Cycling Trails in New Zealand

Choose from 6 bike trails that cover New Zealand cycling trails on both North and South island. Most rides can be cycled all year round, with Spring and Autumn the best seasons to be outdoors. Pack in that sunblock, reflective sports wears and bottled water.

Hawke's Bay Trails1-4 days
Cycling in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.
Hawke's Bay

This trail offers great panoramic views of the North Island. This flat trail stretch over the Heretaunga Plains and weave between the twin cities of Napier and Hastings. Ride through world-class wineries over 1-4 days and 200 km, whether you're a beginner or intermediate cyclist.

The Timber Trail2 days

Ride through ancient forests in the heart of NZ's North Island and on its 8 thrilling suspension bridges that offer vantage points of the wonderful landscape. This easy/intermediate trail spans 873 km and can be cycled in two days.

Mountains to Sea1-6 days
Bridge to Nowhere, Whanganui National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand.
Whanganui National Park

Passing through the volcanic Tongariro National Park and deep forest Whanganui National Park with a mix of mountain biking trails and the public road. Experience the rich Maori history along the way and be ready for a jet boat ride down the Whanganui River! This easy/ intermediate trail is long and challenging and spans over 297 km that can be cycled between 1 to 6 days.

Alps 2 Ocean Trail1-6 days
Couple cycling on the Ocean Cycle Trail at Lake Pukaki
Alps 2 Ocean Trail

Soak up the epic scenery on New Zealand's longest cycle trail. Starting at the base of NZ's highest mountain Aoraki/Mt Cook, this is a stunning track that passes a number of surreal turquoise waters and passes along country towns and historic Oamaru. It covers 306 km over six days and is great for all ages and levels.

  • Drive

    4 hours from Christchurch or 3 hours 30 mins from Queenstown
    Book rental car

Great Taste Trail1-4 days
Family biking along Great Taste Trail, Nelson, New Zealand.
Great Taste Trail

Take in the panoramic views of Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary, and mountains in the Western Ranges. You will enjoy a mix of coastal and rural scenery, riding through the historic high country and award-winning wineries. This 1-4 day, 175 km trail is suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.

Otago Central Rail Trail1-5 days

Named after the original railway line built between 1891 and 1907, the trail is New Zealand's original 'Great Ride'. One of the highlights of this trail is the number of historic railway bridges cyclists will ride on. Suitable for all skill levels, the full trail stretches 152 km over 5 days.

Information on cycling in New Zealand

More itineraries

For more destination ideas, visit newzealand.com

Cycling image courtesy of Hawke's Bay Tourism; Whanganui National Park image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand; Lake Pukaki cycling image courtesy of Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism; Family biking image courtesy of Chocolate Dog Photography; Images courtesy of Tourism New Zealand; Image credit to Kaikoura Kayaks; Queenstown stargazing, image courtesy of Skyline Queenstown; Russell image courtesy of David Kirkland; Bay of Islands image courtesy of Northland Inc ; Friends looking at view image courtesy of Destination Queenstown