The whole of New Zealand went into Level 4 Lockdown when Covid-19 was found to be in the community in August 2021. This meant that we were no longer able to ride in a group or to call in to cafes. My husband and I decided that we would aim to ride this approx. 30kms Napier-Cross Country Drain loop daily, alternating between clockwise and anti-clockwise. It’s been wonderful to observe the start of spring and to see the daily changes along the route. We have also been very lucky with the weather as it has been mostly fine.

The route in brief: From Napier, head south past Napier Boys High School, to Te Awa. Join the Cross Country Drain Trail. Join the trail alongside the Hawkes Bay Expressway. Head towards Anderson Park, then Westminster Ave to Park Island. Join the Water Ride at the southern entrance. Head out to Westshore then back to Napier via Ahuriri.

Distance: approx 30kms

Detailed directions and map can be downloaded here.

Author: Helen Wenley