Geoff’s Unstoppable Ride: Tasmania to Hawke’s Bay on an Electric Trike
Geoff, a Tasmanian cyclist living with muscular dystrophy, dreamed of exploring New Zealand’s cycle trails with his wife Judy and close friend Sue. After contacting multiple cycling companies and rental shops in search of an electric trike, the dream started to look like it would remain just that, a dream. That is until Geoff reached out to a small family-owned cycling company located in Hawke’s Bay, Takaro Trails.
Two months before his trip to New Zealand, Geoff and Karen (Owner Operator) of Tākaro Trails talked on the phone about how to make this experience a reality. The solution was an easy one: research and invest in an electric trike that would accommodate Geoff’s needs as well as open the path up for other differently abled people to fully experience Hawkes Bays Trails.
A month before Geoff and his companions were due to arrive in New Zealand, the green electric trike had arrived and was quickly tested and christened “Kermit” by the Tākaro Team. With the help of Kermit, the support of the Tākaro Team, and the “can do” attitude of the Tasmanian Trio, Geoff’s dream had come to fruition, Geoff, Judy, and Sue arrived in Hawke’s Bay. After a quick examination and trial of Kermit’s trail capabilities, the trio embarked on a four-day adventure spanning close to 100 kilometers of some of Hawkes Bays most stunning scenery.
Geoff journeyed through vineyards, idyllic countryside, and sun-drenched coastlines, all while cycling alongside Judy and Sue, creating unforgettable memories together. With shuttle support and logistic planning from the Tākaro Team, as well as a bit of muscle power from Judy and Sue for the trickier gates, Geoff was able to experience every part of the Hawkes Bay cycle experience.
For Geoff, this wasn’t just a holiday; it was a way of continuing to experience the life of travel and adventure that he and Judy loved so much. After coming close to realizing that his search for support for this dream might end, Tākaro Trails not only gave that support, but went above and beyond so Geoff could experience the freedom of cycling in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions.
Perhaps Karen from Tākaro Trails says it best: “The reason why I work so hard at Tākaro is so we can support ALL people to get out and enjoy Hawke’s Bays cycle trails. Meeting Geoff and supporting his trip was the best thing that I have done in a long time. Geoff is an amazing guy, a pleasure to be around, and it was a privilege to make this dream trip come true.”
Geoff’s story is a testament to never giving up, finding the right people and the right tools to make your dreams come true. With a bit of determination, a supportive community, and the kindness of businesses like Tākaro Trails, experiences and memories are possible for everyone. Sometimes you just need a Kermit (and a Karen) in your corner.
Final words go to Geoff….
Hi Karen and Team,
From the first time I emailed you were so helpful to Judy and I .
I guess I had an unusual request as I required a trike because I have muscular dystrophy which is a degeneration of the muscle . I had enquired at several other bike hire companies in New Zealand but Takaro Trails were the only company prepared to purchase one and hire it to me.
As I am sure there are many people like me who still want to ride but can only ride a trike. After many phone calls and emails, we had it all sorted to do our ride which the three of us really enjoyed.
Accommodation was excellent and our ride was all set out each day even where the best coffee places and vineyards were to stop for a morning break or a longer lunch break. A key was organised from the local council to unlock some of the gates on the trail which we got through most of them but there are a couple that we had improvised to get through.
The transport of our luggage from A to B was excellent and you even thought of me one morning as there were too many hills so you picked me up to meet my companions for lunch and I cycled on with them in the afternoon.
Karen you and your team should be congratulated for your attention to detail that you showed us (Even the mince pies and champagne when we finished) and we wish you every success in the future.
The best form of advertising is by word of mouth and that’s what we have done here so you might see some more Tassies there. We have told so many people about your service and the beautiful Hawkes Bay.
We will definitely be in touch and ride in the North Island again if we have the availability of a trike. Please feel free to use any of our comments in your blog.
You and the team deserve nothing but success. Every member of the team gave such attention to detail.
Before riding with your company, we thought any chance of doing a cycling holiday was over for us due to the lack of trike availability.
We have had many adventures and we don’t want muscular Dystrophy to stop our adventures people like yourselves are making it possible for me to keep living the dream and Judy and I both thank you.
Thank you and we wish each of the team a very Merry Christmas and all the best for you and your business in 2025.
Cheers,
Geoff & Judy Terry