Ride the Laughing Moa Loop

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Midscale

Upscale

Group size

4-12 tourists,
over 10 y.o.

You arrive in a quiet river valley, settle in for the evening, and by morning you’re already heading out — not into crowds, but into space.

The ride begins with a short shuttle uphill, then unfolds into a 42 km loop through rolling farmland and working stations. You follow backcountry roads through the Moawhango Valley, riding alongside the river, past open fields and long stretches where it’s just you and the sound of your wheels. There’s time to stop wherever it feels right — for views, for stillness, for a picnic lunch carried with you. By afternoon, the loop brings you back, where the day softens again — warm food, quiet air, and space to rest.

Everything is set up so the day flows easily — e-bike, route, meals, and a place to return to. You ride at your own pace, without pressure, with comfort waiting at the end. If you’re drawn to simple routes, open land, and days that feel unhurried, join us and take the loop!

Family Tours

Janey H. is the provider of this trip

5.0 3 reviews

The provider speaks: English

Our stables are based in a beautiful and remote setting, beside the Rangitikei River, on the North Island of New Zealand. We have a variety of exciting horse riding and other adventures and a range of accommodation for you to rest after your day’s adventure!

Tour highlights

42 km Loop You Ride Your Way

A full-circle route through quiet countryside — no rush, no fixed pace, just your own rhythm

Ride Along the Moawhango River

Follow the river through open valleys and farmland with wide, uninterrupted views

Evenings That Slow Everything Down

Finish the day with fresh food, quiet surroundings, and time to fully switch off

Route details

Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your room before dinner. In the evening, enjoy a freshly prepared three-course meal made with seasonal ingredients. The rest of the night is yours to relax and take in the quiet surroundings. Overnight in a comfortable ensuite room (double or twin).

5 more photos

Difficulty

Moderate

Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Tour provider's comments

All rides are on backcountry roads and would be graded 2 – 3. You will share the road with other traffic, though you will most likely encounter few other vehicles. We encourage you to ride by the road rules, the weather conditions, and your ability.

Accommodation

Comfort

Midscale

Upscale

Camp Site

1 night

2 Nights in Ensuite Accommodation (double or twin share)

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Conditions

Included

2 nights in ensuite accommodation (double or twin share);
a choice of continental or cooked breakfast on both mornings;
a 3 course farm to table dinner on both nights;
use of a giant or liv tempt e-bike for a full day (including helmet, high vis vest and a handlebar bag);
downloadable .pdf map and information file;
a gourmet picnic lunch;
tasty nibbles served after your ride;
complimentary use of spa facilities (a 45 minute session in the spa or sauna).

Extras

flight tockets;
any other personal expenses.

It's important to know

What to Wear While Cycling
The Essentials:
• Helmet – We've got you covered if you need one, and it's included with bike hire
• Bright, visible clothing – A yellow shirt, jacket, or vest really helps you stand out on
road sections
• Padded cycling shorts – Whether you prefer lycra or baggy mountain bike style,
these are game-changers for comfort (pro tip: wear them without underwear)
• Anti-chafing cream – Products like Butt Butter work wonders on longer rides. Apply
to your shorts' padding or directly to your skin

Top Half:
• Short-sleeve cycling top or moisture-wicking athletic shirt (cycling tops are brilliant
for those rear pockets and extra-long backs!)
• Thermal long-sleeve top in merino wool, polypropylene, or similar technical fabric
• Waterproof rain jacket with a hood for cycling
• Lightweight windproof jacket for those crisp, breezy days

Hands & Head:
• Short-finger padded cycling gloves for comfort and safety (bring long-fingered ones
if cold weather's forecast)
• Thin cap or buff to wear under your helmet – perfect for warmth, sun protection, or keeping dry

Lower Half & Feet:
• Waterproof cycling trousers (optional, but handy if you have room)
• Grippy outdoor shoes that work for both biking and walking – running or hiking shoes
are ideal

Protection:
• Sports sunglasses with rubberised grips that sit comfortably under your helmet
• Sunscreen
• Basic first aid kit with bandages and essentials
• Toilet paper (just in case!)
Small Day Pack – optional - some people like to ride with a small day pack to carry bits &
pieces. Not essential.

Hydration
Water bottles – We recommend at least one 750ml cycling bottle that fits on your bike. You
can refill whenever we meet up with the van. Start each day well-hydrated: aim for at least 2
litres on shorter rides (30–45km) and 3 litres on longer rides (65–85km), adjusting for
weather and terrain.

Hydration pack – A great option for warmer days!Pack smart—space is limited to 15kg per person. Prepare for all weather — this is New Zealand, after all!