Glen Murray: Dirt Bike Experiences and Horse Treks

Glen Murray brings together different reasons to stay: dirt bike experiences, hilly horse treks, and historical and cultural places. Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Park and Smitty's Ridge offer outdoor activities, while Glen Murray War Memorial Hall and Te Poho o Tanikena Marae introduce other perspectives.

Dirt Biking on Hills and Farmland

Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Park spans 750 acres of gently rolling hills. Its well-maintained tracks run through working farmland, with easy trails as well as challenging hills. The park caters to riders of all ages and skill levels.

The park has 18 rental motorcycles with engine capacities ranging from 50 to 300 cc; availability may change. No motorcycle licence or prior experience is required to take part. Check the current participation requirements and motorcycle selection before your ride.

Lessons are available for beginners and more experienced riders, including sessions on your own motorcycle. Advanced coaching is also offered for riders who want to improve their skills. Regardless of their age or fitness level, the coaches teach participants to ride a motorcycle independently. This lets you choose between an introductory session, lessons on your own bike and more advanced coaching.

Horse Treks and Local History

At Smitty's Ridge, the focus is on horses rather than motorcycles, with rides through hilly terrain. These include a briefing on riding safety and assignment of a suitable horse. Bookings are required, and closed-toe shoes or boots must be worn. Keep both requirements in mind before adding a ride to your plans.

Glen Murray War Memorial Hall opened in 1952 and has since been extensively extended and renovated. Its history adds a different perspective on the area alongside its active experiences, without requiring another outdoor activity to be the focus.

Te Poho o Tanikena Marae is located at 2499 State Highway 22 in Glen Murray. The associated Māori reservation for a pā, Hau Kāinga, marae and māra serves the common benefit of the registered members of Te Poho O Tanikena Incorporated, as well as the whānau of Ngāti Taratikitiki, Ngāti Tahinga and Ngāti Pou.

Water Access in the Surrounding Area

Nearby, a public area at the outlet of Lake Whangape provides access to the lake via Whangape Stream; several fishing spots are also within walking distance. Conditions may change due to maintenance and water levels, so take this into account when planning.

An area on Glen Murray Road offers good off-road parking and is considered the preferred place to launch boats. There is no boat ramp there. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended when water levels are low. These details distinguish the access point from one with a boat ramp and are relevant when choosing your equipment and route.

Choose Accommodation to Suit Your Plans

This keeps your search focused on the activities that interest you in Glen Murray.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mangere, Stanmore Bay, Pakiri, Pohuehue, Orewa, Awhitu, Big Omaha, Great Barrier Island.

For the broader travel overview: Auckland.