Takitimu Gravel

This is a flat (and potentially fast) out and back, in central Tauranga that gets you off the roads and pavements and into some peace and quiet.

Starting on Waihi Road, follow the grass track alongside the river (the river will be on your left as you run south). This grass track soon turns to gravel and you'll pass underneath the to highway.

Simply keep running in a straight line - there's a few bridges and tracks off to the left, but for now, stick with what's in front of you.

After approximately 4.5km you'll see Puketormiro Pa off to your left. For a quick pinch of elevation, head up and over this Pa site.

Then back onto the main track, continue south and the cross the first bridge you come to.

Not long after this, you turn back on yourself, but on the other side of the river following a different track on the way back - one that twists and turns somewhat.

Follow this until your almost back at the highway underpass where you'll cross the footbridge and back into the track you followed in. Take a right, heading north and you'll soon be back at the start.