Last updated July 2026
Cycling along Centennial Marine Drive offers an easy scenic ride from Gisborne to the Waipaoa River mouth on the East Coast of New Zealand. The route forms part of the Coastal Waipaoa River Trail and combines sealed road sections with a stopbank path that provides expansive views of the river, farmland, and Pacific Ocean. Riders pass through rural areas including Matawhero while following infrastructure tied to the region’s long-standing flood protection scheme. The trail suits a range of cyclists and connects with longer routes such as the Rere Falls Trail.
Practical Information
| Trail name | Coastal Waipaoa River Trail (Centennial Marine Drive section) |
| Distance | 16 km one way (32 km return or loop options) |
| Grade | Easy |
| Time | 1 hour cycling one way |
| Surface | Sealed road and stopbank trail |
| Start/End | Gisborne city centre or Oneroa Cycleway to Waipaoa River mouth |
| Access | Public road and stopbank; horse riding not permitted |
| Best for | Scenic rides, connecting to longer trails |
About Centennial Marine Drive
The route begins in Gisborne and follows the Oneroa Cycleway before joining Centennial Marine Drive, which transitions to gravel in places before reaching the Waipaoa River mouth. It forms the Gisborne end of the Rere Falls Trail, one of the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail heartland rides. The path runs alongside or on top of stopbanks that are part of the Waipaoa Flood Control Scheme, originally completed in 1973 and now undergoing upgrades for improved climate resilience.
Riders enjoy views across the river mouth to the south and agricultural land to the north. The trail is exposed to wind, so checking conditions helps with route planning. A loop option of around 32 km uses rural back roads such as Bloomfield Road, Bushmere Road, and Nelson Road to return to Gisborne. The stopbanks protect approximately 10,000 hectares of productive floodplain land used for horticulture and viticulture.
The Waipaoa Flood Control Climate Change Resilience project is upgrading the 64 km of stopbanks to provide 1-in-100-year flood protection accounting for climate change to 2090. Work includes raising heights by 1–2 metres in places and widening crests from 1.5 metres to 4 metres. An 8 km cycle trail section on the eastern stopbank between the river mouth and Matawhero Bridge was completed in 2022. Further trail extensions require separate consents and consultation.
Route Options and Connections
From the Gisborne i-SITE or city centre, riders head along Grey Street to join the Oneroa Cycleway, then continue onto Centennial Marine Drive. The route reaches the river mouth at the end of the drive. For a there-and-back ride, turn around at Matawhero or the river mouth. Longer adventures link to the Rere Falls Trail toward Wharekopae Road or combine with the Motu Trails network for coast-to-coast rides.
Alternative loops cross the Waipaoa River bridge and use quiet rural roads back to Gisborne. The trail passes near Matawhero Wines at the northern end. Wind direction affects comfort; southerlies favour starting from the river mouth end, while north-westerlies suit starting from Riverpoint Road.
What Visitors Often Say
Riders describe the route as flat and straightforward with rewarding river and coastal views. Many appreciate the quiet rural setting and the chance to combine it with winery stops or longer trail networks.
Visitors note the mix of sealed and gravel surfaces and recommend checking wind forecasts. The stopbank sections provide a unique elevated perspective over the floodplain and farmland.
Where to Learn More
Tapuwae Tairāwhiti Trails: Official details, maps, and route descriptions for the Coastal Waipaoa River Trail.
Gisborne District Council: Current status and details of the Waipaoa Flood Control Scheme upgrades.
Motu Trails: Information on connecting trails and the broader Tairāwhiti cycling network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the route suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trail is graded easy with mostly flat terrain and a mix of sealed road and stopbank path.
How long does the ride take?
Allow about 1 hour one way for the 16 km distance, or longer for loops and stops.
Are there facilities along the way?
Facilities are limited on the route itself. Plan to use amenities in Gisborne before starting or at nearby points such as Matawhero.
Can I ride a loop?
Yes, a 32 km loop option uses rural roads including Bloomfield, Bushmere, and Nelson Roads to return to Gisborne.
Is the trail affected by flood works?
Upgrades to the stopbanks continue through 2027. Sections remain open, but check the Gisborne District Council site for any temporary restrictions.
Are dogs allowed?
Dog policies are not specified for the trail; keep dogs under control and follow general road rules where applicable.
What is the best time to ride?
Mild seasons with lower wind or rain are preferable. Check forecasts as the route is exposed.
Can I connect to other trails?
Yes, the route links to the Rere Falls Trail and the wider Motu Trails network for longer adventures.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.