Got a question? Just ask!
Below are the most common questions we are asked, but if there’s anything else not covered here, just get in touch!
Cycling at Wildfinder Pencarrow
How far is Pencarrow Lighthouse from Wildfinder Pencarrow?
It’s approximately 7km out to the bottom Pencarrow Lighthouse, which takes about 45 minutes on a Comfort Mountain Bike, and about 20 minutes on an eBike. If cycling into a headwind though, add abit more time!
How do I get to the top lighthouse?
There is a steep path on the left before you get to Pencarrow Head, though this is only advisable for walkers or experienced mountain bikers. We recommend taking the much more accessible path just after Pencarrow Head, which goes around Lake Kohangapiripiri before heading up the back of the hill to the top lighthouse. Be warned though, there are steep areas near the top, so you may have to get off and push!
Is the trail flat?
The main coast trail is completely flat all the way from Wildfinder Pencarrow to Baring Head. Should you wish to go up to the top Pencarrow Lighthouse, round the lakes or to Baring Head you will need to contend with a few hills!
How far does the trail go?
The trail goes as far as the SS Paiaka wreck, after that it’s private land until Baring Head. If you fancy going further afield to the dramatic coastlines of The Wild Coast and the Wairarapa, check out our Cycle Remutaka website for details on day trips and multi-day tours to these areas: www.remutakacycletrail.co.nz
I want to take an eBike, how long do the batteries last?
All our eBikes use extra large batteries, perfect for a full day out on the trails.
What do I need to bring with me?
To hire a bike from us you’ll need to bring a form of ID (driving licence, passport, etc), plus a form of payment (we accept cash, eftpos & credit card). We also have a range of snacks and drinks available for purchase. We’ll provide you with all the bike-specific gear you’ll need, but you may also wish to bring a camera (for those amazing views!) and extra food and water.
What should I wear?
We’d recommend the following:
- Closed shoes - running shoes or sneakers, for example
- Shorts or tight-fitting pants (so they won't get caught in moving bike parts)
- Tshirt or similar for when you're riding
- Fleece and / or light jacket for when you're resting, & waterproofs incase the weather is unsettled!
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
Where is Wildfinder Pencarrow?
We are located at the southern-most end of Muritai Road, Pencarrow. If you're driving, just stay on the main road around the bays and through Eastbourne, and keep going until you hit a large carpark at the end of the road. We're the little shed on your left hand side. If taking the bus, just jump off at the last stop, then walk about 150m to get to the carpark. Easy!
But what about the weather?
It can get windy out on the coast (this is Wellington, after all!) If in doubt, we’d recommend taking an eBike, which are great against the winds. For weather forecasts and updates see www.metservice.com
When are you open?
We’re open every day (aside from Christmas Day) from 10am, unless it’s horrible weather. If in doubt, just give us a call! To avoid disappointment, simply make a booking online - if you make a booking we guarantee to be there with your bikes ready and waiting, and you'll save 10% on walk-in rates!
Kayaking / Paddleboarding at Wildfinder Days Bay
Help, I don't know how to kayak / paddleboard!
Not a problem! One of our friendly instructors will go through with you on the beach exactly what you need to do, how to control your kayak/paddleboard, the basics of paddling and turning, all before you even get your feet wet! Then when you’re ready to head out, we’ll have someone on the beach at all times keeping an eye on everyone.
Do you have a lifejacket to fit me?
Yes! We have lifejackets to fit XXS to XXL, all included as standard in our hire rates. One of our friendly staff will choose the right sized lifejacket for you, help you fit it, and check all the straps before you get in the water.
Do you hire wetsuits?
Yes! We have wetsuits in a range of sizes which are available to hire from $10, so you can keep toasty warm out on the water whatever the weather!
What do I need to bring with me?
Please bring a form of ID with you (driving licence / passport / student ID, etc), plus a form of payment (cash or eftpos). Other than that, we recommend bringing as little stuff as possible with you - just a towel and a change of clothes. You can leave your stuff with us while you paddle, or we can hire out dry-bags, but these are both at your own risk!
What should I wear?
You're likely to get a bit wet while you're paddling - whether it's a few drips off the paddle, or a lot of drips from your mates splashing you. We recommend swimming togs or shorts, a tshirt, and a sunhat or sunglasses. Shoes are not recommended - they'll just get wet!
Is there parking?
There is free parking in Days Bay along the front, and at the Pavilion car park. However, it does get busy, especially on a fine day, so make sure you leave plenty of time before your booking! Alternatively, take a bus or the East by West Ferry from Wellington CBD.
What about the weather?
We have safety precautions for both our kayaks and paddleboards, so if the wind is over our safety limit we won’t hire out. For weather forecasts and updates - see www.metservice.com