Cycle spots in New Zealand are popular, so be prepared to hop on a bike when visiting. You will then have to hire a bike for your cycling adventure. Check out one of these top spots favored by locals and tourists alike.
Cycle Spots In New Zealand:
When planning your cycling adventure, renting a bike is easy, with many shops and rental companies available. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or simply looking for a leisurely ride, New Zealand has something for everyone.
Rotorua:
The Rotorua thermal region is known worldwide as a mountain-biking destination. You can hire a bike at several local shops and receive maps of the over 70 kilometres of tracks. The sulfur smell is strong here, but if you can handle the smell, you will love these cycling trails. The Whakarewarewa Forest has hours of riding that bring you into a thick forest. You will see lakes, geothermal activity, and tons of wildlife.
Wairarapa Vineyard Trails:
The company March Hare Cycling offers a cycling tour from October to April that will bring you to several vineyards to sample the local products. You will see local vineyards and family-owned olive groves. Chat with the owners while you sample their crop off your bike. The trails are mostly off-road and, at times, follow the Ngaruroro River.
Pan Pac Eskdale Mountain Bike Park:
The Pan Pac Eskdale Mountain Bike Park is one of the biggest mountain bike parks in New Zealand. The park is in the Tangoio Forest, and you will enjoy a breathtaking view from the top peak if you persevere. This park is on private property, so you must obtain a permit to ride these trails. All of the trails are rated, and there are signposts at the entrances and exits.
Queen Charlotte Track:
On the northern coast of the South Island is the Queen Charlotte Track in Marlborough. This track is meant to be a multiple-day ride. It can be done comfortably in two days, but you can stretch it out if you like. There is a campground for the night, or you can up your comfort level and stay in a lodge. There are even restaurants along the way. The total track is 71 kilometres. Expect to see plenty of native bush and wildlife on this trail.
Otago Central Rail Trail:
The popular Otago Rail Trail is said to have started the cycle-touring revolution in New Zealand. It is still New Zealand’s most popular trail. Thousands of cyclists ride the three-day trail each year. The 150-kilometre trail follows an old railway line, and you will learn about gold mining history as you ride. There are no steep hills, so it is perfect for beginners.
Richmond Trail:
This trail is in Mackenzie County. The Roundhill Ski Area gives you access to the Richmond Trail. It follows an old glacial terrace, and you will see Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains. Some beginners have done this trail and simply walked a portion of it, so if you want to try it, go for it.
Make sure to bring your camera and a water bottle on all biking excursions. You will enjoy this activity here even if you didn’t come to New Zealand specifically to bike. From beginners to experts, New Zealand has trails for every skill level.
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