_{Lake Pukaki is on the Alps 2 Ocean Great Ride. Photo: Hedgehog House}

1          Explore incredible natural worlds 

The 23 Great Rides venture deep into many of New Zealand’s most memorable landscapes – from mountains to sea, forest to farmland, untouched wetlands to the mystical volcanic plateau.

You’ll see ancient trees, alpine rock gardens, pristine lakes and glittering beaches. You’ll thread through remote river valleys surrounded by soaring, snow-capped peaks.

And you’ll encounter charming birdlife, lazy seals, sparkly glow worms and leggy insects like weta and cave spiders.  

_{The Remutaka Cycle Trail follows a historic railway. Photo: Caleb Smith}

2          Discover New Zealand’s history

Known in Māori as Ngā Haerenga (The Journeys), many of the Great Rides follow routes forged by early travellers – Māori hunters and gatherers, European explorers and surveyors, miners, railway builders and other pioneers.

They traverse greenstone trails, bridleways, tramways, railways and high-country tracks, reaching captivating places such as mountain huts, historic homesteads, old gold towns and handsomely carved marae.

Along the way, their stories are brought to life through evocative information panels. 

_{The Hawke's Bay Trails Great Ride Puketapu Loop is an easy but fun ride. Photo: Hawke's Bay Trails}

3          There’s a ride for everyone

Most  trails are easy to intermediate, meaning there’s a ride for almost every age and ability.

In general, multi-day trails are best suited to fitter, more experienced riders, but almost all trails can be broken up into shorter trips.

There's easy rides the whole family can enjoy, to all-day adventures for those with more stamina. Mountain bikers will find plenty of challenging singletracks to suit them too.

_{Holiday parks are ideally located near many Great Rides. Photo: Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park}

4          Park up 'n' ride!

Holiday parks and cycling go hand-in-hand with green spaces to park your van and beds for every budget.

From basic cabins to flash motel units there are holiday parks close to all of our Great Rides.

Many are "cycle hubs" with bike-friendly facilities and the low-down on the best places to ride. They're the ideal spot for groups and family get-togethers too.

_{Te Puia Geothermal Wonderland. Photo: Te Puia}

5          Get off-trail and try something new

They say variety is the spice of life, and our Great Rides offer plenty of that.

Many trails pass by or near must-see attractions and activities. Go star-gazing in Tekapō, kayaking in Abel Tasman, jet boating on the Whanganui River or see the incredible geothermal parks around Rotorua.

For the brave and adventurous, you can even go bungy jumping or skydiving in Queenstown.

_{Riders can take time at at Clifton on the Hawke's Bay Trails. Photo: Hawke's Bay Trails}

6          Eat and drink your way around

After burning all those calories on the trails, reward yourself with the countless delicious food and drink options off-trail.

Savour juicy, seasonal fruit from roadside stalls or scoops of freshly churned gelato. Sample beer from craft breweries, or go wine tasting around the country’s top terroir.

Indulge in heavenly home baking in countryside cafes, or head to urban eateries to dine on refined cuisine featuring prime local ingredients.

_{Logistics sorted on the Whanganui River. Photo: Mountains to Sea}

7          Take it easy and let the locals help

Enjoy a hassle-free holiday by letting the locals sort your logistics.

New Zealand’s cycle trail network is well-supported by people eager to help you get the most out of your adventure.

There are bike shops, hire depots, shuttles, bike-friendly accommodation and tour companies that offer everything from independent bike tours to fully guided multi-day trips which include meals, accommodation and luggage transfers.

_{Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Photo: Chris McLennan}

8          Experience all seasons

Most trails can be ridden year-round, with each season bringing new aspects of nature and colours to the fore.

While summer is a popular time to ride, spring, autumn and winter are excellent alternatives for their cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Many trails are wonderful whatever time of year, especially those backdropped by snowy mountains brought into sharp focus through crystal-clear air.

_{Old Ghost Road. Photo: Katalyst Media}

9        Soak up the sights at your pace 

A bit of puffing and pedalling won’t stop you from relaxing and enjoying the ride.

Cycling is a rewarding way to spend your days, allowing you to see the sights while making the most of great scenery, good company and much more along the way.

As they say, getting there is half the fun. In the case of the Great Rides, it’s all about the journey – that’s why we call them Ngā Haerenga.
 

_{Lake Dunstan Great Ride. Photo: R Mackay}

10        Great Rides feel great

It's all about health and wellbeing and escaping from the busy-ness of life. Few activities make you feel as happy and free as riding a bike.

With the sun on your face, the wind at your back and blood pumping around your body, you’ll feel refreshed, re-energised and restored.

Then there's the satisfaction that by exploring by bike you’re leaving a light footprint, supporting local communities and businesses and getting to know the real Aotearoa New Zealand.