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New Zealand is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, with its stunning natural landscapes, well-maintained cycle trails, and mild climate. From the rolling hills of the Otago Rail Trail to the geothermal wonderland of Te Ara Ahi, there are countless cycle tour destinations to explore in this beautiful country.

Whether you’re a seasoned cycling enthusiast or just starting, a trail in New Zealand is perfect for you. In this country, you can experience everything from leisurely rides through quaint towns and picturesque countryside to challenging mountain bike trails that will test your skills and endurance.

So grab your bike, put on your helmet, and get ready to discover the best cycle tours that New Zealand has to offer.

1. Otago Rail Trail

The Otago Rail Trail is a 150km cycling trail on the South Island of New Zealand that follows a former railway line route. The trail takes you through the stunning Central Otago region, passing through several historic towns and scenic landscapes.

The trail suits all skill-level cyclists and can be completed over several days. Along the way, you’ll pass through several small towns where you can rest and refuel. Plenty of accommodation options are available, from camping grounds to luxury lodges.

The Otago Rail Trail is not only a fantastic cycling experience, but it also offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. You’ll pass through several historic tunnels, viaducts, and bridges along the way. There are also several museums and heritage sites that you can visit.

The best time to cycle the Otago Rail Trail is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. It’s still possible to cycle the trail in winter, although you’ll need to be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter days.

3 huge swing bridges on the Around the Mountains cycle trail - Around the Mountains/Escape by Yoga/Escape by Golf

2. Queenstown

A popular destination for adventure tourism, Queenstown offers several cycling trails, including the Queenstown Trail and the Gibbston River Trail.
Queenstown is a popular destination for adventure tourism in New Zealand and offers several cycling trails suitable for all skill levels. The town is located in the Southern Alps of the South Island, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear lakes.

One of Queenstown’s most famous cycling trails is the Queenstown Trail, a 120km network of trails that takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. The trail passes through several historic sites, including the Arrowtown historic gold mining village, and offers stunning views of the mountains and lakes.

Another popular cycling trail in Queenstown is the Gibbston River Trail, which takes you through the Gibbston Valley wine region. The trail follows the Kawarau River and passes through several vineyards and wineries where you can stop and sample the local wines.

For more experienced cyclists, there are also several challenging mountain biking trails in the area, including the Skyline Queenstown Mountain Bike Park, which offers a range of downhill and cross-country trails.

Queenstown is a popular tourist destination all year round, but the best time to cycle in the area is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. If you’re looking for a winter adventure, you can also go fat biking on the snow-covered trails around Queenstown.

Around the Mountains Cycle Trail

3. West Coast Wilderness Trail

The West Coast Wilderness Trail is a 139km cycling trail on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. The trail takes you through the region’s most stunning and rugged landscapes, including native forests, glacier-fed rivers, and the wild West Coast beaches.

The West Coast Wilderness Trail has four sections, each with unique scenery and challenges. Along the way, you’ll pass through several small towns where you can rest and refuel. Plenty of accommodation options are available, from camping grounds to luxury lodges.

The trail suits cyclists of all skill levels, although some sections are more challenging. The trail can be completed over several days, with the option of cycling one or all of the sections.

One of the highlights of the West Coast Wilderness Trail is the stunning scenery. The trail takes you through several national parks and conservation areas, including the Paparoa National Park and the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. You’ll see stunning views of the Southern Alps, the Tasman Sea, and the wild West Coast beaches along the way.

The best time to cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. The trail can be cycled all year round, although you’ll need to be prepared for colder temperatures and rain in the winter months.

West Coast Wilderness Cycle Tours blog post vol 3 thunderbirds we are go

4. Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay is a beautiful region located on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, known for its vineyards, art deco architecture, and beautiful cycling trails. The region has several cycling trails that take you through stunning landscapes, including vineyards, orchards, and coastal scenery.

One of the most popular cycling trails in Hawke’s Bay is the Hawke’s Bay Trails, a network of trails covering over 200km of terrain. The trails are divided into several sections, each with unique scenery and attractions. Along the way, you’ll pass through several historic towns, including Napier and Havelock North, and see stunning views of the coast and countryside.

Another popular cycling trail in Hawke’s Bay is the Landscapes Ride, which takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful scenery. The trail follows quiet country roads and passes through several wineries, orchards, and historic sites. The Landscapes Ride is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days.

For more experienced cyclists, the area also has several challenging mountain biking trails, including the Eskdale Mountain Bike Park and the Pan Pac Eskdale Mountain Bike Park.

The best time to cycle in Hawke’s Bay is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather in the area is milder and the days are longer. The region is known for its warm and sunny climate, and it’s possible to cycle all year round.

5. Lake Taupo

A popular tourist destination on the North Island known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The Great Lake Trail is a 71km cycling trail that takes you through the stunning landscapes around Lake Taupo.

Lake Taupo is a large freshwater lake in the centre of the North Island of New Zealand and is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The lake and surrounding area offer several cycling trails suitable for all skill levels, making it a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts.

One of the most popular cycling trails in Lake Taupo is the Great Lake Trail, a 71km trail that takes you through the beautiful native forests of the Tongariro National Park. The trail offers stunning views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and several waterfalls and streams. The Great Lake Trail is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days.

Another popular cycling trail in Lake Taupo is the Huka Falls Trail, which takes you from Taupo to the stunning Huka Falls. The trail follows the Waikato River and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The Huka Falls Trail suits cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a few hours.

For more experienced cyclists, there are also several challenging mountain biking trails in the area, including the Craters Mountain Bike Park and the W2K Trail.

The best time to cycle in Lake Taupo is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather in the area is milder and the days are longer. The region is known for its mild climate, and it’s possible to cycle all year round.

6. Nelson

Nelson is a coastal city on the South Island of New Zealand, known for its sunny climate, stunning scenery, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The region also has several cycling trails that take you through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes.

One of Nelson’s most famous cycling trails is the Great Taste Trail, a 175km trail that takes you through the region’s stunning coastal scenery, vineyards, and orchards. The trail has several sections with unique attractions, including craft breweries, cafes, and art galleries. The Great Taste Trail is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days.

Another popular cycling trail in Nelson is the Dun Mountain Trail, a 38km trail that takes you through the beautiful native forests of Dun Mountain. The trail offers fantastic and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and several historic mining sites. The Dun Mountain Trail is suitable for intermediate to advanced cyclists and can be completed daily.

For more experienced cyclists, there are also several challenging mountain biking trails in the area, including the Kaka Mountain Bike Park and the Codgers Mountain Bike Park.

The best time to cycle in Nelson is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather in the area is milder and the days are longer.

Earnslaw on Wakatipu landscape

7. Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is a 301km trail that takes you from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean through New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. The trail is divided into several sections, each with its unique scenery and attractions, and is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.

The trail starts at the foot of the Southern Alps near Mount Cook and takes you through several picturesque towns and villages, including Twizel, Omarama, and Kurow. You’ll pass through stunning scenery, including glacial lakes, braided rivers, and the beautiful Waitaki Valley.

One of the trail’s highlights is the section that takes you through the Mackenzie Basin, which offers stunning views of the Southern Alps and several glacial lakes, including Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. The trail also passes through several historic sites, including the Benmore Dam construction village ruins and the historic Oamaru town centre.

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days. Several accommodation options along the trail include camping sites, motels, and luxury lodges.

The best time to cycle the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

escape-by-cycle blog post vol 1 launch and vol 2 thunderbirds we are go

8. Waikato River Trails

A network of cycling trails that takes you along the Waikato River, passing through beautiful forests and countryside. The Waikato River Trails are a series of cycling trails that follow the Waikato River, the longest river in New Zealand. The trails cover a distance of 105km and are divided into several sections, each with unique scenery and attractions.

The trails start at the Atiamuri Dam and take you through several picturesque towns and villages, including Mangakino, Whakamaru, and Arapuni. You’ll pass through stunning scenery, including native forests, farmland, and the beautiful Waikato River.

One of the trail’s highlights is the section that takes you through Pureora Forest Park, which offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape and several waterfalls, including the stunning Bridal Veil Falls. The trail also passes through several historic sites, including the Waotu Schoolhouse and the Arapuni Power Station.

The Waikato River Trails are suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days. Several accommodation options along the trail include camping sites, motels, and bed and breakfasts.

The best time to cycle the Waikato River Trails is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

9. Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is a 71km trail that takes you through the stunning Marlborough Sounds in the South Island of New Zealand. The track is divided into several sections, each with its unique scenery and attractions, and is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.

The trail starts at the historic Ship Cove, where Captain Cook first landed in New Zealand, and takes you through several picturesque bays and coves, including Endeavour Inlet, Furneaux Lodge, and Portage Bay. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning native forests, farmland, and coastal views.

One of the trail’s highlights is the section that takes you through the Marlborough Sounds, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape and the beautiful turquoise waters of the sounds. The trail also passes through several historic sites, including the Meretoto/Ship Cove historical reserve.

The Queen Charlotte Track is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days. Several accommodation options along the trail include camping sites, lodges, and bed and breakfasts.

The best time to cycle the Queen Charlotte Track is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

west coast wilderness cycle tours

10. Te Ara Ahi

Te Ara Ahi, which means “the path of the hot springs” in Maori, is a 66km cycle trail in the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua on the North Island of New Zealand. The trail takes you through a landscape of bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, natural hot springs, beautiful forests, lakes, and waterfalls.

The trail starts in Rotorua and takes you through several picturesque towns and villages, including Hamurana, Waimangu, and Waikite Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through several geothermal areas, including the famous Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and the Te Puia geothermal valley, where you can see the famous Pohutu geyser.

One of the trail’s highlights is the section that takes you through the Whakarewarewa Forest, which offers captivating views of the surrounding landscape and several beautiful mountain bike trails. The trail also passes through several cultural sites, including the Maori village of Ohinemutu and the historic Kuirau Park.

Te Ara Ahi is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and can be completed in a day or over several days. Several accommodation options along the trail include camping sites, motels, and bed and breakfasts.

The best time to cycle Te Ara Ahi is from spring to autumn (September to May) when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

Clutha Gold

Summary

New Zealand is a great way to experience the country’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle, and it’s also a fantastic way to stay active and healthy on vacation. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just a beginner, there are plenty of options, including guided tours, self-guided tours, and custom itineraries. There are plenty of opportunities to explore off the beaten path, with small towns and rural areas offering a glimpse into New Zealand’s laid-back culture.

If you’re looking for a challenging adventure or a leisurely ride, New Zealand’s cycle tours have something to offer everyone.

About Escape by Cycle

Escape by Cycle is a one-stop shop for tours that offer spectacular cycling routes, premium e-bikes and mountain bikes, complete vehicle assistance, and knowledgeable tour guides.

Our packages enable you to take an all-inclusive vacation to enjoy the Great Rides of New Zealand with cycle tours that take you off the beaten track to explore fantastic remote parts and natural wonders. Stay in boutique bed & breakfast, country cottage and luxury lodge accommodations are available and promise delicious meals, upscale lodging in lovely settings, and fantastic lunches along the bike routes.

With ten years of experience in the industry, we guarantee you will have the most awesome cycle trip available at a competitive price with no additional fees.