Cycle the Te Ara Ōtākaro riverside trail following the Avon/Ōtākaro River. Explore the banks of the river on a mix of shingle and closed roads spanning from the city center to New Brighton. Close inspection will reveal the house boundaries of the pre-quake settlement by following the trees and other plants that used to border each home. Finish with lunch at Dune Cafe on the beachfront and a soak in the hotpools.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12 km one way, 24 km round trip
Rental Time: 5 hour/1 day
Key Features: Avon Red Zone, Avon River, New Brighton Beach
Suitable for: city bikes, city e-bikes
Models available: City Bike Cruiser, Cube Cross Diamond, Cube Cross Trapeze, Felt Versa
From the conjunction of Fitzgerald Ave and the Avon River, follow the river to venture through the Avon Red Zone. Much of the latter half of the ride will be on New Brighton Road, which then becomes Owles Terrace. When you reach Owles Terrace, head east to arrive at New Brighton Beach. This pathway takes about 12 kilometres one way, making it appropriate for a 5-hour or 1-day rental.