Whakatāne District is gearing up to welcome a stream of pedal-powered athletes as they cycle across the North Island later this month.

New Zealand's cape-to-cape adventure, Kōpiko Aotearoa, starts in Gisborne on various dates between 22 January and 30 January.

Up to 140 athletes will pass through Ōpōtiki, Whakatāne and Edgecumbe as they cycle 1060 km to the finish line in New Plymouth, with some people expected to cycle in the opposite direction.

Whakatāne District Council’s manager tourism and events, Nicola Burgess, says Kōpiko Aotearoa is an "awesome" event and it will be a privilege to welcome the cyclists to Whakatāne District.

"Our district's beautiful scenery and long sunshine hours offer a perfect environment for adventure sports," she says.

"Pedal power is not only one of the best ways to enjoy our district, it's healthy and environmentally friendly.

"I'm sure all of our communities will join us in offering a big Whakatāne welcome to these inspiring athletes as they pass through our district."

Ride coordinator Simon Kennett says one aim of the event is to provide a very scenic, quiet route that cyclists will enjoy.

"We're excited for the riders to be checking out a different part of the motu, and expect the section through Whakatāne will be a highlight - particularly along the path by the Whakatāne River," he says.

"While challenging, it's not a race, and we hope participants will take the time to really connect with the places they visit."

Kōpiko Aotearoa is a sister event of the length-of-New Zealand 'Tour Aotearoa'.

Whakatāne whānau can get involved by waving, supporting cyclists as they pass, or even setting up a table with snacks and water. Check the Tour Aotearoa website for details of the cycling route.

Intrepid local cyclists can go one step further by joining the event through the website. Much of the route passes through remote regions, and cyclists are advised to take a tent.

Unlike most events, there is no entry fee. Instead, riders must make a donation to a charity that supports the trails, environment or people along the course.

The official route is subject to change because of Covid-19, and cyclists are being asked to check the website for updates before the event starts.

Visit the Kōpiko Aotearoa event website | Facebook Group | Visit whakatane.com