Single Trail
Intermediate
7km Up – 3km Down
390m Elevation
The Kaiterau Trail is a one-way intermediate loop ride that takes you part way up Mt Fyffe to the Kaiterau Plateau with spectacular views over the Kaikōura Peninsula.
The Trail is suitable for experienced riders with good intermediate off-road biking skills. A basic mountain bike is required. The trail is suitable for E-bikes.
Brakes must be in good condition and suspension is advised.
The uphill trail is a shared trail. Tramping and trail running are permitted on the uphill trail only. Due to high riding speeds the downhill trail is not safe for walking.
up | ki hunga
From the lower Mt Fyffe carpark at 180m above sea level, the single trail meanders steadily 7 km uphill with a gradient of 3-5 degrees through regenerating bush. Prolific birdlife and view ports along the way make the climb well worth the effort. Beautifully bermed hairpin bends are a feature of the uphill ride. The uphill trail ends at a grassy plateau 570m above sea level.
down | iho
From the Kaiterau Plateau the bike-only downhill single trail swoops and winds through bush to link up with the DOC walking track approximately 20m above the upper Mt Fyffe carpark. Steeply descending bermed bends and pumps are features of the downhill flow trail. The surface is well-packed dirt. There is an exit to the DOC track around the halfway point. Be ready to give way when exiting the trail.
An alternate route down the DOC track is available. Beware of people walking, steep gradients and loose gravel.
DIrections from Kaikōura to Kaiterau and back to Postmans Road where you can either return to Kaikōura or continue on the Kaikōura Trail.
Download Kaiterau Trail Map.
(Includes road directions to trail)
PDF map and cue sheet download.
- Single trail through bush
- Ride from Kaikōura or park at the trail end carpark
- Quiet country roads
- Mountain, ocean and peninsula views
- User friendly climbing grade of 3-5 degrees
- Bush and birdlife
- Mixed Surface - single trail, gravel, tar
- Grade. Some sections of single trail are intermediate grade. Be aware of narrow sections, root and rock obstacles and overhanging branches. Ride within your ability.
- Be considerate of walkers
- Take all litter with you
- Protect and respect our wildlife, plants and trees
- Because there are multiple entry and exit points along the trail, care and attention is needed to ensure you follow trail markers
- No water on trail
- Food and beverages at Koura Bay Lodge
- Kaikoura information
- Bicycle service and repairs at Coastal Sports
