The cycle trail links from Horopito to either Ruatiti Rd end or from National Park Village to Whakahoro are the connecting sections that riders may want to complete in order to officially ride the entire Mountains to Sea cycle trail.
The two options connect up to the next stage toeither Ruatiti Rd end through the Mangapurua valley or Kaiwhakauka track from Whakahoro. Both options follow well graded country roads on a mixture of gravel and tar seal.
From Horopito turn onto SH4 and head south toward Middle Rd for approximately 1km, then turn right into Middle Rd and follow the well graded road through to the Raetihi/Ohura Road which should be followed all the way through to the Ruatiti Domain.
You can either camp overnight at the Ruatiti Domain, a scenic campground well situated next to the Manganui-o-te-Ao river, which has toilets, barbecues and running water. Or consider one of the many accommodation options available for mountain bikers in the Ruatiti valley.
Approximate distance from Horopito to the Ruatiti Road end is 34km.
To get from Horopito, transport options should be pre-arranged for transfer along SH4 to National Park Village and onto Fishers Track. Local transport operators offer many options for carrying passengers and bikes between links. Fishers Track travels inland along Retaruke Rd then onto Oio Road before descending down into the Whanganui river valley at Whakahoro. Fishers Track is a surprisingly scenic route, boasting spectacular views through farm land. The ride is mostly downhill to the monument making it an easy ride.
Private and public accommodation options are available in Whakahoro. For further information see www.visitruapehu.com or visit your local i-SITE.
Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail - Nga Ara Tuhono
Day 2 Horopito to Ruatiti or National Park Village toWhakahoro
