Get off the beaten track
There are 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand. Get off the beaten track on the six Great Rides below. They offer everything from exploration of many varied landscapes to cultural enrichment.
The Hauraki Rail Trail Great Ride is less than two hours' drive from Auckland and easily accessible from Hamilton and Tauranga. The central North Island's Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride is 10 minutes’ drive from Rotorua while you can fly to Auckland, Wellington or Hamilton and self-drive to Ruapehua for the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride.
As well as flights on regional networks, the Interislander connects the North and South Islands. Jump on in Wellington and hop off in Picton. From there you can water taxi to the start of the Queen Charlotte Track Great Ride.
Almost two hours' drive from Picton is Nelson, where you'll find Tasman's Great Taste Trail and the Coppermine Trail. Flying into Nelson is another option.
Explore North Island
Not far from Auckland is the Hauraki Rail Trail Great Ride, which features spooky railway tunnels, gold mining sites and waterfalls. Check out off-trail activities.
In the central North Island, the fabulous Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride is set among towering Redwoods in one of the country's mountain biking meccas. There's plenty to see and experience off-trail.
Nearby, on the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride you'll discover magical forests, epic views over a volcanic plateau and two national parks. There's lots of things to do in the Ruapehu area, and in the Whanganui area.
Explore South Island
At the very top of the South Island in the stunning Marlborough Sounds is the Queen Charlotte Track Great Ride. It boasts spectacular views, deep blue bays, beaches, and forest. There's plenty to explore in Marlborough.
Two hours away is Nelson, and Tasman's Great Taste Trail Great Ride. Often done in short hops or day rides, the trail takes in bird-filled estuaries, sandy coastlines, forests, art galleries, fruit stalls, cafes, craft beer pubs and winery restaurants. The shorter Coppermine Trail nearby is a thrilling day-ride for mountain bikers. Check out what to do off-trail and plan your stay in the Nelson-Tasman region.