RAIL TRAIL INFO
Q: What is the background of the Otago Central Rail Trail?
A: The Otago Rail Trail was the first to be established in New
Zealand. Acquired by the Department of Conservation in 1993, the
former Otago Central Branch Railway was originally completed at
the turn of the 20th Century. The Otago Rail Trail boasts 150 km
of track, which is devoid of any kind of motor traffic and has
no steep hills, the maximum gradient being 1 in 50 or 2% (please
refer also to the elevation
map). The route the trail takes reveals
a history that begun with the
establishment of some of New Zealand's major goldfields in Central
Otago. The landscape that the trail traverses cannot be seen from
the highways and thus by virtue of this has managed to preserve
an important part of New Zealand History.
Q: What level of fitness
is needed to cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail?
A: Reasonable fitness is required. However, both young and elderly
people have successfully cycled the Otago Central Rail Trail,
taking their time where required. Actually, if you can ride a
bike, you
can cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail - just pace yourself.
Padded pants are recommended for those not used to cycling.
Q: What
are some important things to remember?
A: Be sure to carry a water bottle. The intensity of the sun
in summer can be very great. The radiation from the ground increases
the sense of exposure. There is little
shelter and shade. Come prepared with sun hat, sun cream and
appropriate clothing. On a hot day, riding in the morning or
late afternoon
is recommended. However, summers can be cold, too, so be sure
to carry suitable protection from the wind and cold.
There is
no need to take bedding or towels along the Otago Central Rail
Trail if you plan to use the advertised accommodation,
as
this is provided.
In winter dress up warm. See below.
Q: Can we get cell phone coverage on the Rail
Trail?
A: Yes there is cell phone coverage along the trial. However there
are a few spots where cell phone coverage can drop off.
Q: Can you cycle the Otago
Central Rail Trail in winter?
A: Absolutely, but check the weather forecast with locals.
Remember, the cold can be extreme, while we also have beautiful
sunny days
with spectacular snow-covered landscapes. Bring warm clothing.
Plan your trip so you do not have to leave too early and
get off the Rail Trail mid-afternoon.
Q: Can you cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail in winter?
Q: Is cycling the Rail
Trail limited to any age group?
A: No limits! We have had age groups from young children
to an 85-year old grandfather, who completed the Rail Trail
in 3 days.
The
Trail is great as a family experience. Any child who is
keen on cycling and can use a 16 inch
bike or
bigger with no trainer wheels can participate.
The section between Tiroiti
and Rock & Pillar may have
some areas, where ballast still remains on the Trail. This
can be harder
for children to negotiate on smaller-wheeled bikes. As
long as they are keen and encouraged, the ride is worthwhile.
The gradient
is fairly even all the way and therefore does not cause
the problems of hill climbs.
Q:
What is the easiest way to do the Otago Central Rail Trail,
i.e. which end is it best to start from?
A: This has been debated by many. See our
distance chart.
Some think it easier to start from the Middlemarch end
and others
maintain
it is
downhill
from Clyde. Actually there is very little difference
in gradient. Weather conditions make the difference,
especially
if there
is
wind. A
Nor-Wester suits cycling from Clyde to Middlemarch,
but a Sou-Wester gives a tail wind from the Middlemarch
end.
Luck
of the draw
here. More often weather is dead calm anyway.
Q: How
far in a day?
A: That is up to ability and fitness of the Rail Trailers,
and how much sightseeing is desired. As an active
holiday experience, 3 days seems to be the average chosen
by
many. If looking for
a speed challenge then enter in the weekend duathlon
race in February.
NB. It is recommend, if coming by
train the from Dunedin to Pukerangi,
that you make the first overnight
stay
in Middlemarch. The train
gets to Pukerangi in the afternoon (be sure to
check the Taieri
Gorge Railway summer and winter schedule).
The 21 km can be cycled easily, but attempting
to get to
Waipiata
or
Ranfurly makes it
too late in the day with evening darkness onset
before arriving. See also our alternative
route Pukerangi.
Q: Where is Pukerangi?
A: Really in the woop woops, but that is where the
train stops daily, year round.
In addition, the train goes right to Middlemarch
Fridays and Sundays during summer (October-April).
Do check the exact timetable with Taieri
Gorge Railway or with us.
We have provided a map
to orientate you about
the exact location of Pukerangi. We also suggest an
interesting
alternative route for your 21 km cycle ride to Middlemarch.
Q: I live far away
- How can I organise to cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail without any equipment
or know-how
and no transport?
A: Contact us by email or phone and discuss your
needs. We can provide everything you need in
one package.
Q:
Baggage - How can I transport it without having to carry it on
the bike?
A: Firstly, we strongly recommend you use panniers for your gear.
They offer the most stability on the bike. Secondly, we can
provide baggage forwarding
anywhere along the
Otago Central Rail
Trail on request.
Q: Car parking?
A: We offer secure parking in Middlemarch and can arrange for you to leave
your vehicle in other locations along the Trail.
Q: Last but not least
- Is this for me?
A: Thousands have discovered this Rail Trail and its popularity
has mushroomed. That
does not mean you can expect it to be crowded
as it is 151 km in length. It is advisable
to book accommodation
ahead,
though,
as
growth
has not kept pace with demand.
The Otago
Central Rail Trail is free. For some it is a challenge,
for others an adventure,
yet mostly
enjoyed
as an easy outdoor
activity with mighty scenery thrown in.
The natives are friendly, too.
|
