Our neighbours from ‘over the Hill’ have been working hard on an exciting project, The Pikikirunga Trail, and Ross Maley (KMBP Manager) was given a guided tour today of this soon-to-be-completed trail and the impressive progress that’s being achieved.

The Golden Bay Mountain Bike Club broke ground in early 2023 on this trail and is now about 600m away from the end of the first stage - a grade 3 descent from the Takaka Hill saddle to Horseshoe Bend.

Project Manager Bruce Chick very kindly led us down the completed section, with brief stops to take in the superb views before we rolled into native bush sections carved out of what was a rock-strewn slope. Stop for a minute in these spots, and the abundant birdlife becomes quickly obvious—not just the birdsong, but the Robin (Toutouwai) will come right down to you for a close-up visit.

The ride itself is a total blast and, as a Grade 3, will bring a huge smile to the faces of riders at all levels.

Our hats are off to Bruce, KP, Fraser and all the volunteers who have created something very special not just for Golden Bay but the wider area.

Thanks to Bruce for the tour - we’ll be back (often!).