In the Waioeka Gorge, south of Ōpōtiki, the historic Tauranga Bridge is well worth a visit. It’s one of only two harp-strung suspension bridges left in New Zealand.

Cross the bridge over the beautiful Waioeka River to a 6km loop track that traverses abandoned farmland and regenerating bush. There are two stream crossings to complete the loop, so it’s not passable if the rivers are high. The track is mostly rideable by skilled mountain bikers but in places, extreme care is required.

> Get there: Head south from Ōpōtiki on SH2. Tauranga Bridge is 26km south of Ōpōtiki.