This is a hilly ride but well worth the effort, with incredible views of the Rangitikei canyons and out over the Kawhatau Valley. You’ll get a mix of gravel and sealed roads, as well as some exhilarating downhill sections. You’ll cross bridges that offer scenic insights into the unique, rugged landscape of this rural part of New Zealand and cross landscapes of rugged farmland. The junction at Omatane gives views of the Rangitikei canyons at their best, and while the Omatane South Road is arduous it is worth it with an exhilarating down hill run on Potaka Road into the picturesque Kawhatau Valley. Shortly before the bridge over the Rangitikei River, there is a short walkway to the Mangaweka Dam that in times past provided power and water to Mangaweka. There is a walking track to the dam which begins from a parking area on the left hand side after 300m, although care needs to be taken as it is narrow and slippery in places. The Mangaweka Domain is an idyllic spot for camping and swimming. Mangaweka is a quirky village with a ghost town flavour. It is now reincarnating itself as an adventure tourism centre. There are galleries, a cafe, a pub and some accommodation.