Frequently Asked Questions

Be Prepared - Check out the questions that we are most often asked...

How much does it cost to ride the Trail?

There is no cost to you to ride the actual trail as it is free. The trail surface and the major infrastructure is managed by the Department of Conservation.  All of the information signage, seating, gangers sheds, native plantings, shelters, picnic areas and other projects are the on going work of the Rail Trail Trust. If you would like to contribute, please purchase a Rail Trail Passport or make a donation which would be greatly received and invested back into the trail. 

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Can I ride the Trail as an independent traveller?

Yes, but please make sure you plan your trip using our map and the Plan page on our webpage. Please also read the Trail Conditions page. Our website has a 'Plan your Trip Guide' and some suggested itineraries you may wish to consider.

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What level of fitness is required to complete the Trail?

This is a Grade 1 Cycle Trail, which is the easiest level cycling experience, with no tight bends or steep inclines.  If you or some of your group have not been on a bike for some time it would be a good idea to take a few weeks to get bike fit. The more accustomed you are to a bike seat the more you will enjoy the trip. :-)

There are plenty of places to stop and read about the history along the trail and take your photographs. The trail is a compacted gravel pathway although in some short sections you may experience some loose stones.

The trail is wide enough for cyclists to ride side by side if they wish and there is no congestion at all as you enjoy a wonderful experience amongst spectacular scenery.

There are e-bikes , kid tows and adaptive bikes available for hire from the Cycle Operators.

  • Fitness and Gear
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How long does it take?

The Trail is 152km long. How far you travel in one day will depend on your level of fitness. When cycling the average speed for most of us is 10km per hour, many people allow 3 - 5 days. The average walking pace is 4 - 6km per hour, allow at least 6 days.

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Is there water available along the Trail?

Take plenty of water with you, and purchase more along the way. Be sure to fill your water bottle at your place of accommodation before you start your trip each day. There are some towns along the way where water can be restricted in the summer months.

There is a tap at the Ranfurly and Oturehua Station sites.  There is also a tap at Hyde close to the picnic table.

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Can I use an E-bike on the Trail?

Yes, power-assisted cycles (not exceeding 300watts) are permitted on the trail. Some of the more mature riders enjoy these as it makes the experience a lot easier.

  • Etiquette
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Do I have to wear a cycle helmet on the Trail?

Yes, you need to wear a helmet.  It is compulsory for all cyclists on New Zealand roads to wear cycle helmets.  In legal terms the definition of a road includes a street, a motorway, a beach and a place to which the public have access whether as of right or not.

  • Fitness and Gear
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Can I ride only specific sections of the Trail?

Yes - the Trail has many entry and exit points and can be experienced as a ride from Station to Station, see the map for Station sites. As you will not be completing the whole trail make sure you include a section with tunnels and viaducts, so either the Poolburn Gorge or the section between Daisybank and Hyde.

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If I only have a day what section should I ride?

We suggest a section that would include viaducts and tunnels.  So a section that would include Prices Creek or the Poolburn Gorge.  But do check out the popular itineraries section of our website for more information on one day trips.

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Who does the Trail?

Is the Otago Central Rail Trail really “your thing?” Ask anyone on the Trail why they are there and you may get a different answer each time. 

The Trail is suitable for any age (as long as you are reasonably fit). Lots of retired people, looking for an adventure, are getting back on bikes, some are including just parts of the Trail in their new Campervan lifestyle. Doing parts (or all) of the Trail can also be a great family experience, and camping grounds can add to the whole adventure. Doing the Trail can be a unique way to celebrate a special occasion. School groups include the Trail as an outdoor learning experience. Social clubs often organise “outings with a difference” (add a quirky theme, dress up for fun, etc.) The Trail is perfect for walkers wanting to recover their health – (it gets the “Heart Tick”) and it is an ideal way for fitness and sports groups to add some novelty to their regime as well as build team spirit. The Trail may seem easy to some, but “super athletes” can test their endurance and head off into the hills on their mountain bikes.

The Trail is long enough to allow plenty of moments of peace and solitude and “time-out” for those with a busy lifestyle. The more arty or spiritual amongst us may just be inspired to pick up a brush or a pen or a camera to capture a part of this “World of Difference.”  And of course many overseas visitors also want to experience the real heartland of New Zealand.

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How do I get back to my vehicle once I have completed the Trail?

There are a number of options for transporting you and/or your luggage along the trail or back to your car.  Most of our Tour Planners will provide this services and they are listed under the transport section on our website.  Please use the link below for their contact details.

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Is there parking at the start of the Trail in Clyde?

There is a large car-parking area at the start of the Trail which is the Clyde Railhead site on Springvale Road.

Parking here is at your own risk.

  

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Is there an app that shows our progress along the Trail in real time?

The Great Rides App has the ability to track progress along the Trail in real time.  You can download the app using a link at the bottom of our home page or by following the link www.greatridesapp.com

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Is the Trail open all year round?

The Trail is open all year round and a great experience in all seasons.  Most ride the trail during the months September to May as Winters can be cold in Central Otago and there are a number of businesses along the trail that take a break in the winter months.  If your ride in Winter dress for the occasion and check availability of accommodation and food providers before you start your journey.

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