Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride
The freedom of travelling by motorhome can get you closer to nature. For some, that will mean parking up by the beach every night. For others, it’ll mean spending time in the mountains on hiking tracks. For you, it could involve two wheels — on a bicycle.
Our bike trails road trip itinerary will help you plan a bike holiday that features the most incredible riding trails in the North Island. Between Northland and Wellington, you’ll find trails constructed especially for biking — and scenery that ranges from spectacular to extraordinary.
Take your pick of the best bike trails in the north, or sample a short section of each while on your motorhome or campervan holiday.
Twin Coast Cycle Trail
Hauraki Rail Trail
Motu Trails
Hawke’s Bay Trails
Great Lake Trails
Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail
Remutaka Cycle Trail
Sample the east and the west
The popular Twin Coast Cycle Trail stretches from Ōpua near the Bay of Islands to Hokianga Harbour close to the small town of Horeke. On the track, expect to see breathtaking landscapes coupled with a captivating exploration of New Zealand's earliest Māori and European settlements.
This great ride is broken up into four sections ranging in distance from 11 to 34km. The Ōpua to Kawakawa route involves the novelty of a train ride — and all you’ll need to board is a gold coin donation.
Onwards to Kaikohe, there’s a gradual incline to the highest point on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail.
Planning to cycle the entire trail? Okaihau to Horeke will either be your first or last leg — offering views down the Utakura Valley, along with a series of fun switchbacks to navigate.
Find out more about the Twin Coast Cycle Trail.
Total distance: 87km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Ōpua to Kawakawa, Kawakawa to Kaikohe, Kaikohe to Okaihau, Okaihau to Horeke
Resources: Twin Coast Cycle Trail brochure, Twin Coast Facebook page for all weather-related trail updates
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The myth of the tāniwha
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A cycle journey through time
.jpg?width=647&height=432&name=Hauraki%20Rail%20Trail%20-%20Victoria%20Battery%20(Credit%20to%20Brent%20Purcell).jpg)
Image by Brent Purcell
One of 23 great rides across New Zealand, the Hauraki Rail Trail features plenty of gentle terrain to suit all ages and abilities. With almost 200km of track along five sections, you can easily pick and choose which part you’d like to cycle — or just ride the whole thing.
A short drive from Auckland, the official start point is Kaiaua. It’s close to Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre where you can watch flocks of shorebirds enjoying the sea breeze.
The trail heads south and then East to Thames before tracking south again to Paeroa. The Karangahake Gorge is a real highlight — where you can cycle through wild nature and past the remnants of human activity.
You’ll continue tracking south via Te Aroha to eventually reach Matamata, a region of rolling farmland and the permanent Hobbiton movie set.
Get all the information you need about the Hauraki Rail Trail.
Historic Maritime Park and Museum — just a 1km diversion from the Rail Trail where you can also take a riverboat into Paeroa
Dramatic Karangahake Gorge — home to regenerating forest, native wildlife and the historic Karangahake Tunnel
Victoria Battery — where gold ore crushing was once the dominant industry in the area
Owharoa Falls — take a lunch break at this idyllic waterfall in the Karangahake Gorge
Te Aroha Mineral Spas — the ideal spot to soothe your aching muscles
Hobbiton movie set — what could be a better way of finishing the Hauraki Rail Trail than with a beer at the Green Dragon Inn
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also check out our South Island bike trails road trip itinerary.
Total distance: 197km
Grades: 1
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Kaiaua to Thames, Thames to Paeroa, Paeroa to Waihi, Paeroa to Te Aroha, Te Aroha to Matamata
Resources: One day rides, Hauraki Rail Trail Official Guide
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One of NZ’s oldest railway corridors The Hauraki Rail Trail dates back to 1898 — so in many ways you’re biking through history. Take in the heritage towns and buildings, cycle through the 1100m long railway tunnel, view a working mine in Waihi and detour to Captain Cook’s landing spot. |
Bike the backcountry
.jpg?width=669&height=457&name=Motu%20Road%20Trail%20(Image%20by%20Tourism%20Bay%20of%20Plenty).jpg)
Image by Tourism Bay of Plenty
The beauty of the Motu Trails is that you can decide on biking a few easy going oceanfront routes or plan a multiday coast-to-coast adventure.
Four main trails each offer something a little different. Embrace downhill magic through fern-filled forests to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and White Island — or choose rolling high country farmland and serene native bush.
Trail maintenance, including environmental restoration, is undertaken by the Motu Trails Charitable Trust. Essentially a volunteer group, they take pride in taking great care of managing the trails — for locals and visitors alike.
Learn more about the Motu Trails.
.jpg?width=640&height=426&name=Motu%20Pakihi%20Track%20Cycle%20Trail%20Bridge%20(Image%20by%20Tourism%20Bay%20of%20Plenty).jpg)
Image by Tourism Bay of Plenty
Views of White and Whale Islands — from certain vantage points on the Dunes Trail
Motu Falls — worth the 5km side journey off the Motu Road Trail
Motu and Meremere Hill Summits — if you make the effort to get to either of these high points, the rewards are spectacular
Native NZ birds — kererū, tūī and the New Zealand falcon (kārearea) can be spotted on the Motu Trails
Rere Falls and Rockslide — perhaps the most fun you can have for free in the area, and a great way to cool off after riding
Eastwoodhill Arboretum — the country’s largest arboretum features a collection of over 3500 species of northern hemisphere trees
View our top ten New Zealand rest stops for taking a break driving between rides.
Total distance: 196km to cover all four main trails
Grades: Easy to advanced
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Dunes, Motu Road, Pakihi, Rere Falls
Additional trails: Motu Trails Loop, Tairāwhiti-Gisborne, Otipi Road, Ōpōtiki-Ohiwa, Whakatāne-Ōhope
Resources: Motu Trails suggested itineraries
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History of the Motu Road Part of the first vehicle road between Gisborne and the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the Motu Road saw its first car in 1915. During the 1980s and 90s, the road became a renowned annual highlight of the World Championship Rally of New Zealand. The world's top rally drivers regarded its narrow, twisting nature as one of their most formidable tests. |
Ride amongst rivers, vineyards and peaks
.jpg?width=778&height=519&name=Hawke_s%20Bay%20Trail%20(Credit%20to%20Kirsten%20Simcox).jpg)
Image by Kirsten Simcox
For relaxed riding over short distances, the flat and mainly off-road Hawke’s Bay Trails meander through interesting landscapes between the coast and the nearby ranges.
The tracks are mostly a lime-sand surface and are grouped into three types of experience — water, wineries and landscapes. The water ride passes estuaries, rivers and the ocean. The winery ride goes from vineyard to cellar door. The landscapes ride offers views of incredible surroundings like Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers.
Cultural richness blended with culinary experiences make these trails stand out from others around New Zealand.
Visit Hawke’s Bay Trails for all the details you’ll need to ride.
Natural wetlands on the water ride — with both native and foreign bird species to spot
Ātea a Rangi Star Compass — find out some Māori history and how to use the star map for astro navigation
Relaxing views — take breaks at a few of the many vineyards on the winery ride
Black Barn Bistro — a premium, award-winning winery and eatery
Red Bridge Coffee — an award-winning coffee container with inviting cabinet food to keep you peddling
Sculpture stops — look out for functional art and abstract pieces in places along the tracks
Take a look at our best campervan spots for parking up on your adventure.
Total distance: Almost 200km of trails
Grades: 1-2
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Water, Marine Parade — Water, Clive to Clifton — Landscapes, Havelock North to Clive — Landscapes, Tuki Tuki River — Landscapes, Wineries
Resources: Hawke’s Bay Trails Map
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More than just trails |
Get up close to the volcano
.jpg?width=702&height=468&name=Great%20Lake%20Trail%203%20(Credit%20to%20Destination%20Great%20Lake%20Taup%C5%8D).jpg)
Image by Destination Great Lake Taupō
What could be a better way to spend time around New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake than on two wheels. The Great Lake Trails offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the region — and the thrilling downhills and fun switchbacks of the tracks.
Split into three sections, the Great Lake Trails are located on the northern and western edges of Lake Taupo. From elevated vantage points with views of snow-capped peaks, to hidden swimming spots with crystal-clear waters, rock formations show the volcanic history of the landscape.
You’ll navigate purpose-built mountain biking trails that wind through pristine native forests, lead past cascading waterfalls and come close to deep gorges. All the tracks are grade three intermediate level — so you’ll need some mountain biking experience.
Get all the info on the Great Lake Trails.
.jpg?width=646&height=431&name=Great%20Lake%20Trail%202%20(Credit%20to%20Destination%20Great%20Lake%20Taup%C5%8D).jpg)
Image by Destination Great Lake Taupō
Tieke Falls — take a break to soak up the views of the waterfall
Lake Taupo — up close on a water taxi from Waihora to Kinloch
Echo Rock — a towering, curved boulder that plays a trick on your senses
Clifftop lookouts across the lake — most prominent on the Waihora trail
Native wetlands — on the gradual downhill from Orakau to Kawakawa
Regenerating forest — along with native bush and birdlife
Views of Tongariro National Park
Jimmy Coops Lakehouse — to celebrate finishing your ride with a burger and local award-winning Lakeman beer
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also read our ten best day rides in New Zealand.
Total distance: 83km
Grades: 3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Waihaha, Waihora, Orakau to Kawakawa, Kawakawa to Kinloch, Otaketake, Whakaipo to Kinloch, Headland Loop
Resources: Great Lake Trails Facebook
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On the edge of a supervolcano Lake Taupo is situated inside the crater of a supervolcano. The geography surrounding the lake shows the remnants of past eruptions. They include the Oruanui eruption around 26,500 years ago — one of the most significant eruptions in recorded history. |
From alpine heights to coastal delights
Beginning at the foot of an active volcano, the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail traverses two national parks before meandering through rolling hill country and above secluded river gorges. This epic journey ultimately reaches its grand conclusion alongside the tranquil shores of the deep blue Tasman Sea.
Mountains to Sea is made up of eight trails. Choose to begin at the base of Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park and ride towards the west coast — or start at the sea and bike inland.
Lush native forest, memorable landscapes, old relics of the past, and the promise of the future make Mountains to Sea a must-ride. You can opt for a day adventure or cycle the entire route.
One of New Zealand’s great rides, and one of its longest, the trails wind through remote country and will take your breath away.
Check out the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail for more information.
Mount Ruapehu — take in its raw barrenness as you descend at thrilling speeds
Views of Mount Taranaki — from Mount Ruapehu as you start your ride
Tongariro National Park — biking through this UNESCO World Heritage site is a special experience
Bridge to Nowhere — an iconic remnant of a bygone era
The Whanganui River — ideally from a jet boat as you take a break from two wheels
Remnants of the past — like creepy railway tunnels, old viaducts and traditional bush camps
Heritage sites — you’ll see both Māori and European heritage in the form of marae, churches, abandoned farms and historic flour mills
In between bike rides, be sure to explore New Zealand's best hikes on your campervan holiday.
Total distance: 199-214km depending on your route
Grades: 2-4
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Ohakune Old Coach Road, Ohakune Mountain Road, Mangapurua Track, Kaiwhakauka, Whanganui River Road, Upokongaro to Tasman Sea, Fishers Track, Marton Sash and Door
Resources: Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono
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A bridge to where? Located in dense bush in the middle of the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail is the strange Bridge to Nowhere.
Constructed in the 1930s, it earned its mysterious nickname because it was intended for settlers who never actually arrived. As a result, the bridge remains isolated in the wilderness to this day. |
Pedal through time and terrain
%20.jpg?width=734&height=490&name=Remutaka%20Cycle%20Trail%20-%20Summit%20Tunnel%20(Credit%20to%20Wildfinder)%20.jpg)
Image by Wildfinder
The Remutaka Cycle Trail offers a diverse range of experiences — from traversing old railway tunnels to taking refreshing river swims. You’ll explore rugged coastlines, delve into historical sites and become immersed in native bush.
Beginning in Wellington Harbour, this varied trail meanders across the green Hutt Valley, gently ascends through the forested Remutaka Ranges and follows the rugged Wainuiomata coastline.
You’ll thoroughly enjoy the section from Maymorn to Cross Creek where relics of the railway that used to transport people by train still reside.
Browse the Remutaka Cycle Trail for further details.
%20.jpg?width=726&height=409&name=Remutaka%20Cycle%20Trail%203%20(Credit%20to%20Wildfinder)%20.jpg)
Image by Wildfinder
Cultural sites — such as Māori pa (fortified villages) and early European settlements
Remutaka incline — a section of the track with old railway bridges and tunnels like the 500m long Summit Tunnel
Views from the Siberia Gully swing bridge — a new 90m crossing that helps connect the Wairarapa with the Hutt Valley
Lake Wairarapa — the North Island’s third largest
Wairarapa Moana Wetlands — spot native bird species such as weweia (New Zealand dabchick) and pāpango (New Zealand scaup)
Ocean Beach — where classic Kiwi baches meet Cook Strait
Dolphins, orca and seals — can occasionally be seen from the Wild Coast Trail section
Total distance: 121.7km
Grades: 2-4
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Hutt River Trail, Rail Trail, Western Lake Road, Wild Coast Trail
Resources: Remutaka Cycle Trail great ride
|
The Fell system
The Remutaka Incline Railway was originally built in the late 19th Century on a steep gradient. It featured an ingenious Fell system which used a third central rail with a gripping mechanism between the two main rails.
With the Fell system in place, trains could safely ascend and descend the challenging slopes of the Remutaka Ranges — an essential transport link between the Wairarapa and Wellington. |
Your epic motorhome adventure doesn’t just have to be about driving and walking — these magical North Island trails are worth your time. Download the New Zealand great rides app from the App Store or Google Play.
Add a bike rack to your motorhome rental so you can hire bikes or take your own.
Be sure to check each ride’s official website for sections of trail that are temporarily closed due to weather events or track improvements.
Time for you to start planning your motorhome adventure to the North Island's best bike trails?
Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride
The freedom of travelling by motorhome can get you closer to nature. For some, that will mean parking up by the beach every night. For others, it’ll mean spending time in the mountains on hiking tracks. For you, it could involve two wheels — on a bicycle.
Our bike trails road trip itinerary will help you plan a bike holiday that features the most incredible riding trails in the North Island. Between Northland and Wellington, you’ll find trails constructed especially for biking — and scenery that ranges from spectacular to extraordinary.
Take your pick of the best bike trails in the north, or sample a short section of each while on your motorhome or campervan holiday.
Twin Coast Cycle Trail
Hauraki Rail Trail
Motu Trails
Hawke’s Bay Trails
Great Lake Trails
Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail
Remutaka Cycle Trail
Sample the east and the west
The popular Twin Coast Cycle Trail stretches from Ōpua near the Bay of Islands to Hokianga Harbour close to the small town of Horeke. On the track, expect to see breathtaking landscapes coupled with a captivating exploration of New Zealand's earliest Māori and European settlements.
This great ride is broken up into four sections ranging in distance from 11 to 34km. The Ōpua to Kawakawa route involves the novelty of a train ride — and all you’ll need to board is a gold coin donation.
Onwards to Kaikohe, there’s a gradual incline to the highest point on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail.
Planning to cycle the entire trail? Okaihau to Horeke will either be your first or last leg — offering views down the Utakura Valley, along with a series of fun switchbacks to navigate.
Find out more about the Twin Coast Cycle Trail.
Total distance: 87km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Ōpua to Kawakawa, Kawakawa to Kaikohe, Kaikohe to Okaihau, Okaihau to Horeke
Resources: Twin Coast Cycle Trail brochure, Twin Coast Facebook page for all weather-related trail updates
|
The myth of the tāniwha
|
A cycle journey through time
Image by Brent Purcell
One of 23 great rides across New Zealand, the Hauraki Rail Trail features plenty of gentle terrain to suit all ages and abilities. With almost 200km of track along five sections, you can easily pick and choose which part you’d like to cycle — or just ride the whole thing.
A short drive from Auckland, the official start point is Kaiaua. It’s close to Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre where you can watch flocks of shorebirds enjoying the sea breeze.
The trail heads south and then East to Thames before tracking south again to Paeroa. The Karangahake Gorge is a real highlight — where you can cycle through wild nature and past the remnants of human activity.
You’ll continue tracking south via Te Aroha to eventually reach Matamata, a region of rolling farmland and the permanent Hobbiton movie set.
Get all the information you need about the Hauraki Rail Trail.
Historic Maritime Park and Museum — just a 1km diversion from the Rail Trail where you can also take a riverboat into Paeroa
Dramatic Karangahake Gorge — home to regenerating forest, native wildlife and the historic Karangahake Tunnel
Victoria Battery — where gold ore crushing was once the dominant industry in the area
Owharoa Falls — take a lunch break at this idyllic waterfall in the Karangahake Gorge
Te Aroha Mineral Spas — the ideal spot to soothe your aching muscles
Hobbiton movie set — what could be a better way of finishing the Hauraki Rail Trail than with a beer at the Green Dragon Inn
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also check out our South Island bike trails road trip itinerary.
Total distance: 197km
Grades: 1
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Kaiaua to Thames, Thames to Paeroa, Paeroa to Waihi, Paeroa to Te Aroha, Te Aroha to Matamata
Resources: One day rides, Hauraki Rail Trail Official Guide
|
One of NZ’s oldest railway corridors The Hauraki Rail Trail dates back to 1898 — so in many ways you’re biking through history. Take in the heritage towns and buildings, cycle through the 1100m long railway tunnel, view a working mine in Waihi and detour to Captain Cook’s landing spot. |
Bike the backcountry
Image by Tourism Bay of Plenty
The beauty of the Motu Trails is that you can decide on biking a few easy going oceanfront routes or plan a multiday coast-to-coast adventure.
Four main trails each offer something a little different. Embrace downhill magic through fern-filled forests to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and White Island — or choose rolling high country farmland and serene native bush.
Trail maintenance, including environmental restoration, is undertaken by the Motu Trails Charitable Trust. Essentially a volunteer group, they take pride in taking great care of managing the trails — for locals and visitors alike.
Learn more about the Motu Trails.
Image by Tourism Bay of Plenty
Views of White and Whale Islands — from certain vantage points on the Dunes Trail
Motu Falls — worth the 5km side journey off the Motu Road Trail
Motu and Meremere Hill Summits — if you make the effort to get to either of these high points, the rewards are spectacular
Native NZ birds — kererū, tūī and the New Zealand falcon (kārearea) can be spotted on the Motu Trails
Rere Falls and Rockslide — perhaps the most fun you can have for free in the area, and a great way to cool off after riding
Eastwoodhill Arboretum — the country’s largest arboretum features a collection of over 3500 species of northern hemisphere trees
View our top ten New Zealand rest stops for taking a break driving between rides.
Total distance: 196km to cover all four main trails
Grades: Easy to advanced
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Dunes, Motu Road, Pakihi, Rere Falls
Additional trails: Motu Trails Loop, Tairāwhiti-Gisborne, Otipi Road, Ōpōtiki-Ohiwa, Whakatāne-Ōhope
Resources: Motu Trails suggested itineraries
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History of the Motu Road Part of the first vehicle road between Gisborne and the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the Motu Road saw its first car in 1915. During the 1980s and 90s, the road became a renowned annual highlight of the World Championship Rally of New Zealand. The world's top rally drivers regarded its narrow, twisting nature as one of their most formidable tests. |
Ride amongst rivers, vineyards and peaks
Image by Kirsten Simcox
For relaxed riding over short distances, the flat and mainly off-road Hawke’s Bay Trails meander through interesting landscapes between the coast and the nearby ranges.
The tracks are mostly a lime-sand surface and are grouped into three types of experience — water, wineries and landscapes. The water ride passes estuaries, rivers and the ocean. The winery ride goes from vineyard to cellar door. The landscapes ride offers views of incredible surroundings like Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers.
Cultural richness blended with culinary experiences make these trails stand out from others around New Zealand.
Visit Hawke’s Bay Trails for all the details you’ll need to ride.
Natural wetlands on the water ride — with both native and foreign bird species to spot
Ātea a Rangi Star Compass — find out some Māori history and how to use the star map for astro navigation
Relaxing views — take breaks at a few of the many vineyards on the winery ride
Black Barn Bistro — a premium, award-winning winery and eatery
Red Bridge Coffee — an award-winning coffee container with inviting cabinet food to keep you peddling
Sculpture stops — look out for functional art and abstract pieces in places along the tracks
Take a look at our best campervan spots for parking up on your adventure.
Total distance: Almost 200km of trails
Grades: 1-2
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Water, Marine Parade — Water, Clive to Clifton — Landscapes, Havelock North to Clive — Landscapes, Tuki Tuki River — Landscapes, Wineries
Resources: Hawke’s Bay Trails Map
|
More than just trails |
Get up close to the volcano
Image by Destination Great Lake Taupō
What could be a better way to spend time around New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake than on two wheels. The Great Lake Trails offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the region — and the thrilling downhills and fun switchbacks of the tracks.
Split into three sections, the Great Lake Trails are located on the northern and western edges of Lake Taupo. From elevated vantage points with views of snow-capped peaks, to hidden swimming spots with crystal-clear waters, rock formations show the volcanic history of the landscape.
You’ll navigate purpose-built mountain biking trails that wind through pristine native forests, lead past cascading waterfalls and come close to deep gorges. All the tracks are grade three intermediate level — so you’ll need some mountain biking experience.
Get all the info on the Great Lake Trails.
Image by Destination Great Lake Taupō
Tieke Falls — take a break to soak up the views of the waterfall
Lake Taupo — up close on a water taxi from Waihora to Kinloch
Echo Rock — a towering, curved boulder that plays a trick on your senses
Clifftop lookouts across the lake — most prominent on the Waihora trail
Native wetlands — on the gradual downhill from Orakau to Kawakawa
Regenerating forest — along with native bush and birdlife
Views of Tongariro National Park
Jimmy Coops Lakehouse — to celebrate finishing your ride with a burger and local award-winning Lakeman beer
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also read our ten best day rides in New Zealand.
Total distance: 83km
Grades: 3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Waihaha, Waihora, Orakau to Kawakawa, Kawakawa to Kinloch, Otaketake, Whakaipo to Kinloch, Headland Loop
Resources: Great Lake Trails Facebook
|
On the edge of a supervolcano Lake Taupo is situated inside the crater of a supervolcano. The geography surrounding the lake shows the remnants of past eruptions. They include the Oruanui eruption around 26,500 years ago — one of the most significant eruptions in recorded history. |
From alpine heights to coastal delights
Beginning at the foot of an active volcano, the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail traverses two national parks before meandering through rolling hill country and above secluded river gorges. This epic journey ultimately reaches its grand conclusion alongside the tranquil shores of the deep blue Tasman Sea.
Mountains to Sea is made up of eight trails. Choose to begin at the base of Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park and ride towards the west coast — or start at the sea and bike inland.
Lush native forest, memorable landscapes, old relics of the past, and the promise of the future make Mountains to Sea a must-ride. You can opt for a day adventure or cycle the entire route.
One of New Zealand’s great rides, and one of its longest, the trails wind through remote country and will take your breath away.
Check out the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail for more information.
Mount Ruapehu — take in its raw barrenness as you descend at thrilling speeds
Views of Mount Taranaki — from Mount Ruapehu as you start your ride
Tongariro National Park — biking through this UNESCO World Heritage site is a special experience
Bridge to Nowhere — an iconic remnant of a bygone era
The Whanganui River — ideally from a jet boat as you take a break from two wheels
Remnants of the past — like creepy railway tunnels, old viaducts and traditional bush camps
Heritage sites — you’ll see both Māori and European heritage in the form of marae, churches, abandoned farms and historic flour mills
In between bike rides, be sure to explore New Zealand's best hikes on your campervan holiday.
Total distance: 199-214km depending on your route
Grades: 2-4
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Ohakune Old Coach Road, Ohakune Mountain Road, Mangapurua Track, Kaiwhakauka, Whanganui River Road, Upokongaro to Tasman Sea, Fishers Track, Marton Sash and Door
Resources: Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono
|
A bridge to where? Located in dense bush in the middle of the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail is the strange Bridge to Nowhere.
Constructed in the 1930s, it earned its mysterious nickname because it was intended for settlers who never actually arrived. As a result, the bridge remains isolated in the wilderness to this day. |
Pedal through time and terrain
Image by Wildfinder
The Remutaka Cycle Trail offers a diverse range of experiences — from traversing old railway tunnels to taking refreshing river swims. You’ll explore rugged coastlines, delve into historical sites and become immersed in native bush.
Beginning in Wellington Harbour, this varied trail meanders across the green Hutt Valley, gently ascends through the forested Remutaka Ranges and follows the rugged Wainuiomata coastline.
You’ll thoroughly enjoy the section from Maymorn to Cross Creek where relics of the railway that used to transport people by train still reside.
Browse the Remutaka Cycle Trail for further details.
Image by Wildfinder
Cultural sites — such as Māori pa (fortified villages) and early European settlements
Remutaka incline — a section of the track with old railway bridges and tunnels like the 500m long Summit Tunnel
Views from the Siberia Gully swing bridge — a new 90m crossing that helps connect the Wairarapa with the Hutt Valley
Lake Wairarapa — the North Island’s third largest
Wairarapa Moana Wetlands — spot native bird species such as weweia (New Zealand dabchick) and pāpango (New Zealand scaup)
Ocean Beach — where classic Kiwi baches meet Cook Strait
Dolphins, orca and seals — can occasionally be seen from the Wild Coast Trail section
Total distance: 121.7km
Grades: 2-4
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Hutt River Trail, Rail Trail, Western Lake Road, Wild Coast Trail
Resources: Remutaka Cycle Trail great ride
|
The Fell system
The Remutaka Incline Railway was originally built in the late 19th Century on a steep gradient. It featured an ingenious Fell system which used a third central rail with a gripping mechanism between the two main rails.
With the Fell system in place, trains could safely ascend and descend the challenging slopes of the Remutaka Ranges — an essential transport link between the Wairarapa and Wellington. |
Your epic motorhome adventure doesn’t just have to be about driving and walking — these magical North Island trails are worth your time. Download the New Zealand great rides app from the App Store or Google Play.
Add a bike rack to your motorhome rental so you can hire bikes or take your own.
Be sure to check each ride’s official website for sections of trail that are temporarily closed due to weather events or track improvements.
Time for you to start planning your motorhome adventure to the North Island's best bike trails?
