Marvel at the Mighty Motu Falls

Soak up the power of these impressive falls from the middle of a lofty suspension bridge.

Directions: Motu Falls, at the Whinray Scenic Reserve, are a short side-trip, 5km from Motu village. The village makes a great overnight stop on the Motu Road section of this Great Ride.

The Motu Falls – feel the power! (Neil Robert Hutton).

Spot the local birdlife (in ceramic form!)

On the Dunes Trail, take the time to pause at the concrete plinths, topped with pottery tiles depicting the beautiful birdlife that can be seen in the area, including the banded rail (mioweka, moho pererū) and red-billed gull (tarāpunga).

Directions: This artful installation can be seen on the Dunes Trail, less than 1km from Memorial Park/Pakowhai ki Otutaopuku bridge near Ōpōtiki.

Thanks to the Ōpōtiki Lions Club for this great addition to the Motu Trails (Jim Robinson).

Can you spot Moutouhorā/Whale Island?

From high above Motu village on Motu Road, on a fine day, the sharp-eyed can spot Moutohorā/Whale island, which sits offshore from Whakatāne, over two hours away by car. This eroded volcanic cone and pest-free wildlife reserve, is home to precious species including oī (grey-faced petrel), tīeke (saddleback), tuatara, kororā (little blue penguin) and kekeno (New Zealand fur seal).

Directions: the island can be spotted from various locations along the Motu Road towards Motu Village. 

Moutohorā/Whale Island waaaay out on the horizon (Neil Robert Hutton).

Download the Great Rides App

This awesome (and free) app will help you locate this Great Ride's hidden secrets, and track your adventure using GPS (no mobile signal required). It also has maps, trail descriptions and info on trail services. 

Download the app from:

 

Find out more about the Motu Trails here.