Mainly through Manawatū rural country, this ride is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, without having to go too far. It's suitable for riders of a moderate fitness level.
From The Square in Palmerston North, you can either ride or drive down Fitzherbert Avenue. Head over the Fitzherbert Bridge then veer left up Summerhill Drive. If you are driving, park your car on the gravel just before the turn off onto Turitea Road. Be sure to lock away all valuables, car parking here is at owner's risk. Turn right onto Turitea Road and as you descend the hill, keep left to follow Turitea Road along the valley. Continue to the end of the sealed road then take the right fork just across the bridge and climb steeply up Greens Road. Stay on this gravel road and single track all the way through to Kahuterawa Road, then turn right onto Old West Road and head back to Summerhill Drive.
Remember that Greens Road is a public road and is popular with walkers, horse and motorcycle riders, so care needs to be taken and always stay to the left.
While on this ride, you'll find the Summerhill Shopping Centre, which has a great variety of shops such as New World Supermarket, where you'll find all your grocery needs, including fresh food to go. The Chemist is a handy place to grab a few essential items. Rendezvous Restaurant has a great menu selection, for both food and beverages. Food to go is plentiful here, with a variety of takeaway and dine-in places, such as the great value Fish n' Chip shop, tasty Indian Cuisine as well as mouth-watering Italian.