The ride will begin from the Gentle Cycling Company base in Tahunanui, 5kms from the Rutherford Hotel.  Chris from the GCC will guide us on this gentle 20-25 km e-bike ride along the coastal tracks, paths and boardwalks to the beautiful and ecologically significant Waimea inlet sharing his extensive local knowledge of the historical and ecological features along the way. The area is home to a variety of birds including but not limited to godwit, kotuku, royal spoonbill, and little egret and there will be plenty of opportunities to stop and photograph the expansive scenery and wildlife along the way.

The Waimea Estuary is the second largest estuary in the South Island and the Waimea Delta Wetland Enhancement project is working towards restoring marshbird habitat, hopefully drawing back the nationally critically, and extremely shy, matuku or Australasian bittern. It’s unlikely we’ll see one but you never know……

The tour will finish at Greenslade Park. There is the possibility of extending the ride to take in Rough Island and/or Rabbit Island dependent on time and energy.

The tracks are all flat and well-formed making very easy riding.

• Cost ($80) includes hire of electric step-through bikes, helmet, panniers/boxes and return transport to the Gentle Cycling Company base in Tahunanui.

Please note that a group leader will need to be assigned for all attendees. The group leader will be required to confirm that they have the authority of all members of the group to sign the contract and the terms and conditions have been explained to members of the group and they have agreed to individually be bound by the terms and conditions.