Important Health & Safety Information for Trail Users

Your safety and enjoyment of our Hurunui Trails is extremely important to us so please read the following carefully.

Hurunui Trails offer a unique experience for riders and walkers by immersing them in some of the most beautiful coastal and inland landscapes that can be found anywhere in New Zealand.  Horses are also allowed on some trails.

  • We advise that all trail users carry a cell phone with them and it is charged in case of an accident.

  • Most of our trails are off road that traverse a variety of natural habitats and private farms and vineyards. Please be aware that at any natural hazards such as tree branches, flax flowers and rocks etc can fall onto the trail. Please report any trail hazards asap here.

 Trail users

  • Please do not overestimate the fitness and capabilities of yourself or other group members. Check the grades and distance of each of our trails and your ability to ride or walk them.

  • Please be aware that cyclists and walkers will travel in both directions and the trail is narrow in some parts. Always keep to the left of the trail, bike at a speed where you can pass other riders safely and be cautious in areas where signage directs you to ‘Slow’.

  • A buddy system should be put in place especially for lone riders. Make sure someone is aware of your intentions to ride one of our trails.

  • Trail users should be self-sufficient and capable of dealing with any enforced stop,
    whether it be caused by a mechanical breakdown or an injury. Always carry water, snacks and a cell phone.

  • Be prepared for all weathers.

  • Incidents or accidents

  •  Details of incidents or accidents on the trail should be emailed as soon as possible after the event here.

Toilet Stops

  • Please check the relevant trail map and be aware of where toilet stops are located. Please respect the natural environment and fragile habitats you are travelling through, and do not use these natural habitats for your ablutions.

Trail Maintenance

  • Please be aware that maintenance teams work on the trail from time to time (pruning, spraying, planting, trap setting and clearing debris) and on the Waipara Valley Trail the trail winds through working farms and vineyards. Please proceed with caution.

  • Stay on and keep to the trail at all times. Please do not veer off the marked trail as much of the trail traverses privately owned land, please respect the privilege the landowners afford trail users.

No dogs on the trail

  • The trail passes through farmland and private homes. Dogs pose a risk to these species and also to other trail users, especially inexperienced riders and children.

Essential “What to Take” Checklist

  • Map of Trail (hard copy or digital)

  • Bike repair kit

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Rain jacket

  • Warm clothing

  • Sand fly repellent

  • Sunblock

  • First aid kit

  • Camera

  • Cellphone

  • Cash