Best Bike Rides in New Zealand - Trails You’ll Never Forget

New Zealand is a cyclist’s paradise. With dramatic mountains, rolling hills, coastal views, and quiet rural backroads, it’s no wonder riders from around the world come here for two-wheeled adventures. Whether you’re exploring on an e-bike, mountain bike, or road bike, there’s a trail to suit every rider and fitness level.

Here’s a guide to some of the best bike rides in New Zealand—from iconic Great Rides to hidden local gems that showcase the country’s natural beauty.

1. The Otago Central Rail Trail – South Island

Distance: 152 km

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Best for: Multi-day adventure, family-friendly touring

The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s original Great Ride and a must-do for any cycling enthusiast. The trail follows a disused railway line through the heart of Central Otago, passing historic gold-mining towns, tunnels, and viaducts. With gentle gradients and plenty of local cafes, pubs, and boutique accommodations along the way, it’s perfect for a relaxed multi-day ride.

Highlights: Clyde, Naseby, Ranfurly, and the famous Poolburn Gorge viaduct.

2. The Timber Trail – King Country

Distance: 85 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Mountain bikers and nature lovers

Located in the Pureora Forest, the Timber Trail winds through lush native bush, across massive suspension bridges, and past remnants of the region’s logging history. The ride can be completed in two days, with overnight stays at the Timber Trail Lodge or local campsites. It’s a true backcountry adventure, best tackled on a mountain bike or e-bike.

Highlights: Maramataha Bridge, ancient podocarp forest, and remote wilderness feel.

3. Hauraki Rail Trail – Waikato & Bay of Plenty

Distance: 197 km (various sections)

Difficulty: Easy

Best for: Families and casual riders

One of New Zealand’s most accessible and scenic rides, the Hauraki Rail Trail stretches from Thames to Matamata, passing through lush farmland, the stunning Karangahake Gorge, and charming small towns. Riders can choose short day trips or explore the entire trail over several days.

Highlights: Karangahake Tunnel, Owharoa Falls, and nearby cafes in Paeroa and Waihi.

4. Queenstown Trail – Otago

Distance: 130 km of interconnected trails

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Best for: Scenic day rides, wine and food lovers

The Queenstown Trail links some of the South Island’s most beautiful spots—Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, Gibbston Valley, and Queenstown itself. With stunning alpine views, lakeside paths, and vineyards along the way, this is cycling at its most luxurious.

Highlights: Kawarau Bridge (the original bungy jump site), wineries in Gibbston Valley, and the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu.

5. The Great Taste Trail – Nelson / Tasman

Distance: 174 km

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Best for: Foodies and coastal cruisers

True to its name, the Tasman’s Great Taste Trail combines cycling with culinary delights. Riders pedal past orchards, breweries, coastal boardwalks, and art galleries, making it one of the most enjoyable and relaxing rides in the country.

Highlights: Mapua Wharf, Rabbit Island, and the seaside cafés of Motueka.

6. The Alps 2 Ocean Trail – South Island

Distance: 323 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Serious riders and adventurers

Starting at Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, and finishing at the coastal town of Oamaru, this epic trail offers unmatched variety—glacial lakes, farmland, river valleys, and limestone cliffs. It’s one of the longest Great Rides, typically completed in 5–7 days.

Highlights: Lake Pukaki’s turquoise waters, Kurow wine region, and Oamaru’s Victorian precinct.

7. Hawke’s Bay Trails – Napier & Hastings

Distance: 200 km network

Difficulty: Easy

Best for: Leisure riders and wine tours

The Hawke’s Bay Trails are a network of mostly flat, paved or gravel paths linking wineries, beaches, and historic towns. Ideal for families and casual cyclists, these trails are perfect for a weekend getaway in one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions.

Highlights: Cape Kidnappers views, Te Awanga vineyards, and Napier’s Art Deco charm.

8. Riverhead Forest – Auckland

Distance: Variable (10–40 km loops)

Difficulty: Moderate to advanced

Best for: Mountain bikers and locals

For Aucklanders looking for a nearby adventure, Riverhead Forest is a top spot. With a mix of technical singletrack, gravel roads, and forest trails, it’s a playground for mountain bikers. E-bikes are popular here too, helping riders tackle the steep sections with ease.

Highlights: Native forest, challenging climbs, and close proximity to the city.

9. Remutaka Cycle Trail – Wellington Region

Distance: 115 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Scenic touring and history buffs

The Remutaka Cycle Trail takes riders from Petone on Wellington Harbour through rail tunnels, mountain passes, and along the Wairarapa coast. It’s part of the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides network and offers incredible diversity within a short distance of the capital.

Highlights: Summit Tunnel, Wairarapa farmland, and Ocean Beach.

🧭 Tips for Your NZ Bike Adventure

• Choose your bike wisely: For longer trails or hills, an e-bike makes the journey more enjoyable.

• Pack smart: Always carry water, snacks, a repair kit, and layers for unpredictable weather.

• Book ahead: Many trails have popular lodges and shuttle services—plan early, especially in summer.

• Respect the land: Stay on marked tracks and follow “Leave No Trace” principles.

🚴‍♂️ Final Thoughts

From the rugged backcountry of the South Island to the coastal paths of the North, New Zealand’s cycling network offers something for every rider. Whether you’re after a weekend escape, a challenging mountain route, or a scenic food-and-wine ride, these trails promise unforgettable experiences and world-class scenery at every turn.

So dust off your helmet, charge up your e-bike, and get ready to explore Aotearoa—one pedal stroke at a time.