Trail StatusKnow before you go what to expect.
Trail Status Updates
The latest trail status updates for Mountains to Sea - Ngā Ara Tūhono Trails, and other bike rides in the Ruapehu and Whanganui regions.
Welcome to a special part of the world full of stunning adventures. Do take care and follow our be prepared information and our Frequently Asked Questions
Scroll down to check status for each trail section.
Most sections of Mountains to Sea remain open all year but please make safe sensible decisions when weather forecasts are extremely wet. Papa country can be a challenge - discover more information here.
Trail Sections Updates - Details
Mangapurua - Winter Closure
While we are still working on maintenance of the trail, at this time of the year its safer for our teams and you for us to close between Johnstons and the Bridge to Nowhere. We'll be back open better than ever in October.
🚨 Heads-up for Jan 2026 Whanganui River Access Update 🛶
If you're planning your 2026 ride, please note a temporary closure on the Whanganui River due to Tira Hoe Waka – a sacred annual journey led by iwi of the river.
🗓️ No jetboat or river access between Mangapurua Landing and Pipiriki on Sunday 11 & Monday 12 January 2026. This customary event is protected under the Te Awa Tupua Settlement Act, and the river is reserved exclusively for the waka and support crews during this time.
👉 Riders will need to use the alternative route via the Ruatiti Valley and follow the Waipuna Cycleway Connector Ride back to Pipiriki. This detour ensures you remain on course while respecting this important kaupapa.
✅ Please plan ahead and allow extra time.
Thanks for your understanding and support of this culturally significant journey.
Please note the weather in the Mangapurua Valley may differ from this.
This link may give a more accurate forecast. Yr.No - Mangapurura
Significant work has been completed on rebuilding this trail to a new standard including widening, surfacing and new bridges. Note the new sections of the track are still soft, and can be muddy after rain.
Oio Road up to Whakahoro (Blue Duck Station) is living up to its papa routes and a bit rough but dry, and similarly the road section from Blue Duck Cafe to Depot Hut is also a bit rutted due to a combination of papa and traffic. (We are working with RDC on a plan for a more resilient solution)
If you are unsure of any section – take a moment to dismount and walk.
Fishers Track | Upgrades Complete
The team have worked hard to upgrade the slippery sections of the trail, and widen and resurface the bottom section closer to Retaruke (along with undertaking water controls). It's now riding sweet!
Enjoy the new trail surface and don't forget to book your return shuttle with Megan and the Dempseys team!
Phase One officially opens on Thursday 19th June.
Initially the trail is open through to the Mangatururu suspension bridge (6km one way). There is no exit, you will need to return back to Matapuna Rd, Horopito. The trail is still receiving the final finessing, so please be kind, ride gently and let us know if you see something we've missed!
Over the next six weeks we will complete the remaining sections and then the trail will be open with an entry/exit via the trail at Pōkākā Road.
The first section of the trail, a loop is open (from 1/11/24). The top section of this loop up to and including the 19m bridge is still being completed to ensure this is safe for all to ride. This will happen over the next couple of months.
Please follow all signs.
Stage II up to and including MUAC, Tūroa has been planned with permissions applied for. Funding has yet to be secured and this process is underway.
🚴♀️ Ohakune Old Coach Road – Surface Upgrade Underway
Ohakune Old Coach Road is a much-loved historic trail, famous for its original cobbled sections and rich heritage. Over time, those iconic cobbles have become more pronounced, and general wear and tear has made some parts of the trail a bit less smooth and flowing than we’d like.
We’re excited to share that surface improvement work is now underway on the skyline section of the trail!
🔧 What’s Happening:
The Department of Conservation team is carrying out upgrades to improve rider experience on the more technical skyline stretch. Access to the site will be via the end of Clydes Access Road (nearest the track entrance), which will be used for material delivery.
What You Need to Know:
✅ The trail remains open for both walkers and riders — enjoy the ride!
🚫 No vehicle access or parking at the end of Clydes Access Road during the upgrade period. If you typically drop off or collect passengers there, please plan alternative arrangements. Signage will be in place.
👷♂️ Work is active now — you may encounter some activity along the track over the next few weeks.
We’re also installing clearer wayfinding signage along the trail to enhance navigation and safety.
Thanks for your patience while we make Ohakune Old Coach Road even better for everyone — with smoother flow and a safer, more enjoyable ride!
Need help booking?
Our local i-Site can help you plan and book your trip.
OR Book directly with Trail Partners and discover the Mountains to Sea's cycle trail journeys for yourself.
NGĀ ARA TŪHONO TRUST 50232641
NZBN: 9429052786808
