The policy is designed to help establish expectations on the type of e-bikes allowed on Great Rides, to improve safety for all trail users and to help guide individual trails and their operators.

It is in response to the rising number of e-bike sales and the fact that e-bike users are becoming the predominant riders on trails.

“E-bikes are an enjoyable way to ride and on some trails about 90 percent of bike hires are e-bikes," says general manager Janet Purdey.

E-bikes enable people with less riding experience and fitness to explore the Great Rides and other trails that fall under Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails. 

“They allow existing cyclists to continue cycling despite age or health impacts. They also enable groups of friends to continue to ride together no matter what type of bike they ride, their cycling ability or fitness.”

In a nutshell Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails Inc e-bike policy allows pedal-assisted cycles on all Great Rides.

Pedal-assisted cycles can also be used on any other trails and cycle ways (off-road sections) under Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails.  

Pedal-assisted cycles are defined as cycles with auxiliary electric motors with a maximum power not exceeding 300W and are designed to be primarily propelled by the muscular energy of the rider.

The policy does not apply to e-adapt bikes or the use of e-bikes on the trails for management purposes.

Because e-bikes tend to be ridden slightly faster with potential for more accidents, new e-bike users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their bikes before heading onto the trails.

Riders must also be mindful that they must adhere to standard mountain bike code of conduct and e-bike etiquette.