The Best Cycling Locations In New Zealand
All video content courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Alps 2 Ocean - South Island
Ride past glacial fed lakes under the gaze of snow-capped mountains
Although this is the longest of all the cycle trails at 310km, it's also one of the best to enjoy a couple of short day rides. We'd suggest focusing on the iconic sections between Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau, traversing the edges of the vivid blue lakes.
Alps 2 Ocean. Image credit - Miles Holden
We suggest
Ride 1 - Lake Pukaki to Twizel return
If you're travelling from Christchurch park at the junction of the main highway and Hayman Road. Follow the track towards Twizel where you'll find a few great places to refresh before returning via the same route.
Ride 2 - Glen Lyon Rd to Ohau road end
Park at the junction of Glen Lyon Road where it meets Lake Oahu. You'll find a lovely path traversing Lake Ohau itself. When you make it to the sealed road, turn around and return via the same route. For a slightly longer route, park in Twizel and start out riding along Glen Lyon Road.
Hauraki Rail Trail
Ride through a stunning gorge, past the remnants of historic gold mining
While the Hauraki Rail Trail has many options for cycling, the main attraction is the Karangahake Gorge. Most visitors focus on this gorge-ous area due to the stunning landscape and historic places of interest along the way. Following one of New Zealand's oldest railway corridors, the trail takes you through a steep-sided gorge, crossing the flowing river below on swing bridges and old railways bridges.
Hauraki Rail Trail bridge
We suggest
Parking at Karagahake Gorge main visitor area and riding through part way to the meeting point of Old Tauranga Road. If you're feeling energetic the trail goes all the way to Waihi where you can grab something refreshing to drink and a hearty snack before retracing your tyre tracks.
Otago Rail Trail
Discover the magical and rich history of Central Otago
One of the most famous rail trails in New Zealand, the Otago Rail Trail lives up to the hype. Ride through historic gold mining villages, rugged scenery and past quaint country pubs - if you've got 4/5 days then we'd highly recommend doing the entire trail, yes it's that good. With great accommodation options (ranging from quaint B&Bs through to stunning country lodges) you can turn it into a really relaxing adventure.
Otago Rail Trail. Image credit - Miles Holden
We suggest
If you only have a day, try the return leg of Hyde to Daisybank. Follow the Taieri River through the Upper Taieri Gorge, for a picnic at Hyde before following the trail back down the riverside again.
Otago Rail Trail. Image credit - Miles Holden
Hawke's Bay Trails
Ride winery to winery soaking up the sounds and smells of paradise
As you're in wine country, it'd be rude not to indulge. With its heritage in wine and gently rolling topography, Hawke's Bay is the perfect place for a vineyard tour via bike. Pedal between locations, and enjoy the benefits of multiple award-winning wineries, whether you stop for a morning coffee, antipasto platter with wine for lunch or a delightful evening meal topped off by a local wine. Don't forget to check out our local maui Winery Haven, Linden Estate while you're there too.
We suggest
Park at the end of River Road by Tuki Kitchen. Ride alongside the Tuki Tuki River, taking a right at the sea and heading towards Cape Kidnappers. Once refreshed, return via the same route. Don't forget to visit the Arataki Honey Centre while you're in the area, just a short ride/drive from your parking spot.
Hawke's Bay Trails. Image Credit - Camilla Rutherford
If you're keen to combine these fantastic cycling experiences into your next maui holiday, contact our reservations team to find out how.