about the area

national cycleway

The Old Coach Road links a number of fascinating pieces of New Zealand's rail heritage in a journey through a spectacular part of Tongariro National Park.

A short drive from National Park Village takes you to Horopito where the trail starts on its 14 km descent to the Ohakune Railway Station. At predominantly grade 2, the ride is suitable for most riders traversing some beautiful stands of forest with sweeping views across the district.

Heritage features on the trail include a unique cobbled road, the mighty Taonui and Hapuawhenua Viaducts, a curved tunnel, railway bridge remains and old campsites.

The Old Coach Road formed an integral link between the two railheads at Ohakune and Raurimu between 1906 and 1908, allowing through journeys by horse and coach before the Main Trunk Line was completed.