March Hare Cycling Opens

NEW TOURISM VENTURE OPENS AT HEART OF CLASSIC NZ WINE TRAIL

Fancy a leisurely afternoon pedaling amongst the Northern Wairarapa vineyards, through olive groves and across paddocks?

Well thanks to March Hare Cycling, a brand new cycling experience based at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail and located only 1 ½ hours from Wellington, visitors can hire bicycles and explore the Northern Wairarapa – one of New Zealand’s up and coming wine regions.

Owner of March Hare Cycling, Gretchen Bunny, says the self guided cycling tour has been specially designed to give visitors an insiders look around the scenic area located five minutes north of Masterton as well as the chance to sample fresh local produce, a variety of wines and olive oils.

“This type of wine tourism experience is new to the Northern Wairarapa and I’ve spent long hours on the bike developing the best route so visitors can experience first hand the unique characteristics that make up this increasingly popular wine-growing area,” she says. “Not only will people get to meet an eclectic group of local personalities but they will also be able to enjoy a delicious picnic of locally sourced produce and have exclusive access to trail routes across farmland and in between vineyards.”

Gretchen established her business in October this year after spending almost 15 years working outside of the region and overseas. But her passion for the Northern Wairarapa was so great she decided to return home and share her passion with others.

“Six months ago I was made redundant from a job I loved and was contemplating moving back to the or to Australia,” she recalls. “However I was really excited by a number of developments happening in the Wairarapa and realized this is where I want to be. I also realized there was a great opportunity for me to provide a new tourism experience here.”

Starting within the leafy groves of Loop Line Olives visitors can cycle cross country on quality and comfortable bikes meandering through the vineyards and nearby olive groves. With an easy to follow map and a well marked route visitors enjoy a picnic of locally sourced produce and have exclusive access to cycle across some of the region’s most scenic farmland and through vineyards.

March Hare Cycling is focused on making the day as easy and relaxed as possible and is easily accessible.

“For Wellingtonians the train is a great option,” says Gretchen. “Not only is it incredibly scenic but it means you can enjoy tasting the wines without worrying about the drive back. Plus we’re able to collect you from the Masterton Railway Station, deliver you to March Hare Headquarters then drop you off again in time for your train home.”

The cost is $65 per person and includes bike and helmet hire, a delicious picnic, a route map and exclusive access across private land.

March Hare Cycling is now taking bookings for summer and also offers vouchers – the perfect gift to give someone needing to unwind during the festive season. There is a maximum of 20 persons and booking are essential for catering purposes.