The Takapau Loop, from Takapau to Norsewood return, explores the country roads of Central Hawkes Bay. It’s another E-bike ride where you need to have a fully charged battery. The scenery is interesting and quirky in places. The ride out has several uphills and we have encountered strong, battery depleting, headwinds. The return journey has more downhills and if you are a lucky, tailwinds. Scroll down to view an optional extra side loop.
Look to your left, between Takapau and Ormondville on a long curved uphill, to see the historic rail viaduct. Stop at Ormondville to visit the railway station, the old petrol station and the Church of the Epiphany. Distance approx 40 kms.
Start Point: Takapau Opp Shop
Route:
Head southwest along the Takapau-Ormondville Road – Turn right into Ormondville-Te Uri Road – at crossroads, turn right into Norsewood-Ormondville Road – At T-junction, turn right into Hovding Street – Turn left into Thor Street – Turn right into Coronation Street – (coffee stop Café Norsewood) – Return along Thor Street – Turn left at T-junction into Hovding Street – next turn right into Arthur Road – Turn left into Te Whiti Road – Turn right at T-junction into Kopua Road – Turn left into Takapau-Ormondville Road to return to start.
Public toilets: cnr Sydney/Charlotte Streets, Takapau and next door to Café Norsewood
Est. Distance: 40Kms (plus extra for side trips)
Additional Hazards: Descents and ascents. Country Roads
Cafe: Norsewood Cafe
April 2021. There is reserve called the Wop Wops in Lower Norsewood. There has been a big clean up and visitors can go eel spotting. Might be worth a quick look. 
Route & notes by Charlie Davey Ebike Social Riders Hawkes Bay
April 2019
March 2020
April 2023
For those who enjoy a bit more distance (4kms), a recent addition to the loop has been found by Charlie Davey.
Soon after leaving Takapau, take the first left – Paulsen Road. Turn right into Rangitoto Road. Turn left at the T junction to rejoin Takapau-Ormondville Road. The extension has a gentle climb, a short stretch of gravel followed by a sealed sweeping downhill.
Hawkes Bay Ebike Rides 