Rich in breathtaking scenery and must-see attractions, Nga Haerenga (‘The Journeys’) are an unforgettable way to explore New Zealand. Mostly off-road and traversing a remarkable range of landscapes, the Great Rides offer adventures for almost every age and ability.
Renting a bike is easy in New Zealand; plenty of rental providers can be found in the main centres that surround each of the Great Rides. Choose to explore a trail for an hour, a day or a week; whichever fits in with your itinerary.
They are as diverse as they are beautiful, showcasing a satisfying blend of natural wonders, cultural sights, food and wine. Tasman’s Great Taste Trail offers a leisurely tour of cafes, wineries and galleries spread across rolling countryside and along a sparkling coast. At the other end of the scale, the Old Ghost Road is a challenging journey though a remote mountainous wilderness.
Spread throughout New Zealand from the Bay of Islands in the north to Queenstown in the south, the Great Rides are a memorable way to reach sights and attractions. Pedal between Napier’s art deco buildings on the Hawke’s Bay Trails, stargaze from an alfresco hot tub on the Alps 2 Ocean, and wind through Rotorua’s steamy geothermal wonderlands on Te Ara Ahi. Explore two contrasting national parks on the Mountains to Sea, and freewheel through golden high country of the Otago Central Rail Trail.
As locals will tell you, there really is something for everyone on the New Zealand Cycle Trail, even for beginners and rusty riders. Passionate tour companies offer advice, guiding, shuttles and luggage transfers, while welcoming accommodation, cafes and restaurants provide home comforts along the way.
