Last updated June 2026
Embark on the Beach Loop, a guided railbike tour along disused railway tracks in Gisborne, New Zealand. This 32 km return journey offers a half-day coastal experience suitable for riders seeking scenic ocean views, historic tunnels, and bush-clad valleys. The ride takes approximately 3.5 hours and is available on standard railbikes or e-bikes. Participants meet at Coop Road, Muriwai, about 25 minutes from central Gisborne, for a safety briefing before departure.
Practical Information
| Distance | 32 km return |
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate fitness required for standard railbikes; e-bikes available |
| Price | Standard railbike $130 per person; e-bike $155 per person |
| Meeting point | Coop Road, Muriwai |
| Age & weight limit | 18 years and over; under 130 kg |
| Bookings | Via railbikes.nz; bring own refreshments |
About the Beach Loop
The Beach Loop follows a section of the former Napier to Gisborne railway line, now used exclusively for railbike tours. Riders travel through farmland, cross bridges, pass through a 1.5 km tunnel that takes about seven minutes to cycle, and reach a scenic picnic spot overlooking the ocean. The route combines coastal vistas with rural landscapes and bush-clad valleys.
Standard railbikes are tandem designs that require no steering or balancing, making the experience accessible while still providing a moderate workout. E-bikes offer electric assistance for those wanting less physical effort. All tours include a safety briefing and are guided.
The experience highlights the East Coast scenery of Tairāwhiti Gisborne. Riders can stop at designated picnic spots to enjoy their own refreshments against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Historic Railway Context
The tracks form part of the former Napier-Gisborne railway, which connected the region in stages during the early to mid-20th century. Passenger services ended in 2001 and the line was mothballed after storm damage in 2012. Railbike tours now provide a way to experience this heritage infrastructure safely.
Preparation and What to Bring
Arrive early at the meeting point for the safety briefing. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring water, morning tea, snacks, sun protection, and rainwear as needed. No food or drinks are provided on the tour.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the unique railbike experience, stunning coastal views, and the novelty of riding through tunnels and along the old railway line. Many note that e-bikes make the ride enjoyable even for those with lower fitness levels, and the guided format provides helpful information about the area.
Reviewers often highlight the peaceful picnic spots with ocean outlooks and the smooth, scenic journey. The tandem setup and safety measures receive positive comments, with participants appreciating the chance to explore otherwise inaccessible coastal sections of Gisborne.
Where to Learn More
Railbikes.nz Beach Loop page: Official details on the tour, pricing, and booking.
NewZealand.com listing: Tourism New Zealand overview of the Beach Loop experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fitness level is required?
Moderate fitness for standard railbikes; e-bikes reduce effort significantly.
Are pets allowed?
No pets are permitted on the tours for safety reasons.
Is there a weight limit?
All riders must weigh less than 130 kg.
Are restrooms available on the route?
No restroom facilities are provided along the track; plan accordingly before departure.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator may cancel for weather; full refunds apply if cancelled before departure.
Can I ride solo?
Standard railbikes are tandem only; no solo rides are available.
How far is the meeting point from Gisborne?
Coop Road, Muriwai is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from central Gisborne.
Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, railbikes and e-bikes are provided as part of the guided tour.
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