Trail Conditions

Current Conditions:  2 July 2025 

The recent snow has disappeared from the trail apart from a skiff of snow in shaded areas in the Oturehua area. Please be very careful if out for a walk or riding today as there areas of ice in shaded areas and on the bridges at times.  

There are some sink holes adjacent to the edge of the trail some 300 metres before Hyde as you travel from Waipiata. One hole is less than 400 mm in diameter but looks to be over a metre deep. It has been temporarily marked off by locals and DOC requested to attend and awaiting an update.     

The trail is mostly clear in but you will experience areas of ice so be careful and if unsure, dismount and walk. Please make sure that you have your winter clothing, a wind jacket and gloves make the ride more pleasant with the wind chill. Check that the cafes and restaurants are open as you require for the sections that you are completing. Stay warm and enjoy. 

DOC are working along the trail completing the installation or widening of the chicanes.

Willow clearing is still being completed in the Poolburn Gorge. The OCRT will not be closed but you may observe some workers with chainsaws working below the trail. When the willows are removed these areas will be planted out in natives as has done beside the Lauder Creek bridge.

What to expect along the Trail

When cycling the trail between the end of April and September please check to ensure that there are cafes or restaurants open for your journey as many close during the quiet months.  

Central Otago is a semi desert area and can experience minus temperatures in the winter to above 25 degrees in the summer. In the winter, frosts can be expected creating icy conditions and snowfalls at times can create a brief winter wonderland on the actual trail.

Rainfall is infrequent, although Middlemarch in the Strath Taieri Valley which is closer to the coast can experience more rain. The accommodation providers are well set up to allow you to wash and dry your gear overnight.  They can also advise you on the availability of food and beverages along the trail before your next destination. 

Spring is a great time to ride the trail, pedaling past the paddocks of lambs, calves and fawns. The weather can be changeable at times but it is a great time to ride the trail.

Ensure that you are well prepared with water, sunblock, warm clothing and a raincoat. Always check the weather forecast like any outdoor activity and talk with the locals to get their advice when required. If you have not done a lot of cycling, consider hiring an e-bike to make your ride more enjoyable. 

Please note that there is limited or no cellphone coverage in the Poolburn Gorge or the section between Daisy Bank and Hyde. 

As always, please report any damage or hazards on the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468 and they will arrange for a DOC Ranger to attend.  Please take a photo and note the location to share with DOC and also inform your Cycle Tour Planner or the Trust Manager Colin Stevenson admin@otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz. Thank you. 

Please be aware that in Spring we experience some isolated complaints about Magpies swooping down from trees. We are limited with what we can do, keep your younger ones beside you, and keep pedaling. Let your Cycle Operator or us, know the exact location if possible.