Motorcycles and Quad Bikes in New Zealand

Enjoy the thrill of the machine and a sense of discovery as you venture through some of New Zealand's beautiful scenery on a motorcycle. Or enjoy a fun-filled quad bike ride.

Tourism Activities: Motorcycles | Quad Bikes | 4x4, Offroad and Rally Driving | Motorcycle Tours

New Zealand Motorcycling

New Zealand motorcycling lets you ride through native forest, single track and high country farmland or experience the freedom and fresh air of our wide open roads.

Guides are available to show you the best of two wheeled motoring in New Zealand, or you can rent a bike and set your own pace and itinerary. Tour packages, with or without a guide, are available from major cities. Like rental cars, one way hire is available in some instances but restrictions may apply.

New Zealand offers trails and roads to suit beginners to experienced riders. You will need to bring your full motorcycle licence or international driving permit with you. You'll find more information on licences and permits in the transport section.

Send a motorcycle and quad biking related E-Postcard to your friends.

New Zealand Road Safety

Self-driving holidays are one if the most relaxing ways of enjoying New Zealand's landscape. Many of our roads are scenic and traffic is low when compared to international standards.

It is important not to underestimate driving times. Although distances may seem short, our roads often include hilly or winding terrain, which slow down your journey.

If you're used to driving in the city, you should take care when driving on the open country roads:

• In New Zealand, all motorists drive on the left hand side of the road.
• All road distances are measured in kilometres.
• When the traffic light is red, you must stop. There is no left turn rule as in North America.
• The speed limit on the open road is 100 kilometres per hour (approx 60 miles per hour). In urban areas the usual speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour.
• Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times, in both front and rear seats.
• Make sure that you have plenty of sleep before a long drive. Take regular breaks—one every two hours and when you feel sleepy.
• Do not drink alcohol before driving in New Zealand—drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced.

Cycling and Motorcycle Rules:

• Helmets for riders of cycles and motorbikes must be worn at all times.
• Rear and front lights on cycles are required at night.
• Motorbikes should drive with a headlight on at all times.
• Cycling is not permitted on motorways.

International Driving Licences and Permits

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Recent law changes mean all drivers, including visitors from other countries, must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 21 years.

Make sure your driver's licence is current. If your licence is not in English, you should bring an English translation with you, or obtain an IDP. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an IDP.

Check out the New Zealand Land Transport Safety Authority Web site for details on the New Zealand Road Code, as well as cycle safety and other general motoring information. Driving Safely in the Scenic South has particular information about driving conditions in this area.

Check out this handy New Zealand distance calculator.

Tourism Activities: Motorcycles | Motorcycle Tours

Quad Bikes

Quad bikes are the workhorses for today's New Zealand farmers, they are also a fun way to negotiate and explore New Zealand's wild terrain. Quad bike tours are available for Northland's Ninety-Mile Beach, Cape Kidnappers' Gannet colony, exploring Taupo and Nelson's backcountry, and more.

Before heading off you will be given all the tuition required to learn to operate and manoeuvre your quad bike, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Safety is paramount at all locations, quality bikes and all safety gear is provided. All you need to bring is some warm clothing, sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure!

Enjoy an adventure through New Zealand's spectacular environment on a quad bike (ATV - All Terrain Vehicle).

Tourism Activities: Quad Bikes

Send a motorcycle and quad biking related E-Postcard to your friends.