From the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South Island the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand are dynamic adventures through Aotearoa’s diverse landscapes, history and culture.
Get off the beaten track and see the best of New Zealand by bike. Soak up the scenery at your pace, from snow-crusted peaks and golden high country to untouched wetlands and remote coastlines.
In the North Island, The Hauraki Rail Trail Great Ride tracks through the scenic Hauraki Coromandel, not far from Auckland, taking in spooky railway tunnels, gold mining sites and waterfalls. In Rotorua’s dramatic lakeland, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride is an exciting mountain biking track travelling among towering Redwoods, and further south on the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride you’ll experience thrilling descents from volcanic peaks, two National Parks, magical forests and the mystical Whanganui, the planet’s first river to be recognised as a living entity.
At the top of the South Island Tasman’s Great Taste Trail Great Ride, near Nelson, strings together an endless array of treats on a trail that takes in bird-filled estuaries, sandy coastlines and forests, while the Coppermine Trail Great Ride is a thrilling day-ride for mountain bikers. Nearby, in the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track Great Ride is a longer, two- to three-day, mountain biking adventure skirting the region’s gorgeous coves and inlets and travelling through coastal forest.
With these compelling trails running through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, and getting you close to several of Aotearoa’s must-see sights, the Great Rides offer epic experiences for all ages and abilities. They are the perfect way to explore New Zealand in detail while sharing special times with family and friends. Start planning your adventure now.
Hauraki Rail Trail Great Ride
Distance: 167km 3-5 days
Grading: Easiest (grade one)
Bike: Touring, MTB, e-bike. Bike hire and tours: Hauraki Rail Trail Bike Hire
Getting there: Kaiaua, at the start of the trail, is less than two hours’ drive from Auckland and easily accessible from Hamilton and Tauranga.
Trail conditions: Hauraki Rail Trail
The relaxing Hauraki Rail Trail, part of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, is one of the country’s most accessible cycling adventures, travelling along old railway lines through the captivating Hauraki Coromandel region.
With its gentle terrain and abundance of accommodation, cafes and restaurants, it’s one of New Zealand’s easiest trails. Stretching 167km from Kaiaua, in the north, to Matamata, in the south, and east to Waihī, the trail is divided into five manageable day rides, through a variety of landscapes.
To begin, the trail winds for 55km along the Shorebird Coast, to Thames. The shoreline is alive with a plethora of birdlife, including godwits and herons. Further east, the trail threads through mangroves and Ramsar wetlands of international significance. The following day it heads across the Hauraki Plains, towards Paeroa, with its Historical Maritime Park and giant iconic Kiwi L&P bottle on the main street, 34km away. Along the way, in Matatoki, riders can pause at the Cheese Barn for an organic paddock to plate tasting.
At the heart of gold-mining country, the next 24km follows the Ohinemuri River through the dramatic Karangahake Gorge, to Waihī. It includes cycling through a 1km-long railway tunnel and the chance to discover gold mining relics at Victoria Battery processing site, its old tanks standing like ancient ruins on the riverbank.
After returning to Paeroa, it’s a serene 23km through farmlands to Te Aroha, where the mineral spa is the perfect way to soothe tired legs. Finally, leaving Mt Te Aroha (aka “The Mountain of Love”) behind, the trail tracks 38km to Matamata, at the foot of the Kaimai Ranges, where riders can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set.
“Every time I ride the Hauraki Rail Trail, I’m struck by how it weaves together coastlines, bush, farmland and towns,” comments Diane Drummond, CEO of the Hauraki Rail Trail, “It’s not just the scenery that makes it special, but the people and communities who welcome you along the way.”
Highlights
- Visit Pūkorokoro-Miranda Shorebird Centre to learn about the area’s precious birdlife
- Cycle through Karangahake Gorge
- Delve into gold mining history at Victoria Battery & Museum and visit a live mine at Waihī
- Explore Te Aroha Domain and soak in the mineral spa
- Stroll around Lord of the Rings locations at Matamata’s Hobbiton Movie Set
Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride
Distance: Half-day or multi-day rides across 320km
Grading: Intermediate (Grade 2-3)
Bike: MTB, e-MTB
Getting there: Fly to Auckland, Wellington, or Hamilton and self-drive to Ruapehu to begin your Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono journey
Trail conditions: Mountain to Sea Trail Status
The Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride, part of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, traverses two extraordinary National Parks through spectacular and diverse landscapes in the central North Island. From the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park in the east, to the remote wilderness of Whanganui National Park in the west, the trail follows the flowing waters of the sacred Whanganui River to the ocean.
The longest of the 23 Ngā Haerenga NZ Cycle Trails, Ngā Ara Tūhono means connected pathways, allowing you to create your own journey. Connect any of the 12 sections as a hub and spoke experience, encompassing day or half-day rides, or stitch several trails together for an unforgettable multi day journey – the 231km Mountains to Sea Classic Trail – typically taking 4-6 days.
This includes an exhilarating 1000m descent from the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu and one of Aotearoa’s classic adventure rides, the 36km Mangapurua Track. This weaves through Whanganui National Park’s native forests, before crossing the Bridge to Nowhere, built for the failed settlement of Mangapura valley by returning WWI soldiers and ends with a jet boat ride along the Whanganui River.
Another pathway then follows the mystical Whanganui for 65km as it flows toward the Tasman Sea, passing through small riverbank settlements with both Māori and European heritage sites. Finally, comes an easy 19km stretch following the river’s lower reaches through Whanganui, a UNESCO City of Design, brimming with galleries, street art and cafes.
There are over 320km of Mountains to Sea trails to choose from, each with their own character. Two recently opened pathways include Te Ara Mangawhero, that tracks through Tongariro National Park and offers up close views of Mt Ruapehu, and the 9.1km Te Hangāruru that crosses two suspension bridges, including a dramatic span over the Mangaturuturu River.
“Mountains to Sea takes you from snow-capped volcanic peaks through ever-changing forests and communities, all the way to the Tasman Sea,” says Trail Champion, Lynley Twyman, “And it’s as rich in stories as it is in scenery — from Māori connections and pioneering heritage, every section has a tale to tell.”
Highlights
- Year-round riding from the peaks of Mt Ruapehu in Ohakune to the Tasman Sea in Whanganui’s UNESCO City of Design
- Cycle through Tongariro National Park – New Zealand’s only UNESCO Dual World Heritage site of both cultural and natural significance and NZ’s oldest national park
- Immerse yourself in Māori culture and pioneering history in Whanganui National Park through to the Bridge to Nowhere
- Follow the Whanganui River – the world’s first river recognised as a living entity
- Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono are shared pathways that you can ride, run, and walk with over 320km of trails to explore
Queen Charlotte Track Great Ride
Distance: 73.5km, 2-3 days
Grading: Intermediate-Advanced
Bike: MTB
Getting there: Water taxi from Picton, a Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative Pass is required for this ride
Trail conditions: Please check Queen Charlotte Track Essentials
The Queen Charlotte Track, part of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, is one of the nation’s most rewarding mountain-bike adventures. It runs for 73.5km through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds region, at the northern tip of South Island/Te Tauihu-o-te-Waka.
The trail begins with a boat ride from Picton to historic Meretoto/Ship Cove, a sheltered site that holds deep significance for Māori people and where British explorer Captain Cook anchored frequently during his 1770s’ voyages. Here, riders are quickly immersed in coastal forest and tackle ridgeline ascents that provide panoramic views over the bays and islands of Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui.
The track is a mix of intermediate (Grade 3) terrain and sections that challenge advanced riders with technical climbs and steep descents. From Ship Cove it’s around 28km to Camp Bay, through forest and with outstanding views on descents to Schoolhouse Bay, and towards Endeavour Inlet.
The 24.5km middle section, from Camp Bay to Torrea Saddle, leads bikers on a long ridgeline climb, from where there are spectacular coastal vistas, before dropping sharply to the shores of Kenepuru Sound. The final 20km stretch begins with a long steep ascent then heads downhill in a series of switchbacks and through native bush at the water’s edge, toward Anakiwa.
Most bikers choose to ride the full track in two to three days, with water taxis transferring luggage between resorts, camping and other accommodation along the track. Individual sections can be tackled as day rides, with boat shuttles back to Picton and the track is accessible year-round.
“The beauty of the Queen Charlotte is its versatility; you can ride all of it or just a section depending on your ability and time available,” says Anakiwa guesthouse owner, Tanya Jacks, “The trail can be challenging in areas, but the stunning views, varied bush, and great Marlborough hospitality are definitely worth the effort.”
Highlights
- Explore historic Meretoto/Ship Cove
- Climb to panoramic views over Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru sounds
- Tackle steep downhill sections with exhilarating switchbacks
- Ride through native Kiwi bush at the water’s edge
- The ride is rich in birdlife. Look for the korimako/bellbird, tui and kererū/wood pigeon (among others) in the forest, and for seabirds, such as the takahikare-moana/white-faced storm petrel, and kororā/little blue penguins, from shore
- Overnight in beautiful natural surrounds in lodges and campsites along the track
Tasman’s Great Taste Trail Great Ride
Distance: 200km 3-5 days
Grading: Easy/Intermediate (Grade 1-3)
Bike: Touring, MTB, e-bike. Bike hire/tours: Cycle Nelson
Getting there: Nelson is the gateway to the trail, served by flights from around New Zealand and two hours’ drive from Picton, for North Island ferry connections.
Trail conditions: Tasman’s Great Taste Trail Notices
Looping around the Nelson Tasman region, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, part of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, is a largely off-road cycling adventure through a compelling variety of coastal and hinterland backdrops at the top of the country’s South Island.
The Trail can be ridden as a whole, over three to five days, using Nelson and other seaside settlements like Māpua and Kaiteriteri as overnight bases, or as several day rides, each offering distinct experiences of the region.
“The Great Taste Trail is tailor-made for cyclists who seek both adventure and tranquility,” says Chris Whitaker, from Cycle Nelson, “Taking you through diverse landscapes, from coast to rolling hills and valleys and introducing you to variety of regional flavours, including craft beer, cider and wine.”
The Great Taste Trail’s Sparkling Coastline section is a captivating day ride and a perfect start if cycling the whole route, reaching 80km between Richmond, near Nelson, to gorgeous Kaiteriteri Beach, a gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.
This scenic section first rounds Waimea inlet, with its profusion of wading and seabirds, then passes behind the beaches of Moturoa/Rabbit Island before a short ferry ride takes cyclists to Māpua Wharf, with its waterside cafes, restaurants, and brewery. From here the trail skirts Tasman Bay/Te Tai-o-Aorere, affording great views of the coastline, through Motueka, to Kaiteriteri, via a 3km easy-grade mountain bike track.
The Back & Beyond is the thrilling next segment, running for 63km from Riwaka inland toward the Baton Valley, named after runaway 19th-century sailor, Batteyn Norton, who once absconded here. This remote valley offers a journey rich in history and character. It’s an ideal overnight stop, giving cyclists the chance to break up the ride while soaking in the atmosphere of the back country. After crossing the Baton River swing bridge, the trail climbs up Baton Saddle, with outstanding views over Kahurangi National Park, then heads over the Wangapeka River to Tapawera village, in the heart of hop country.
The 31km Rural Tasman stage leaves Tapawera, passing through the echoing 1.4km-long Spooners Tunnel, continuing on the historic rail line through forest and farmlands to Wakefield.
The easy 34km Town & Country section returns cyclists to Nelson. The trail threads through Brightwater, with its Lord Rutherford memorial, honouring the Kiwi scientist who first split the atom, then crosses the Waimea River and reaches Richmond, with its winery and brewery, before finally tracking alongside Waimea inlet to Nelson, where cyclists can celebrate completing the trail in New Zealand’s craft beer brewing capital.
Highlights
- Add time in Abel Tasman National Park and paddle to Split Apple Rock with Waka Abel Tasman
- Ride the Southern Hemisphere’s longest disused rail tunnel, the 1352m Spooners Tunnel, near Wakefield
- Taste delicious locally grown fruits, from cherries and apples to boysenberries, as you pass through the region’s orchards
- Travel through New Zealand’s hop growing country, sampling fine craft beers along the way
- Visit The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, near Nelson, to encounter native birds, including rare kākāriki parakeets
The Coppermine Trail Great Ride
Distance: 35-43km, 4-6 hours
Grading: Intermediate, 3-4
Bike: MTB, e-MTB. Bike hire/tours: Cycle Nelson
Getting there: Nelson, at the top of South Island, is the gateway to Coppermine Trail. Nelson airport has flights from around New Zealand and the city’s a scenic two-hour drive from Picton, with its North Island ferry connections.
Trail conditions: Coppermine Trail notices
The Coppermine Trail, part of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, is one of the country’s most accessible back country mountain bike rides. It is an exciting day-ride that climbs into the mountains behind Nelson before descending sharply toward Maitai Dam and looping back through the valley into town. Opened in 2011 as the Dun Mountain Trail, it was renamed The Coppermine, in homage to the mid 19th century industry that arose around the Mineral Belt, above Nelson.
To begin, the trail follows New Zealand’s first railway, built to transport chromite to the port, rising through native beech forest and remnants of the area’s mining history before reaching Coppermine Saddle. This is the trail’s highpoint, at 878m, with spectacular views over the mountains and nearby coast.
From here, it is a quite technical but exhilarating downhill mountain bike single track (grade 4), with tight (bermed) turns and loose rocky sections, running for 9.6km to the dam. The final 13km leg follows the Maitai river and winds through the valley back into Nelson.
“The Coppermine Trail is genuinely world-class,” enthuses Chris Whitaker, from Cycle Nelson, “It’s a beautiful flowy trail running through diverse landscapes and offering stunning views. It’s hands-down the region’s best mountain bike day-ride.”
Highlights
- Skirt the fringes of The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, just outside Nelson, which includes New Zealand’s largest population of the indigenous Kākāriki parrot
- Cycle the repurposed Dun Mountain line, New Zealand’s oldest railway, opened in 1852
- Climb to 360-degree views over Nelson and Tasman Bay/Te Tai-o-Aorere at Coppermine Saddle
- Flow downhill through diverse rocky and native-clad landscapes to the Maitai Dam
- Ride through native beech forest and alongside the bush-lined Maitai river
Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride
Distance: 33km 3-5 hours
Grading: Easy/Intermediate (Grade 2-3)
Bike: MTB, e-bike. Bike hire/tours: Mountain Bike Rotorua
Getting there: Whakarewarewa Forest is ten minutes’ drive from Rotorua, with multiple starting points including Te Pūtake o Tawa carpark, en route to Tikitapu and Waipa.
Whakarewarewa Forest Loop, the newest of the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, is an enthralling mountain bike day-ride through Rotorua’s dramatic volcanic backyard.
Opened in 2021, Whakarewarewa Forest Loop follows 33km of singletrack through native bush and Californian coastal redwoods, offering wonderful vistas of Lake Rotorua and Tikitapu, and a palpable sense of the area’s long Māori heritage, detailed in artworks and storyboards along the way.
From the start at Te Pūtake o Tawa car park, where carvings tell the stories of the local Tūhourangi people, this Great Ride remains closely connected to Te Ao Māori (the Māori world), following their ancient pathways first to Tikitapu, where the trail threads through native forest along the lakeshore. This first 14km section continues through a redwood grove and then climbs to a fun descent to Te Ara Ahi.
From here, it is an easy, short ride down to Waipa, a good lunch spot with hot tubs for a reviving soak. The final 10.5km leg begins by passing a bubbling mud pool after which this section gets its name, Te Pikitanga ki Whangapipiro, before ascending to views of Lake Rotorua and its surrounding caldera, then descending to pine forest and returning to Te Pūtake o Tawa.
“The stunning scenery paired with world-famous flow riding of Rotorua already makes the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop a must-do,” says Takurua Mutu, from Mountain Bike Rotorua, who has ridden trails all around the world, “but what truly sets it apart is the storytelling woven into its fabric through artworks and the virtual guiding app, which fills your journey with our deeply resonant Māori cultural history.”
Highlights
- Enjoy outstanding views of Rotorua’s volcanic lakeland
- Cycle through towering Californian redwood forest
- Experience Māori culture at Te Pūtake o Tawa hub and in artworks along the trail
- Have a swim at Tikitapu (Blue Lake) or pause at Waipa MTB hub to soak in the hot tubs
- Pass bubbling geothermal mud pools and wafting steam vents
