New Zealand is one of the most picturesque countries in the world, and it´s no wonder why so many people from around the globe flock to this gorgeous island. If you are planning a trip to New Zealand any time soon, here are the top three New Zealand bicycle tours that may interest you.
You’re at your desk, thinking of the many wonderful places you could visit by bike when you come to what must be a universal conclusion: New Zealand would make an excellent biking destination. It seems that others have had this idea too, and a number of tour companies have been started in the region. All are vying to show tourists their version of the country best by bike.
New Zealand is a great place to mountain bike, with an incredible amount to offer. The most advanced riders can challenge themselves on some of the best trails in the world, on which riders have placed on the podium at World Cups. But even for more casual riders, there are hundreds of trails and tracks that invite them to explore the natural beauty of this island country.
New Zealand Bicycle Tours
We have three New Zealand bicycle tours ready and waiting for you to enjoy — all of which are sure to fulfill your tourist requirements. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a heart-pumping experience, or want to take the scenic route, we have something for everyone.
1. New Zealand Multi-Adventure Tour
Backroads’ New Zealand Multi-Adventure Tour combines biking, walking, and sightseeing into a 9-day excursion. You’ll stay in hotels with cozy beds and breathe in the fresh New Zealand air, go on an incredible journey while marveling at the natural wonders of the South Pacific.
You can select your preferred Backroads bike on the journey – performance, touring, or electric. Backroad will provide you with all of the equipment and gear you need to make your trip comfortable, safe, and fun.
On the first day of one of the best New Zealand bicycle tours, gear up for an unforgettable adventure in an iconic New Zealand landscape. Travel to Arthur’s Pass, soaking up views of the diverse landscapes and lush native flora along the trail. Settle in at a wilderness lodge and enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Alps while enjoying your dinner with a glass of local wine.
Day 2 and 3 are the most adventurous days of the tour, as you bike through glacial valleys, rainforests, and the dramatic Tasman Sea. You will follow tranquil roads to Hokitika, where you can visit jade carvers and craft vendors before biking through old-growth forests. The tour ends with a few hours at Franz Josef Glacier in Westland National Park — the receding face of this natural wonder is a sight to behold.
Cycle through coastal villages and past waterfalls to the quaint town of Okarito. Take a helicopter flight over glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and rainforest valleys for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at a luxury resort, which features a sauna, private hot tubs, and beautiful views of the Okarito Lagoon.
On days four and five, go for a walk along the edge of Lake Matheson, where you can see reflections of the region’s iconic peaks on its pristine water. Then, kick back with a drink at the lodge and enjoy time talking with your fellow travelers.
Spend two more days biking along New Zealand’s wild, untamed coastline to Jackson Bay, a sleepy fishing village that overlooks the country’s largest waterfall. Then head out into the Haast World Heritage area, home to glaciers and mountains that stretch up into the sky.
On your last two days, ride through the beautiful scenery of Central Otago in a Pinot Noir region. Follow the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers past grapevine-covered hills to Queenstown, a town overflowing with adventure. Raft down the Kawarau River for a unique view of the exotic plants and animals native to the area.
What are you waiting for? Book now!
If you’re not a fan of New Zealand but love the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best bicycle tours in Colorado. These tours are sure to get your blood pumping with breathtaking views and ample photo opportunities.
2. North Island Timber Trail
Escape Adventures’ North Island Timber Trail will take you on an adventure like no other. This is the ultimate 7-day New Zealand experience, combining everything from cycling to hiking and spa visits.
Trips are customizable — choose your level of adventure, whether to bring friends or go solo and at an inn that fits your needs. No matter which package you choose, you’ll be immersed in New Zealand’s natural beauty and diverse terrain.
The North Island/Timber Trail trip is the ultimate sui generis experience. With unparalleled service and class, this cycling and hiking adventure offers you a lifetime memory that will never be forgotten.
New Zealand’s North Island is an amazing place, the world in miniature. It has Hawaii-like islands, Switzerland-like hills, and plenty of friendly people. It has everything from ancient trees to plunging waterfalls. Geysers, friendly people, beer, and even flightless birds. There are also about 50-80 million sheep.
Visiting New Zealand’s North Island can be an unforgettable experience. The diverse topography and abundant ecosystem make the island a must-see in its own right, but seeing it from above just takes it to the next level. With 40% greater visibility on average, life is great — and seeing these sights from on high only enhances that.
Huka Falls in New Zealand is a sight that will leave visitors speechless—58,117-gallons of water are showered over the cliff face every second. This natural wonder attracts tourists from across the globe to witness its natural beauty and lush greenery.
There’s a great narrative to be found on the Timber Trail, especially when you’re out there with your bike. The trail is built on forgotten loggers’ roads, and it runs right through the midst of the giant trees they used to cut down years ago, with all kinds of interesting history about the area’s logging industry.
With every step, the immaculate rainforest envelops you. There are no trails to follow. Instead, you’re surrounded by giant ferns and exotic plants that look as if they’ve been plucked from Lord of the Rings. The incessant humidity is perfect for steam rising from the earth, which adds another mystical element to your experience. It’s a portal straight into Middle Earth — you’ll never want to leave this place.
This sounds like a fantastic New Zealand bicycle tour, doesn’t it? You can book North Island Timber Trail at Escape Adventures now and you’ll have the best time of your life.
If you’re not ready for an amazing ride in New Zealand, we’ve got the best bicycle tours France offers are right here.
3. Tour De Great Taste Trail
The Great Taste Trail is a series of cycling holidays in New Zealand’s South Island to give riders the opportunity to experience the country at a leisurely pace. From Nelson, the tour takes riders on a slow and leisurely cruise through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque wine and food regions. The journey is full of spectacular scenery and quaint stops at local food producers — it’s sure to be a memorable trip for any cyclist.
Touring New Zealand is a dream vacation activity for many cyclists. In fact, the country even became the top choice among cyclists in TripAdvisor’s annual Travelers’ Choice Destination Awards. After all, what more could a cyclist ask for? The fabled landscapes of New Zealand are a cyclist’s delight: mountains, forests, beaches, and wineries abound.
Warm, sunny days and cool nights — this is the perfect climate for cycling. The Great Taste Trail is one of the best New Zealand bicycle tours that’ll let you explore the country with nothing more than your own two feet. Whether you’re a novice to the sport or an experienced cyclist, the Nelson region’s track has something for you.
You’ll cycle the entirety of arguably New Zealand’s most celebrated cycle trail. You’ll ride the main loop of the Great Taste Trail, completing a total of 159 km (99 mi) over 6 days. The trail is graded as easy to intermediate, with some hill sections; a great way to build endurance and get in shape on your vacation!
In this fully guided tour, you will taste some of the best local wines while enjoying the majestic Ocean and Mountain views. Guided by an enthusiastic local team, you will have a short drive to the cellar door for a fun tasting experience with your group. Book your tour today!
If you’re not ready for a bicycle tour in New Zealand, you can look at the best bicycle trails in Florida we made in a separate article for your convenience.
Conclusion
New Zealand is a small island nation that’s a veritable paradise for anyone who loves to cycle for sport or leisure. Cycling across its roads can be an inspiring and revitalizing way to see the country, but safety should never be compromised.
New Zealand has long been one of the most popular cycling destinations globally, with cycle tracks built virtually everywhere — from city centers to national parks. A cycling tour on any route is bound to run into other cyclists.
We’ve given you a great rundown of our top three tours — with so many tours to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. We hope that we’ve given you the information that you need to find and book the best tours for your trip.
