New Zealand's Great (Bike) Rides

In April 2009, the New Zealand government gave the green light for a national cycleway project to be built in New Zealand. Regional cycling tracks and trails dubbed the Great Rides will ultimately unite to form a national cycle network.

This exciting new tourist attraction has been inspired by the success of existing New Zealand bike trails, such as the Otago Central Rail Trail and international cycling routes, such as Canada's Route Verte. The Route Verte completed in 2007, is a 4,000 kilometres long network of cycle paths which not only helped to attract visitors to the area but was promoted as a healthy outdoor recreational pursuit for locals. (It is now regarded as among the ten best bicycle routes in the world by the National Geographic Society.)

Regional Cycling Tracks

The regional cycling tracks may be modelled on the Otago Central Rail Trail. This cycling and walking track (suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders) was established on 150 kilometres of the disused Otago Central Railway line. This cycling trail has become so popular that bookings are now recommended for accommodation en route.

Stops along the rail trail were determined by the original branch link stops and accommodation ranges from backpacker and hostel accommodation to refurbished period buildings and luxury hotels. The Rail Trail is suitable for all levels of cyclists as it has no steep sections and offers a great family holiday experience between five and seven days.

The Great Rides

With support and endorsement from the New Zealand Prime Minister (also the Tourism Minister), work has already begun to finalise the routes of the first Great Rides, with an inventory of nationwide cycleways and trails, railway corridors and ‘paper’ roads being taken.

It is envisaged that the Great Rides (much as the Great Walks for hikers and trampers) will include:

• Routes determined by existing cycle ways, facilities and existing tourism attractions
• Strongly branded signage and maps will help cyclists navigate the cycleways
• Appeal to varying levels of cycling proficiency
• Accommodation for a variety of cycling styles
• Appeal to families for safe and enjoyable cycling holiday opportunities.

Cycling in New Zealand Now

Cycling in New Zealand already offers visitors and local holidaymakers a wonderfully refreshing and healthy way to experience the unique scenery and appeal of the country.

Find out more about existing cycling tours, trails and biking adventure below:

• Bike hire and rental cycles
• Cycle and mountain bike tours
• Otago Central Rail Trail
• Auckland Northwestern Cycleway
• Little River Rail Trail

All cycling tours and rental bikes can be viewed and booked online.

Northwestern Cycleway (Auckland)
This is a partly-on and partly-off road cycle route connecting Auckland Central Business District with Waitakere City, running along the northwestern motorway.

Little River Rail Trail (Christchurch)
This is a cycling and walking track running along the old Little River Branch railway between Motukarara and Little River, also between Prebbleton and Lincoln.