Mountain Bike Trails in Rangiora

Blowhard Track

Blowhard Track starts at the end of Maori Reserve Road near the Boys Brigade Camp. The track begins as a 4WD track and narrows to a single track as it climbs steeply to the summit of Mt Richardson (1047 m).There are excellent views of both Lees Valley and the Canterbury Plains along the ridgeline. Return the same way with a fast downhill ride. Alternatively, to avoid the slog of a ride up to the top of Mt Richardson, carry your bike up the Mt Richardson track from the end of Glentui Bush Rd. Best riden after a week of dry weather as it can be slick in the wet. Note: The lower section is steep and can be rough in places which may require some bike carrying. Bikes are not permitted on the Richardson and the By-pass tracks which also lead from the summit or ridgeline to the Glentui Picnic Area. This is also a very popular horse-trekking route, and mountain-bike riders must give way to both horse riders and walkers.

Coopers Creek and Link Track

This well-formed track initially crosses cleared private land with views of the plains and surrounding hills. It enters the beech forest before a turn off to Coopers Creek. The track joins onto the Wharfedale Track not far from the View Hill Car Park.

Mt Oxford Track

Generally thought of as a tramping track, this is also a favourite for mountain bikers who are after some hike a bike with steep and technical riding. Attempt only during fine weather and after a long dry spell. The tops are above the bush line and are prone to poor visibility. Mt Oxford Track takes you from Coopers Creek car park to the summit of Mt Oxford. From the car park, cross Coopers Creek and follow the marked track to the bridge over the east branch of Coopers Creek. Climb gradually through scattered pockets of beech forest, and then more steeply through snow tussock. From the summit of Mt Oxford (1364 m) there are good views of the Canterbury Plains and into Lees Valley. From the summit follow the north-west ridge down to the topo point 1130. Continue to follow the main ridge south-west through the forest down to the Wharfedale Track.

Rakahuri MTB Park

Really easy trail. Can get really muddy sometimes. You also have the option of taking the trail further all the the way to Waikuku beach or the other way to the Airfield. Good for practising things such as cornering and endurance. It is one way so be careful about that.

Rakahuri Trail - Rakahuri west loop

Rakahuri Trail - Rangiora to Hillcrest Road

Rakahuri Trail - SH1 to Rangiora

The Rakahuri Trail is a fun, two way shared trail that runs alongside the Ashley/Rakahuri River. Within the trail there is a dedicated mountain bike park which has areas of one way riding, offering you the freedom of knowing you have the trail to yourself. Enjoy the twists, turns and moguls. A great ride for the family and individual. This trail is being continually developed and maintained by North Canterbury Cycling with ECan. Viewing:Pine forest blocks, mixed stands of exotic trees including willows and poplar, and pockets of native vegetation that are gradually being restored and enhanced. Ashley River and Ashley Estuary. Please check Environment Canterbury’s website for track updates here.

Rakahuri Trail - SH1 to Waikuki Beach

The Rakahuri Trail is a fun, two way shared trail that runs alongside the Ashley/Rakahuri River. Within the trail there is a dedicated mountain bike park which has areas of one way riding, offering you the freedom of knowing you have the trail to yourself. Enjoy the twists, turns and moguls. A great ride for the family and individual.

Tarapiroe Walkway

Link up to the Ashley Village. Pop in and have lunch at the local establishment.

Townshend Track

About half an hour after leaving Wharfedale Hut, the track opens out and follows a 4WD track over grazed flats coming out at Lees Valley Road. This track crosses the Townshend River twice and may be impassable if river levels are high. There is a flood route between Shifton and Storm Streams that may be used in emergencies – it is not well marked but avoids the need to cross the Townshend River. It is not suitable for mountain bikes.

Tūhaitara Coastal Park - Waikuku Beach to Woodend Beach

A shared walking and cycling track. This track has been recently deforested and regeneration planting is underway. Lookouts are signposted along the way to afford you views of the Tūtaepatu Lagoon and mountains.

Wharfedale Track

This is an old stock route formed in 1879. It's overall gradient is generally okay, but as the weather takes its toll, the track has been weathered into a fun mountain bike track with exposed roots, fords and plenty of rocks. From the car park, follow the trail through beech forest to the saddle approx. 2 hours away. Turn around here and head back for a mostly downhill run at a good Intermediate grade ride. Or, continue on to and beyond the Wharfedale Hut for a much tougher (with some walking) ride (about 5 hours return).NB: The Wharfedale is a grade harder when wet.