Cycling the Coast & Wineries with Napier City Bike Hire
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–5 hours including stops
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels due to flat terrain and choice of route lengths
Overview
Pedal scenic coastal trails and wetlands from Napier City Bike Hire, ending your ride with tastings at standout Hawke’s Bay wineries. Choose a relaxed 16km ride or a fuller 30km loop that weaves between ocean views and historic Ahuriri.
Waterways to Wineries
Come and explore the beautiful Napier waterfront and nearby wineries
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a self-guided cycling adventure through the historic Ahuriri and scenic wetlands, culminating in visits to up to three stunning wineries. Choose between a leisurely 16km or a more extensive 30km route, enjoying flat terrain, delightful wine tastings, and picturesque coastal views along the way.
Self-guided, including transport, this is the perfect cycle ride to explore the historic Ahuriri and nearby wetlands before arriving to some stunning wineries. The riding is all flat and easy, you can take 16km or 30km route and visit up to 3 wineries.
Timing
Duration - 5 hours approximately Start time - indicative only, bikes will be ready for you at the store opening time. Departure from our shop is at your leisure, we recommend to leave between 9.30-11.00 AM. For a shorter 16km route allow 1.5 hours of relaxed riding, for the 30km option allow 2.5-3 hours, plus time to spend in the wineries.
Return shuttle - 3pm from Church Road winery (back in Napier 3.15pm)
Includes
Every hire includes bike as specified (electric or regular), helmet, lock, bag, map with friendly advice, transport from the ride and mechanical assistance for a hassle free hire.
(Our e-bikes come in XXS-XL sizes, minimum height is 140cm. We don't have age restriction as long as riders fit the bike and those bellow 18 years old are accompanied with a guardian. Child pricing - 16 years of age or younger on regular bike.)
About
Starting just across the road from our shop, you will ride along the coastal trail to the historic area of Ahuriri. Here you can visit one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. Choose to continue the longer way along a stunning coast to visit Crab Farm winery and reconnect to the shorter route in the protected wetlands that are home to a number of bird species. And from there it's just a short ride until you reach Mission Estate Winery and Church Road Winery. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch here before the shuttle bus arrives to transport you back to Napier.
Visit
Crab Farm Winery - open Thu-Sun, restaurant and cellar door, booking recommended.
Mission Estate - open Mon-Sun, restaurant and cellar door, booking recommended.
Church Road - open Thu-Mon, restaurant and cellar door, booking recommended.
If you wish to have lunch at one of the wineries, we recommend making a booking as they are very popular (essential on weekends). Please get in touch with us if you would like help planning times.
Cruise ship passengers
Start time is indicative only, bikes will be ready for you at the store opening time, which on a cruise ship day is as early as the ship arrival. Return shuttle will be advised on the day to suit your departure time. We'll make sure you will be back comfortably on time.
Adventure Tips
Choose the route to match your pace
Opt for the 16km loop if you prefer a relaxed ride with ample time to savour winery stops; the 30km route adds coastal scenery but requires more stamina.
Book winery tastings in advance
Reserve spots at Crab Farm, Mission Estate, and Church Road to ensure availability, especially on weekends when they are busiest.
Use provided mechanical support
Napier City Bike Hire offers mechanical assistance—call or stop by if you experience any bike issues for a hassle-free day.
Watch for local birdlife in wetlands
Take moments to observe native species like the royal spoonbill; stay on marked paths to protect sensitive habitats.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Royal spoonbill
- Pūkeko (purple swamp hen)
History
Ahuriri was once a whaling village dating back to the 19th century, now transformed into Napier’s vibrant waterfront district.
Conservation
The wetlands along the bike ride are protected habitats supporting native species, with efforts focused on maintaining trail access while minimizing ecological impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Napier
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Helmet
Provided by Napier City Bike Hire; always wear for safety on public roads and trails.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help prevent sunburn during exposed coastal sections.
summer specific
Water bottle
Keep hydrated especially in warmer months or on longer rides.
Light rain jacket
Useful for occasional showers and variable weather common in cooler seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific