Great Lake Trail
GradeIntermediate
Duration1–2 days
Length71 km
RegionCentral North Island
Lakeside riding with wide views towards Tongariro National Park and varied sections for a rewarding multi-day outing.
Ride across Aotearoa
New Zealand cycle trails, one memorable turn at a time.
Link lakes, forests, coastlines, wine country and high-country landscapes on a cycling holiday shaped around your pace and experience.
Choose your distance
Make the trail fit the trip.
New Zealand’s cycle trails range from relaxed rail routes and riverside paths to demanding back-country rides. Go for an hour, plan several days, or connect sections with local transport.
- Easy options for families and casual riders
- Intermediate routes with varied terrain and longer days
- Advanced journeys for experienced mountain bikers
- Bike hire, transfers and guided support available in many regions
Great rides to explore
North Island trails
Start with a route that matches your preferred grade, time and landscape. Confirm current conditions and services before setting out.
Hauraki Rail Trail
GradeEasy
Duration2 days
Length69 km
RegionWaikato
A relaxed route through rural scenery, historic rail heritage and the dramatic Karangahake Gorge.
Hawke’s Bay Trails
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration1–4 days
Length187 km
RegionHawke’s Bay
Choose coastal, riverside or winery-focused riding through one of the country’s most varied cycling regions.
The Timber Trail
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration2 days
Length87 km
RegionCentral North Island
Follow historic tramways through native forest, across suspension bridges and into a quiet back-country setting.
Twin Coast Cycle Trail
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration2 days
Length84 km
RegionNorthland
Travel between two coasts through historic landscapes, harbour views and places connected with local stories.
Te Ara Ahi Trail
GradeIntermediate
Duration2 days
Length66 km
RegionBay of Plenty
Ride through Rotorua’s distinctive geothermal landscapes, with steaming ground, forest and volcanic scenery.
South Island routes
Big landscapes, steady rhythm.
South Island trails move through river gorges, alpine foothills, vineyards, historic rail corridors and rugged western forest.
Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration6 days
Length310 km
RegionCanterbury
A long-distance journey from high-country landscapes towards the Pacific, with lakes, rivers and open tussock country.
Otago Central Rail Trail
GradeEasy
Duration1–5 days
Length150 km
RegionOtago
A historic rail journey through wide Central Otago scenery, river gorges, tunnels and changing high-country views.
The Old Ghost Road
GradeAdvanced
Duration2–3 days
Length80 km
RegionWest Coast
A demanding back-country ride through forest, alpine tops, river valleys and landscapes shaped by mining history.
The Queenstown Trail
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration2–3 days
Length99 km
RegionOtago
Connect lakeside paths, historic Arrowtown, wine country and dramatic mountain scenery around Queenstown.
St James Cycle Trail
GradeEasy–Advanced
Duration1–2 days
Length64 km
RegionCanterbury
Ride through high-country valleys, alpine meadows, rivers and beech forest with several riding grades.
West Coast Wilderness Trail
GradeEasy–Intermediate
Duration4 days
Length120 km
RegionWest Coast
Follow historic routes through rainforest, wetlands and the broad landscapes of the Southern Alps’ western edge.
Plan a safer ride
Useful checks before you roll.
Match the grade
Read the route description carefully. Grades reflect terrain and conditions, not only distance. Choose a route that fits your skills and the weather forecast.
Allow extra time
Build in breaks, photo stops and changing conditions. Remote sections may have limited services, so plan food, water and transport ahead.
Pack for change
Carry layers, rain protection, sun protection, water, basic repairs and a charged phone. Check whether your route requires a shuttle or river transfer.
Before you set off
Cycle trail questions
Are New Zealand cycle trails suitable for beginners?
Many trails include easy sections suitable for casual riders and families. Check the published grade, surface, elevation and distance before choosing a route.
Can I hire a bike on the trail?
Bike hire is available in many trail regions, often with helmets, luggage transfers or shuttle options. Confirm availability and fit before travelling.
How should I plan a multi-day ride?
Map daily distances, accommodation, food stops, weather contingencies and transfers. Remote trails may require advance bookings and careful preparation.
Do all trails allow mountain bikes?
Most cycle trails are designed for bicycles, but surfaces and access rules vary. Check the trail operator’s current guidance for bike type and seasonal restrictions.
Can I combine cycling with other travel?
Yes. Regional buses, shuttles, ferries, trains and guided tours can help connect trail sections with towns, accommodation and other activities.