Important information for riders on the West Coast Wilderness Trail
Your safety and enjoyment on the Trail are extremely important to us so please read the following carefully and download our Heath & Safety Guide For Riders.
The West Coast Wilderness Trail offers a unique experience for riders by immersing them in some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes that can be found anywhere in New Zealand. However even though the Trail is rated Grade 2 easy with some Grade 3 on road riding, cyclists need to be fully aware that the sections providing the most "wilderness" experience are remote and require good planning and preparation to be ridden with full enjoyment and safety.
Please do not overestimate the fitness and capabilities of yourself or other group members. Taking on more than one section of 30-35 km in a day should only be attempted by fit and experienced riders. Especially in the middle sections of the trail it is strongly advised that you begin early in the day. Plan to be out on the trail in the sections between Hokitika and Kumara by 9.30 latest. A buddy system should be put in place especially for lone riders. Make sure someone is aware of your intentions and that they are alerted when you have reached your end of day destination especially when the weather is inclement. Riders should stay together always. The same as for a hiking group, the pace should be determined by the speed of the slowest rider. Minimum is a plan to rendezvous at certain points but this can bring with it potential problems if slower and less fit riders who are getting tired miss directional signs and take a wrong turn. You need to be self-sufficient and capable of dealing with any enforced stop whether it be caused by a mechanical breakdown or an injury. You should be prepared for all weathers. Currently there are no shelters along the Trail and as we know when you stop you cool down quickly. As at November 2016 Cell phone coverage is non-existent just beyond Kumara until almost in Kaniere (5km from Hokitika)
Essential "What to Take" Checklist
Map of Trail (available at Information Centres and Businesses supporting the Trail) Bike repair kit Water Snacks Rain jacket Fleece Sand fly repellent Sun crèame First aid kit Shuttle phone number Camera Cellphone Cash
