FAQs
We definitely prefer you to make a booking and you do this by entering your request and details from the Contact button above. It is essential for groups because we need to reserve a lot of bikes. Often individuals or small numbers can just turn up and we will have bikes for you but in the holiday season this can't be guaranteed, so booking is preferred.
To ensure we reserve bikes for you or your group a deposit of $10/bike is required. This can be deposited into our bank account prior to your riding date with a reference we will give you on our email reply from your Contact request. The balance of the hire fee is paid on pick-up.What is your cancellation policy?We will refund your deposit if you notify us of cancellation 7 days prior to hire date, otherwise the deposit is forfeited. Sometimes emergencies impact and we will always be reasonable should at the last minute you be unable to ride on your chosen date. Should foul weather affect riding conditions adversely we will refund your deposit, but call us first to discuss.
Most riders make a day of it and enjoy the sights as well as the wineries and restaurants. It's possible to do a good ride in a half-day (4 hours maximum) if you are fit and can push but this doesn't allow much time for winery tastings and dining. The beautiful rides from Havelock North out to the coast at Te Awanga and Clifton are much better suited to all day rides, the Bridge Pa winery area is much more compact but most people still do take all day.
All day hire is from 9am onward unless you have made a prior arrangement with us. Usually we see most folk from around 10am onward.
No. Almost all of the Bridge Pa Wineries trail is now on off-road trail and it's all flat riding. The rides from Havelock North out to the coast at Haumoana, Te Awanga and Clifton are in part on clearly marked road cycle ways and the loop around the Landscapes Ride has a lot of road riding. We view the road riding sections as reasonably safe, easy to follow as they are clearly marked but they are still public roadway so care and personal responsibility is required.
The Bridge Pa Wineries Trail has about 11 wineries represented in close proximity (a 20 km loop covers it). The rides from Havelock North has 9 wineries along the way or in the surrounding area.
This varies. Many wineries now charge tasting fees, usually around $5 for a flight of different wines but it does vary. Many wineries refund these when you purchase wine. Wineries can charge a non refundable fee for group tasting. Good Fun Bike Rides does not cover tasting charges.
Yes. Both areas have many places to eat and we encourage you to use the services the wineries provide. Almost all wineries have platters and nibbles and the Bridge Pa area also has the Cafeteria at Hastings Golf Club as well as a full cafe at Unison Vineyard. The coastal rides from Havelock North have many fine restaurants and cafes on your way.
Good Fun Bike Rides wants you to enjoy the wineries, restaurants and cafes you pass by rather than provide you with a sticky bun for lunch. We have negotiated with some wineries in the Bridge Pa area only a voucher for you to receive a discount on platters, food or wine that you may purchase on your ride. These are only available with full day hires, not half day hire.
We offer a pick-up service to bring or return you from rides but it has to be requested prior to the ride day and a van charge is levied. (See Hire Fees) Should you suffer a mechanical breakdown we will come to your aid for no charge. We also will transport bikes to different trails as required.
We don't offer a discount for groups. Indeed they are usually a lot more work! We hope our fantastic service is sufficient.
Yes. It is our policy for you to wear a helmet, either your own or ours that we provide. It is law that you wear a helmet and we want you to be safe.
Yes, we can and do assist with making accommodation arrangements especially for multi-day riding tours but your contract ultimately is always between you and the accommodation provider.