Message from the Prime Minister

New Zealand is an outstanding visitor destination, and there’s no doubt that one of the best ways to explore it is by cycling.

Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail is designed to showcase the very best of our country – our spectacular scenery, unique culture, and first-class Kiwi hospitality.

We’re committed to giving visitors a friendly welcome and making sure they have a lot of fun along the way.

As you’ll see on this website, the trails cater for a range of cycling abilities from beginners and families to more experienced and competitive riders.

There are all sorts of options to stop along the way, head off the beaten track, and experience New Zealand.

Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail emerged as one of the ideas from the Job Summit in February 2009.

The National-led Government embraced the idea as a way to build a valuable new asset for the tourism industry, with lasting economic benefits.

In Budget 2009 we committed $50 million over three years to this project. We invited proposals for trails from local authorities and communities all over New Zealand, and construction began later that year.

Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail builds on our strong reputation as a premium tourism destination. It will bring important export dollars into our economy, provide a welcome boost to businesses, and create jobs in communities near the trails.

As Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, I encourage you and your family to make the most of the cycle trails. They are designed to show you some of our very best sights and make sure you have lots of fun along the way.

I hope this website gives you some great tips, ideas, and inspiration to get you started.

Best wishes,

Rt Hon John Key

Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism