Looking to ride the Spooner’s Tunnel? Book your transfer to Kohatu then ride through the Spooner’s Tunnel and back to Nelson. Our bikes or yours. And don’t forget your lights – the tunnel is really long and really dark!

Duration

Approx. 45 mins shuttle
4-6 hours cycling

About

The Spooner’s Tunnel trip is a marvellous day ride and fast becoming a customer favourite. We will transfer you from our base in Tahunanui (or from Nelson) to the Flat Rock Cafe at Kohatu to start the ride. From here it’s a beautiful 50 km off-road trail back to Nelson and it’s pretty much all downhill. The route is very scenic, and you will ride through some of the prettiest rural landscapes in Nelson.

The Spooner’s Tunnel is a disused rail tunnel almost 1.4km long. Once through the tunnel, highlights include rural views from mountains to the sea. You will ride over swing bridges, through native forest, past hop gardens and lush farmland dotted with historic farm buildings. The villages of Wakefield and Brightwater both have tasty places to eat.

With a detour you could also visit a winery or brewery. The closest wineries to the trail are Te Mania and Richmond Plains which share a cellar door near the Old Factory Corner. Check their opening hours if planning to visit. The food cluster at Old Factory Corner is a short detour off the trail and well worth a visit. Our maps will direct you to the best cycling route from the trail to the Old Factory Corner.

To finish, Eddyline and McCashins Breweries are both close to Nelson and perfectly located for a celebration drink after a day well-spent!

Bike hire not included.**

What’s the route like?

• Easy off-road cycling, steadily downhill with very few uphill sections
• Distance from Kohatu to The Gentle Cycling Company is 50km (without detours)
• Diverse and well-liked route with many great experiences and good cafes along the way