Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike

If you’re visiting Napier and craving a unique way to see the area’s breathtaking landscapes, the Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike could be just what you’re looking for. This tour promises not only immense fun but also spectacular views from one of New Zealand’s most iconic peaks. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the rave reviews and detailed descriptions give us plenty of confidence recommending it to those after a memorable slice of Hawke’s Bay.

What really catches the eye are the intimate group size—only four riders per trike—which means you get a sense of adventure without feeling lost in a crowd. Plus, the professional driver-guide makes the journey both safe and informative, making it suitable even for those new to open-air rides. On the flip side, if you’re someone who prefers a quiet, narrated tour, this might feel a bit lacking since there’s no ongoing commentary during the ride. Still, the views and the thrill are likely to compensate for that.

This experience is particularly well-suited for adventure lovers and scenic seekers who want to combine a little adrenaline with stunning vistas. If you’re short on time but want a memorable highlight of Napier, or if you’re after a fun way to explore beyond the usual, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a great choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group tours (max 4) mean more attention from the guide and a more exclusive adventure.
• Scenic Drive & Views: From Napier through Tukituki Valley, finishing atop Te Mata Peak with 360-degree views.
• Comfort & Safety: Ergonomically designed seats and seatbelts ensure a safe, comfy ride, even on curvy roads.
• Includes Hotel Pickup & Drop-off: Adds convenience, especially if you’re based in Napier.
• Duration & Flexibility: About 2 hours of riding, leaving plenty of time for the rest of your day.
• Highly Rated: Consistently perfect scores from over 100 travelers, praising the experience as exciting, scenic, and well-organized.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Convenience

The tour begins at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, a central and accessible spot in Napier. The included hotel pickup and drop-off are a real boon, saving you from navigating unfamiliar streets or hunting for parking. This makes the experience feel effortless from start to finish, especially after a morning on your feet or during a busy travel day.

The Ride in a Supertrike

Imagine sitting in a stylish, open-air Supertrike — think a motorbike with a third wheel, but way more comfortable and stable. The seats are ergonomically designed, making the ride surprisingly smooth and comfy despite the open-air format. The power under the hood (a 5.8L engine, based on reviews) ensures a thrilling ride without feeling out of control.

The driver, often described as friendly and professional, handles the trike with finesse. Many reviews highlight how safe and confident they felt, even when navigating curves or bumpy sections. The open design means wind in your hair, sun on your face, and a real sense of freedom as you cruise through the countryside.

The Scenic Drive Through Tukituki Valley

The journey takes you out of Napier, along the coast, and through the picturesque Tukituki Valley. This stretch alone is a highlight—vines, rolling hills, and farmland pass by in a blur of natural beauty. The reviews repeatedly mention how much they enjoyed this part of the ride, with many recalling it as both exciting and scenic.

The Highlight: Te Mata Peak

The real star of this experience is reaching Te Mata Peak, which stands about 1,400 meters above sea level. Once at the summit, you’ll have around 30 minutes to enjoy the panoramic 360-degree views. As one reviewer noted, “The views from the peak were absolutely stunning!” Bring a blanket or something to drink if you’d like to relax and soak in the scenery.

Many travelers comment on how impressive the views are—ranging from lush vineyards to distant coastlines and rolling hills. The opportunity to snap photos, enjoy the fresh air, or simply take in the scenery makes this stop a true highlight.

Additional Details & Practical Info

• Cost & Value: Priced at around $136.53 per person, the tour offers a fun, scenic experience that many say is worth every penny. Considering the small group size and the personalized nature of the trip, it’s a good value for a memorable adventure.
• Duration: The whole ride lasts approximately 2 hours—perfect for fitting into a busy day, leaving plenty of time for other activities.
• Weather Dependency: Since this is an outdoor adventure, good weather is essential. If canceled due to rain or wind, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.
• Group Size & Booking: Limited to four travelers, ensuring a relaxed and intimate experience. You won’t be sharing the ride with strangers, which adds to the sense of adventure.
• Booking & Cancellation: Easy to book, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—great for flexible planning.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

From glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour appeals to a broad range of travelers. Many mention the knowledgeable and friendly guide—Phil, in particular—who makes the experience even more enjoyable. “Phil was very accommodating and knowledgeable,” says one review, emphasizing the personal touch that really elevates the trip.

The views from Te Mata Peak consistently get high praise—many describe them as “spectacular,” “breathtaking,” and “unbelievable.” The thrill of riding a super trike, combined with the scenic drive, seems to hit just the right note for adventure enthusiasts.

Some reviews mention bringing warm clothing, sunglasses, or scarves, especially since the open ride can get breezy. A few also highlight the importance of sun protection, given the exposed nature of the trip.

What You’ll Love

• The thrill and novelty of riding a super trike, which is described as very comfortable and well-handled.
• The impressive scenery along the drive and atop Te Mata Peak, making for perfect photos and lasting memories.
• The personalized attention in a small group, with a guide who is both friendly and professional.
• The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, especially if you’re already based in Napier.

A Few Considerations

• Since there’s no commentary during the ride, those wanting detailed narration might be disappointed.
• Weather plays a significant role—bad weather could lead to cancellation, so checking the forecast is wise.
• It’s not suitable for anyone seeking a very long or leisurely tour; this is a quick but impactful experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and adventurous way to see Napier’s landscapes, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and don’t mind the open air and wind. Nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a memorable highlight of their trip would likely cherish this ride.

It’s also a great choice if you prefer small, private groups over large buses, and value personal interaction with guides. However, if you’re looking for a narrated experience or a more relaxed, slower-paced tour, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs about the Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Napier, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long does the ride last?
The total riding experience is about 2 hours, with roughly 30 minutes spent at Te Mata Peak to enjoy the views.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to four travelers per trike, ensuring a personal and intimate experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s a good idea to bring a jacket or scarf for warmth, sunglasses for sun protection, and perhaps a drink or blanket for the peak stop.

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?
While cruise passengers need to contact the provider beforehand, the tour departs from the National Aquarium, which is the second shuttle stop. Note that they don’t operate in Napier port itself.

What’s the price?
At around $136.53 per person, the cost covers a unique scenic ride and access to stunning views—many find it excellent value for such a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Is there commentary during the ride?
No, due to the open-air nature of the trike, there is no live commentary during the ride, but guides are friendly and knowledgeable.

What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike offers a truly memorable way to see Napier’s landscapes. Combining the thrill of riding in a stylish, open-air trike with breathtaking views from Te Mata Peak, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and scenery. The small group size adds a personalized touch, and the professional guide ensures safety and fun.

While it’s not a narrated tour, the natural beauty and adrenaline make up for it. If you’re comfortable with the open ride and want a fun, scenic outing, this is a fantastic choice. Just remember to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the wind and sun. For an experience that’s both exciting and visually stunning, this trip is hard to beat in Napier.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to tick an adventurous activity off your bucket list, the Supertrike tour of Te Mata Peak has all the ingredients for a standout memory of your visit to New Zealand.