This is a wonderful scenic ride with magnificent views of Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge, Ashhurst, Woodville and Palmerston North city. You need to be reasonably fit as there is a good climb to start off with and it is a reasonable distance to ride. Starting from the East on Ballance Gorge Road, head out of the carpark and across the road to Hall Block Road. Head up Hall Block Road on a reasonably steep climb that continues for just over 6km to reach the first of the wind turbines and it becomes North Range Road. Go through the gate and continue along the gravel road through the windfarms ensuring that you leave all gates as you found them. Once you get to the Pahiatua Track Road, turn right and descend the long downhill to Aokautere. Turn left at the intersection to take the road through Summerhill and across the Manawatū River into Palmerston North city. 

You will need transport to drop you off to the start of this ride, or alternatively you can do it as an out and back ride from Palmerston North. Alternatively, park your car at the top of the Pahiatua Track and ride up North Range Road through the windfarm and back again. 

NOTE: Caution needs to be taken in rough weather conditions, so please keep an eye on the weather report before doing this ride, as the weather can be extreme at times. Layered clothing is recommended, to be prepared for all types of weather. It is not recommended that you do this ride if the wind is up. It is also not recommended that you bike through the Manawatū Gorge (State Highway Three), so please arrange transport to drive you out to this ride and drop you off. This is not a return ride. You start on Gorge Road and end in Palmerston North city.

Key things to remember in the outdoors:

Stick to the trail and respect the environment by making sure the only thing you leave behind are footprints.

The weather can change in an instant. Make sure you plan ahead, take the right clothing and adequate food, water and supplies.

• Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned. Send them the information directly.
• Get an up-to-date weather report from the  Metservice website before setting off.
• Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.