A group of keen mountain bikers has extolled the virtues and beauty of the new Mountains to the Sea trail from Mt Ruapehu through to Wanganui and the North Mole.
The group, with members from Taupo, Gisborne and Christchurch, arrived in Wanganui last week and said their trip had beennothing short of wonderful. Even thinking about having to return to work was agonising.
They said anyone planning to bike the trail was assured of the ultimate, fantastic experience.
A three-day journey, or hikoi, over the entire length of the trail begins Thursday.
Cyclists of all ages and abilities have been encouraged to join all or any part of the three-day trip.
Wanganui Mayor Annette Main said this was a rare and incredible experience along probably one of the most beautiful trails in New Zealand.
The Mountains to Sea trail is a regional initiative involving Ruapehu and Wanganui district councils, iwi, community groups and DoC. The ride crosses two national parks and covers about 245km.
