Ride Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono

Just a short hop across the Tasman, step into another world of outdoor adventure, cultural stories, and warm manaakitanga (hospitality).

A Journey Like Nowhere Else on Earth

In just a few hours, you could be riding through landscapes and stories you’ll never find in Australia. The Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride carries you from the volcanic slopes of Mt Ruapehu, through two National Parks — including UNESCO World Heritage Tongariro — into lush forests, along heritage tramways, and beside the legendary Whanganui River.

The Whanganui Awa (River) itself holds legal personhood — a world first recognising it as a living entity. To ride alongside it is to immerse yourself in one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most meaningful landscapes.

This is a trail where nature, culture, and adventure are inseparable. You’ll cycle through volcanic terrain, hear stories shared by mana whenua, and be welcomed by the manaakitanga of Ruapehu and Whanganui communities.

So Close — Yet Truly Another World

✈️ Only a Few Hours Away – Fly direct from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, and grab a rental car or connect via Air Chathams from Auckland to Whanganui, and be riding the same day.
🌋 Landscapes Unlike Home – Beneath an active volcano, through rainforest, across cobblestones, and into valleys rich in history.
🌍 World Heritage – Cycle Tongariro National Park, recognised globally for cultural and natural significance.
🌊 A Living River – The Whanganui Awa, with personhood status and deep Māori identity.
🚴 Adventure Your Way – From easy day rides to the 320km epic journey.
🎨 UNESCO City of Design – Finish in Whanganui, alive with galleries, street art, artisan food, and heritage charm.
🤝 Manaakitanga – Experience genuine hospitality and community warmth at every turn.

From Mountain Peaks to the Tasman Sea

The Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride links together unforgettable landscapes and stories — across dual World Heritage parks, alongside a living river, and into a UNESCO Creative City.

🏔️ Te Ara Mangawhero – From alpine slopes of Mt Ruapehu, ride through bush tramways and volcanic streams.
🛤️ Ohakune Old Coach Road – Cobblestones, soaring viaducts, and rail heritage.
🌿 Te Hangāruru – Regenerating forests, timber tramlines, and wide views of Ruapehu.
🌉 Bridge to Nowhere – Iconic symbol of Aotearoa’s pioneer history.
🚤 Whanganui River Journey – Jetboat through a majestic valley as part of your ride.
🌊 Tasman Sea Finish – Arrive in Whanganui, New Zealand’s UNESCO City of Design, before the river meets the dramatic black-sand coast.