Key Takeaways
- Over half a million trips have been logged on Tauranga’s most popular off-road trails in the last 12 months.
- The 3.6km Marine Parade Coastal Pathway at Mount Maunganui is the city’s busiest trail, with over 213,000 cyclists passing the automated counter near Banks Ave since the start of last summer.
- Tourism Bay of Plenty has released a new 24-page cycle trails booklet, featuring 13 scenic trails and three mountain biking areas across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.
- Cycling is an ideal year-round activity, and the trails provide a great way for locals and visitors to explore the region’s heritage and natural environment.
- Off-road trails provide safe spaces for families to enjoy quality time outdoors, and are also used for commuting, school runs, or trips to local parks.
Introduction to Tauranga’s Cycle Trails
Tauranga’s off-road trails have become increasingly popular, with cyclists logging over half a million trips in the last 12 months. According to Tourism Bay of Plenty, daily counts show that trails at Kulim Park, Waikareao Estuary, Matua Saltmarsh, and Gordon Carmichael Reserve have maintained steady usage during the last three years. The city’s busiest trail is the 3.6km Marine Parade Coastal Pathway at Mount Maunganui, which opened in 2024 and winds through the dunes beside New Zealand’s most popular beach. This trail has seen an impressive number of cyclists, with over 213,000 passing the automated counter near Banks Ave since the start of last summer.
Popular Trails and Usage
For those seeking a quieter ride, the unsealed eastern trail at the Kōpūrererua Valley urban wetland has become a popular choice, recording over 21,000 cyclists in the same period. The relatively new 3km Pāpāmoa Coastal Reserve pathway has also become a favorite among locals and visitors, enabling cyclists to travel to and from Te Ara o Wairākei (the Pāpāmoa waterways) and nearby Pāpāmoa Beach. The automated counters on most cycle trails, monitored by the Tauranga City Council, provide valuable data to inform current projects and future upgrades, as well as support funding applications by external parties.
The Benefits of Cycling Trails
Cycling is an ideal year-round activity, and the trails provide a great way for locals and visitors to explore the region’s heritage and natural environment. According to Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan, "With trails from Waihī Beach to Paengaroa and everything in between, there’s a trail to suit every age and ability." Off-road trails also provide safe spaces for families to enjoy quality time outdoors, while others use them for commuting, school runs, or trips to local parks. As Tauranga City Council team leader of engineering services Karen Hay notes, "People can have a social catch-up and exercise at the same time."
Accessing Cycle Trail Information
For those interested in exploring Tauranga’s cycle trails, Tourism Bay of Plenty has released a new 24-page cycle trails booklet, featuring 13 scenic trails and three mountain biking areas across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty. Printed copies of the booklet are available at isite visitor centres, while online maps and digital copies can be found at bayofplentynz.com/experiences/cycle-trails or via the Explore Bay of Plenty app. With this wealth of information, locals and visitors can easily plan their next cycling adventure and experience the best of Tauranga’s natural beauty and heritage.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Tauranga’s off-road trails have become a beloved resource for locals and visitors alike, providing a safe and enjoyable space for cycling, socializing, and exploring the region’s natural environment. With the release of the new cycle trails booklet and the continued monitoring of automated counters, the city is well-positioned to support the growth of cycling as a popular recreational activity. As the region continues to develop and expand its trail network, it is likely that Tauranga will remain a top destination for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.
