Relax and re-energise on the Great Rides

Published 2022-09-14

Keen to relax and re-energise while taking in some of New Zealand's best sights and scenery?

Close your eyes and imagine the blissful feeling of plunging into a natural hot pool after an easy ride through lush, native forest. Or savouring delicious local food and wine in a charming country pub after a day out on one of the world's most scenic trails.

The 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand cover the whole country from Northland to Southland, with cycling holidays and experiences to suit everyone. Read more about them in this blog, and download a map of the whole network here.

Say goodbye to the stresses of everyday life – refresh and reconnect with these Great Rides' restorative blend of relaxation, indulgence and easy riding.

Whakarewarewa Forest Loop

Looking for a holiday that’ll make you hotter, healthier and happier? Visit the volcanic and cultural wonderland of Rotorua, where the trails are terrific and the scenery out of this world.

Home to natural hot springs and spa experiences to suit everyone, Rotorua also boasts New Zealand’s latest Great Ride – the fabulous Whakarewarea Forest Loop. This two-wheeled sightseeing tour takes in the highlights of the country's mountain biking mecca, including mighty trees, inspiring art, a tree-top walk, cafes and even a brewbar with hot tubs in a lush garden setting. So, stop dreaming and start planning for a holiday full of riding, rest and relaxation in New Zealand’s cycling hot spot!

Find out more, and plan your Whakarewarewa Forest Loop adventures here.

Well-earned refreshments and a restorative soak amongst the trees at the Secret Spot (Graeme Murray).

Riding amongst native trees on the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop (Graeme Murray)

Otago Central Rail Trail

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure that will expand your horizons and lift your spirits. New Zealand’s original Great Ride, the Otago Central Rail Trail has never been better!

This multi-day, ebike-friendly adventure is splendid in every season. There’s also plenty to see and do along the way, whether you want linger over lunch in country cafes, soak up the region’s rich history, or just admire the classic ‘Central’ scenery that has made this ride so famous. It also lends itself perfectly to leisurely day-rides taking in memorable sights such as heritage buildings and railway landmarks, along with friendly towns where you’ll find characterful accommodation, cafes and pubs.

Find out more, and plan your Otago Central Rail Trail adventures here.

Classic Central Otago Scenery on New Zealand's original Great Ride (James Jubb/Tourism Central Otago).

Fine wine and great food – an essential part of your Rail Trail adventure (Tourism Central Otago).

Queenstown Trail

Soak up picture-perfect Southern Lakes scenery, and indulge yourself, on this network of cycle trails linking Queenstown's multitude of attractions.

This marvellous mix of lakeside paths, country lanes, quiet roads and cross-country cycleways is a wonderful way to explore Queenstown, Arrowtown and the wine-soaked Gibbston Valley. Treat yourself along the way with tastes of Central Otago’s famous flavours at countless cafes and cellar door restaurants, or lose yourself in the area's fascinating pioneering stories at historic gold mining sites, historic buildings and bridges. If you're looking to seriously re-energise, why not get a shot of adrenaline and take the big leap? The Queenstown Trail goes right past the Kawarau Bridge – home to world's original bungy. Go on, we dare you...!

Find out more, and plan your Queenstown Trail adventures here.