The Pakihi Track was first opened around 1906 as part of a rough track connecting Motu to Opotiki via the Otara Valley. From the early-1990s, it slowly gained a reputation as an epic mountain bike ride. After a massive restoration, the Pakihi Track reopened in 2012 as part of the Motu Trails. Today it's a beautiful journey through lush forest.
🚵 For riding Pakihi Track is one-way from Motu Road only. For walking or running you can go both directions. Always be prepared to meet other trail users and track workers, and pass with care. If you’re an experienced rider with sound skills, the Pakihi Track is a gem. However note for cycling it is a grade 4/advanced track. You are 10 km or more from the nearest sealed road, with no mobile phone coverage. There are many exposed drops to the side. The track gets continual gravel and rockfall, regular slips, and windfalls. The track is cleared regularly but you will get places with debris on the track, and you may need to carry your bike. This is the nature of the terrain, which is steep, rocky, and prone to heavy rainfall.
👣 Being a riding trail, the Pakihi Track is usually a straightforward & pleasant 7 hour / 20 km walk, but it can get messed up by storm / heavy rain damage. If in doubt see the links below. Be prepared to meet cyclists, and if you do, tuck towards the uphill side of the track.
https://motutrails.co.nz/experience/explore-the-trails/pakihi-track or e-mail jim@motutrails.co.nz
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