The Māniatoto is criss-crossed by some of the best gravel riding roads in the country. Thousands of kilometres of empty gravel wind around the storied Māniatoto basin and connect it to the wider Central Otago region. 

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The Tiaki Maniototo Trail links these roads with sites where riders can experience the Taiari river and the wetlands of the scroll plain - one of the great natural wonders of New Zealand. Along the way, riders will access information sites featuring will learn about the ecology of the area and the spectacular plants and animals that inhabit it.

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The trial will link riders to gravel riding adventures unparalleled in the country: the fast, lonely roads that cross the Rock and Pillar, Lammermoor and Hawkdun ranges. The Māniatoto is truly the heartland of gravel cycling in New Zealand.

 

The trail will be opened on January 18 2025, on the same day as the second annual Taiari Wai Music festival, held at the Pātearoa school domain, with a friendly ride aimed at all levels of experience. The gravel ride will start and end at the festival site. Riders will have the opportunity to ride our spectacular figure of 8 gravel route around the Māniatoto basin, finishing their ride at the festival site, where some of New Zealand's best folk and bluegrass artists will be performing and the cold beer will be flowing.

 

A selection of fine local food will also be available onsite, as well as kids activities and talks. 

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