I can’t find the words to express this unique sensation of perceiving the slightest vibrations of this colossal structure while pedalling more than fifty metres above the river. Absolutely stunning!
The Surprising Timber Bike Trail
New Zealand Adventure Published on 2019-03-24 Revised on 2024-03-25
The real challenge begins. Although we’re used to riding up mountains, here it’s more uphill than usual. The deeper we ascend into this lush forest, the more we wonder at the treasures of the past that line the 85 km Timber Trail.
Once the kingdom of lumberjacks, Pureora Forest Park still conceals some curious relics. For example, we are amazed to discover a circular path that allowed the tramway of the time to cross natural obstacles with the help of bridges and a curved tunnel.
But the most impressive part is undoubtedly the crossing of the eight suspension bridges. The Mangatukutuku Bridge (above) is almost 90 metres long. Not the most imposing on the Timber Trail, but the most photogenic!
Thanks to the feva seat system, Lucas gets a front-row seat to the adventure! Extremely practical for children aged two to four, this lightweight seat is relatively easy to install, with straps that can be adjusted to fit almost any bike.
Most cyclists cover these 85 km in less than two days. For us, against the clock and with our loaded bikes, it took four days.
Having reached the top of the Timber Trail, we then begin an exciting 11 km descent!
At several hundred square kilometres, the Pureora Forest is one of the largest remaining stretches of untouched native forest on the North Island. North Island. In addition to its lush vegetation, this paradise contains crystal-clear rivers and attracts numerous species of birds.
At the very end of our adventure (the official start, in fact), we come across a wooden sculpture, pou whenua, which reminds us the importance of this sacred land for the Māoris.
