places to eat.
With a detour you could also visit a craft brewery. The food cluster at Old Factory Corner is a short detour off the trail and well worth a visit. Our maps will direct you to the best cycling route from the trail to the Old Factory Corner.
To finish, Eddyline and McCashins Breweries are both close to Nelson and perfectly located for a celebration drink after a day well-spent!
Bike hire not included.**
What’s the route like?
- Easy off-road cycling, steadily downhill with very few uphill sections
- Distance from Kohatu to The Gentle Cycling Company is 50km (without detours)
- Diverse and well-liked route with many great experiences and good cafes along the way
Adventure Tips
Bring a powerful light
The Spooner’s Tunnel is long and pitch dark; a strong headlamp or bike light is essential for safety.
Prepare for mostly downhill terrain
The ride from Kohatu to Nelson descends steadily with few uphill stretches—perfect for an easier day on the bike.
Check weather before you go
Nelson weather can shift quickly; bring rain gear and layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Plan time for food stops
Pause in Wakefield or Brightwater to sample local cafés or grab a snack; detours to breweries add a flavorful highlight.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kereru (native wood pigeon) often spotted in forested sections near the tunnel.
- Occasional sightings of New Zealand fantails fluttering through native bush.
History
Spooner’s Tunnel was once a key railway route for transporting timber and goods before its closure and repurposing as a cycle trail.
Conservation
The Gentle Cycling Company promotes minimal impact riding and supports local conservation efforts to preserve native forest and wildlife habitats along the trail.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Nelson
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Bike headlight
Crucial for safely passing through the long, dark Spooner’s Tunnel.
Helmet
Protects your head on varied terrain and public trails.
Layered clothing
Enables you to adjust warmth and ventilation through variable weather and tunnel conditions.
all specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the multi-hour ride.
all specific