Cyclists have logged more than half a million trips in the last 12 months on Tauranga’s most popular off-road trails, according to Tourism Bay of Plenty.

Daily counts show that trails at Kulim Park, Waikareao Estuary, Matua Saltmarsh, and Gordon Carmichael Reserve have maintained steady usage during the last three years.

The city’s busiest trail is the 3.6km Marine Parade Coastal Pathway at Mount Maunganui, which opened in 2024 and winds through the dunes beside New Zealand’s most popular beach.

More than 213,000 cyclists passed the automated counter near Banks Ave since the start of last summer.

Those seeking a quieter ride have opted for the unsealed eastern trail at the Kōpūrererua Valley urban wetland, which recorded more than 21,000 cyclists in the same period.

Tourism Bay of Plenty has just released its latest 24-page cycle trails booklet, featuring 13 scenic trails and three mountain biking areas across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

A couple enjoying the Pāpāmoa waterways (Te Ara o Wairākei). Photo / Tourism Bay of Plenty.

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan said cycling is an ideal year-round activity, and the trails are a great way for locals and visitors to explore the region’s heritage and natural environment.

“With trails from Waihī Beach to Paengaroa and everything in between, there’s a trail to suit every age and ability.

“This includes the relatively new 3km Pāpāmoa Coastal Reserve pathway, which enables cyclists to travel to and from Te Ara o Wairākei (the Pāpāmoa waterways) and nearby Pāpāmoa Beach,” he said.

Tauranga City Council team leader of engineering services Karen Hay said off-road trails provide safe spaces for families to enjoy quality time outdoors, while others use them for commuting, school runs, or trips to local parks.

“People can have a social catch-up and exercise at the same time. Our city council has automated counters on most cycle trails, which are monitored to inform current projects and future upgrades and to support funding applications by external parties.”

Printed copies of the new cycle trail booklets are available at isite visitor centres at 1 Devonport Rd and 137 Maunganui Rd.

Online maps and digital copies are available at: bayofplentynz.com/experiences/cycle-trails or via the Explore Bay of Plenty app.