About this itinerary
Life is like riding a bicycle — to keep your balance you must keep moving
Motorhome travel offers the incomparable freedom to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Perhaps you prefer parking up by lakes for solitude or journeying into the mountains for adventure. But if you long for the simple joy of exploring each destination on two wheels, this itinerary is a must-read.
Our bike trails road trip will help you plan a cycle holiday that features the most amazing riding trails in the South Island. Between Golden Bay and Southland, you’ll find tracks that were built just for biking — and landscapes that vary from breathtaking to awe-inspiring.
Image by Roady
Highlights
-
Great Taste Trail
-
West Coast Wilderness Trail
-
Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
-
Lake Dunstan Trail
-
Otago Central Rail Trail
-
Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
-
Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
|
All New Zealand bike trails are graded on a scale of one to five and are specified as:
|
Ride 1 - Great Taste Trail
Wheels and wine
Image by George Guille Media
Showcasing the best of the Nelson Tasman region, the popular Great Taste Trail follows a loop between Nelson, Kaiteriteri and Tapawera. Soak up the sea breezes, the aroma of orchard hops and the flavour of local delicacies as you take your time in this relaxing, sun-drenched part of New Zealand.
Named the great taste trail for a reason, you can expect to sample a wide variety of diverse experiences. There are four theme focused sections featuring estuaries, birdlife, wineries, craft breweries, cafés, art, culture, mountains and even a famously-long tunnel.
Spring through autumn is the best time to ride parts of this trail — though in summer the region can get very hot. If you’re bike fit, you may be able to start and finish at the same spot. However, there’s 200km of track length so you’ll need strong legs to complete it in a day or two.
Find out more about Tasman’s Great Taste Trail.
Image by Virginia Woolf Photography
Things to see on the Great Taste Trail
- Māpua Wharf — stop for a taste of the incredibly fresh foods being served up
- Kaiteriteri Beach — swim in the estuary if you’re here outside of the very busy summer season
- Sample a local drop — at one of the many wineries or craft beer establishments near the trail
- Hop farms — not a common plant grown on arable farm land, the Motueka Valley has a phenomenal number of them
- Experience Spooners Tunnel — cycle through New Zealand’s longest decommissioned railway tunnel
- Fresh fruit — pick up some fresh produce from one of the honesty-box fruit stands along the trail
Total trail distance: 177km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Town to Country, Sparkling Coastline, Rural Tasman, Back and Beyond
Resources: Great Taste Trail brochure, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail
|
Spooners Tunnel
Spooners Tunnel is the southern hemisphere’s longest disused rail tunnel — now repurposed for walking and biking. Originally built for a railway line in the late 19th century, riding through the 1.35km tunnel is a surreal experience. |
Ride 2 - West Coast Wilderness Trail
Uncover the real West Coast
.jpg?width=998&height=623&name=Biking%20along%20the%20Arahura%20River%2c%20West%20Coast%20Wilderness%20Trail%20(credit%20Chris%20Steele).jpg)
Image by Chris Steele
If you want to truly explore some of the West Coast while passing through in your campervan hire, jump on two wheels and ride a section of the Wilderness Trail.
This trail offers high-density rainforest, glacial rivers and lakes, the Tasman Sea, wild wetlands and snow-capped mountains as backdrops. And you’ll have time to take it all in — as the track is one of New Zealand’s best cycle trail surfaces.
The variety of the ride is a highlight with swing bridges, switchbacks and river crossings a few of the more interesting features along the way. The variety of genuinely friendly West Coasters is also a highlight. You’ll arrive as a visitor but leave as a local.
Discover all you need to know about the West Coast Wilderness Trail.
.jpg?width=968&height=645&name=West%20Coast%20Wilderness%20Trail%2c%20West%20Coast%208%20(credit%20RoadyNZ).jpg)
Image by RoadyNZ
Things to see on the West Coast Wilderness Trail
- Grab a refreshment in Greymouth or Hokitika — at DP1 Café, Bespoke Café or The Hokitika Sandwich Company
- Shop for greenstone (pounamu) — in the home of jade country
- Try the shooting range — at isolated Cowboy Paradise
- Check out a hidden relic — visiting the Historic Kumara Swimming Baths
- Walk to Londonderry Wall Rock — a remnant of the Kumara gold rush days
- Jump off the jetty and enjoy a swim — at serene Lake Kaniere
- Gain some altitude — at the West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also check out our North Island bike trails road trip itinerary.
Total trail distance: 133km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Greymouth to Kumara, Kumara to Milton, Milton to Hokitika, Hokitika to Ross
Resources: West Coast Wilderness Trail overview and map, day rides
|
A piece of the Wild West The remote village of Cowboy Paradise is certainly a unique place. Set inland and surrounded by stunning views and native forest, it’s where you can bring out your inner cowboy or cowgirl.
The host is quite a West Coast character and you’ll be treated to an experience that’s certainly a little different. |
Ride 3 - Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
From Mount Cook to the Pacific Ocean
Image by Rachel Gillespie
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is an extraordinary journey — one which spans over 300km and holds the title of New Zealand's longest great ride.
Despite its length, it's designed to accommodate shorter adventures, with nine distinct sections varying from 27 to 55km in length. If you only want to bike a part of one section of the A2O trail, it’s easy to plan.
An aspiration to cycle from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, taking in the majestic landscapes of the South Island, is where the concept originated. And what better location to begin than under the imposing shadow of New Zealand’s highest peak — Aoraki Mount Cook.
Many of the trail's more manageable sections lie between Mount Cook and Lake Ōhau. You’ll have the choice to cycle alongside turquoise Lake Pukaki, observe the engineering marvel of the Tekapō Canal or enjoy the tranquil shores of Lake Ōhau.
Learn more about the Alps 2 Ocean Trail.
Image by Rachel Gillespie
Things to see on the Alps 2 Ocean Trail
- Add a scenic helicopter flight to the start of your A2O adventure
- Catch a feed and refuel — at High Country Salmon near Twizel
- Enjoy a late lunch at The Wrinkly Rams Cafe — in the heart of Ōmarama
- Go back in time at the Kurow Museum — or call in for a refreshment at one of the two bright pubs along the town’s main street
- Call into River T Wines — a sustainable local winery in Kurow
- Visit the blue penguin colony — near the waterfront in Ōamaru
View our top ten New Zealand rest stops for taking a break driving between rides.
Total trail distance: 316km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways — but like trail name suggests, most riders begin in the alps
Main trails: Aoraki-Mt Cook to Braemar Road, Braemar Road to Twizel, Twizel to Lake Ōhau Lodge, Lake Ōhau Lodge to Ōmarama, Ōmarama to Otematata, Otematata to Kurow, Kurow to Duntroon, Duntroon to Ōamaru
Alternate trails: Lake Tekapō-Takapō to Twizel
Resources: Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail map
|
To cycle or to fly? Ever felt like you needed a lift when out on a biking trail? On the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail you can have a lift — in a chopper.
The official start of the trail, at White Horse Hill Campground in Mount Cook Village, includes an inaccessible section in the form of the Tasman River. If you decide to cycle this section, you’ll need to transfer your bike by helicopter over the river.
An aerial view of this iconic natural landscape will be a moment to remember. |
Ride 4 - Lake Dunstan Trail
Where adventure meets serenity
Image by Tourism Central Otago and Ross McKay
Bike one of New Zealand’s most spectacular day rides which features hairpin bends, steep climbs and even burgers on the lake!
Beginning near Cromwell and cycling through the Cromwell Historic Precinct, the trail follows the Kawarau River to Bannockburn before turning back towards the Cairnmuir Mountains. You’ll then get a thrill out of riding lakeside where a wrong turn can lead to a wet crash.
Pull over for lunch near the halfway point where there are floating burger and coffee boats. Relax under some shady rocks before completing the rest of the trail and its switchbacks, blind corners, bridges and climbs.
Find out all the details you’ll need to ride the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Image by Geoff Marks
Things to see on the Lake Dunstan Trail
- Relax and browse the vintage stores — at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct
- Visit a Bannockburn winery — like Bannockburn Vineyards, Mt Difficulty or Carrick
- Enjoy a burger mid-ride at Burger Afloat — literally a floating burger bar on the lake
- Wash your burger down with a coffee — right next door (or rather, next boat) from Coffee Afloat
- Check out the Clyde Dam — the third-largest dam in New Zealand
- Swim in the lake — at the Dunstan Arm Rowing Club near Clyde
- Finish your cycle with a refreshment — at Clyde Historic Precinct
Total trail distance: 55km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Smiths Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct, Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn Inlet, Bannockburn Inlet to Cairnmuir Gully, Cairnmuir Gully to Halfway Hut, Halfway Hut to Dunstan Arm Rowing Club, Dunstan Arm Rowing Club to Clyde Heritage Precinct
Resources: Lake Dunstan Trail map
|
Ride the floating trail Hugging the cliff edge of Lake Dunstan and appearing to almost float on the water is a section of track known as the floating trail.
An engineering triumph, this creative design means you can cycle over the surface of the lake. Bound to be a magic memory of your time here, it’s an immersive way of connecting cyclists with the natural beauty of Central Otago. |
Ride 5 - Otago Central Rail Trail
Cycle through the heartbeat of Otago’s rail heritage
Image by James Jubb
The Otago Central Rail Trail is more than just a bike ride — it’s a journey through an important part of New Zealand’s heritage. A former railway line, it had a rich 85 year history before opening as a bike trail in 2000.
Running in an arc through the valleys between Middlemarch and Clyde, the Otago Central Rail Trail is the country’s original great ride. You can traverse it in either direction, or just ride or walk a part of it — ideal if you’re a recreational cyclist or walker.
The region's striking landscapes, historic railway tunnels, viaducts and rich gold mining heritage help create an immersive experience. Add in the quirky old stores and buildings that make you feel like you’re wandering through a living museum and you’ll be glad you chose to spend time here.
A grade one trail, it generally has smooth and wide paths with gentle gradients — suitable if you’re a beginner or riding with kids.
Get all the info on the Otago Central Rail Trail.
Image by James Jubb
Things to see on the Otago Central Rail Trail
- Stop by Gilchrists Store — the oldest trading store in New Zealand that feels a little like a museum
- Check out the Lower Manorburn Dam — one of the most popular natural ice skating locations
- Take in barren Poolburn Gorge — along with the empty and dry surrounding landscape
- Experience the Poolburn Gorge Tunnel — so long that it’s completely dark in the middle
- Dine at Pitches Store — to enjoy one of the best meals on the trail
- Visit Ophir Post Office — the longest running post office in the country
- Detour to the Golden Progress Mine — the remnants of this quartz mine are viewable to the public outside lambing season
- See Buster Diggings — a strange sculptural landform created by alluvial gold mining
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also read our ten best day rides in New Zealand.
Total trail distance: 152km
Grades: 1
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Clyde Railhead to Alexandra, Alexandra to Chatto Creek, Chatto Creek to Omakau, Omakau to Lauder, Lauder to Auripo, Auripo to Oturehua, Oturehua to Wedderburn, Wedderburn to Ranfurly, Ranfurly to Kokonga, Kokonga to Hyde, Hyde to Rock and Pillar, Rock and Pillar to Middlemarch
Resources: Otago Central Rail Trail map, half day trips, one day trips
|
The Poolburn Gorge Arguably the most popular section on the rail trail is the Poolburn Gorge. It features two spectacular tunnels, one measuring 201m long, carved straight through solid rock. The highest viaduct on the ride is also here — where you should keep your eyes peeled for Karearea, New Zealand’s native falcon. |
Ride 6 - Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
Discover the soul of the south
Image by Great South
One of the newest bike trails in New Zealand loops around some stunning, yet often skipped mountains and lakes — to the southern end of Lake Wakatipu.
It was developed to give riders an engaging experience of the natural landscapes of Southland with a focus on environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivity.
Catering for families seeking a leisurely ride through to experienced cyclists needing a challenge, the trail helps preserve important historical routes used by early Māori and European settlers. You’ll also see pioneering farming heritage on your ride — a strong part of the region’s rich history.
Logistically tricky to complete in full if you’re holidaying in a motorhome hire, choosing one of the suggested day rides is probably your best option.
Check out the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail for more information.
.jpg?width=1216&height=684&name=Around%20the%20Mountains%20Cycle%20Trail%20-%20Walter%20Peak%20-%20Southland%2c%20New%20Zealand%20-%20Credit%20Great%20South%20(9).jpg)
Image by Great South
Things to see on the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail
- Enjoy a barbecue lunch or dinner and a farm tour — lakeside at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw — from Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu to the start of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
- Swim in the beautiful Mavora Lakes — where you’ll see few people due to the relative obscurity of these waters
- Taste the incredible honey — at Garston Honey Shop.
- Ride the Kingston Flyer — a historical vintage steam train at the southern end of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
In between bike rides, be sure to explore New Zealand's best hikes on your campervan holiday.
Total trail distance: 186km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Walter Peak to Mavora Lakes, Mavora Lakes to Centre Hill Shelter, Centre Hill Shelter to Mossburn, Mossburn to Lumsden, Lumsden to Athol, Athol to Kingston
Resources: Around the Mountains Cycle Trail map, trail sections
|
Is there more to the Mavora Lakes? The picturesque Mavora Lakes were used as filming locations in Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Some fans of JRR Tolkien have turned their cycle adventures into pilgrimages of sorts — enjoying the thrill of biking through landscapes that were transformed into the writer’s fantasy world.
Get your Lord of the Rings South Island campervan rental itinerary before planning your road trip. |
Ride 7 Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
A journey through past and present
Image by Will Nelson
Central Otago is a real gold mine for mountain biking trails. Another relatively new route, the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail, opened in 2013 and connects these trails to the east coast.
This ride transitions from the tough Otago gold mining landscape to forested woodlands and expansive fields and wetlands. It’s a relaxed and engaging cycle with evolving landscapes and a vibrant history — from hunting moa to panning for gold to developing hydropower.
Partly following the Clutha River, you’ll love this trail If you appreciate biking through old train tunnels and across heritage bridges.
Browse the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail for further details.
Image by Geoff Marks
Things to see on the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
- Cross old railway bridges — taking in the history and the views
- Enjoy riding the boardwalks — near Lake Waihola and over protected wetlands
- Get excited about biking through three long tunnels — two of which are over 400m long
- Refuel at Forum Cafe in Milton — a friendly local eatery with excellent food
- Check out the 64m high Roxburgh Dam — the second major dam and power station in the South Island
Total trail distance: 135km
Grades: 1-2
Riding direction: Both ways — but riding south to north lets you continue your ride on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail
Main trails: Lawrence to Beaumont, Beaumont to Millers Flat, Millers Flat to Roxburgh, Roxburgh to Commissioner's Flat
Resources: Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
|
Mix ‘n’ match
The Clutha Gold Cycle Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail can be ridden one after the other — as they link up together at Lake Roxburgh Village.
After completing the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, you can even connect to the Otago Central Rail Trail at Alexandra or continue riding lakeside to Clyde and the Lake Dunstan Trail. |
Your motorhome vacation can be more than just cruising and relaxing — because biking these rewarding South Island trails is worth the effort.
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 bring your own.
Be sure to check each ride’s official website for track improvements or sections of trail that are temporarily closed due to weather events.
Time for you to start planning your motorhome adventure to the South Island's best bike trails?
-
About this itinerary
Life is like riding a bicycle — to keep your balance you must keep moving
Motorhome travel offers the incomparable freedom to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Perhaps you prefer parking up by lakes for solitude or journeying into the mountains for adventure. But if you long for the simple joy of exploring each destination on two wheels, this itinerary is a must-read.
Our bike trails road trip will help you plan a cycle holiday that features the most amazing riding trails in the South Island. Between Golden Bay and Southland, you’ll find tracks that were built just for biking — and landscapes that vary from breathtaking to awe-inspiring.
Image by Roady
Highlights
-
Great Taste Trail
-
West Coast Wilderness Trail
-
Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
-
Lake Dunstan Trail
-
Otago Central Rail Trail
-
Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
-
Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
All New Zealand bike trails are graded on a scale of one to five and are specified as:
- Easiest
- Easy
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Expert
-
-
Ride 1 - Great Taste Trail
Wheels and wine
Image by George Guille Media
Showcasing the best of the Nelson Tasman region, the popular Great Taste Trail follows a loop between Nelson, Kaiteriteri and Tapawera. Soak up the sea breezes, the aroma of orchard hops and the flavour of local delicacies as you take your time in this relaxing, sun-drenched part of New Zealand.
Named the great taste trail for a reason, you can expect to sample a wide variety of diverse experiences. There are four theme focused sections featuring estuaries, birdlife, wineries, craft breweries, cafés, art, culture, mountains and even a famously-long tunnel.
Spring through autumn is the best time to ride parts of this trail — though in summer the region can get very hot. If you’re bike fit, you may be able to start and finish at the same spot. However, there’s 200km of track length so you’ll need strong legs to complete it in a day or two.
Find out more about Tasman’s Great Taste Trail.
Image by Virginia Woolf Photography
Things to see on the Great Taste Trail
- Māpua Wharf — stop for a taste of the incredibly fresh foods being served up
- Kaiteriteri Beach — swim in the estuary if you’re here outside of the very busy summer season
- Sample a local drop — at one of the many wineries or craft beer establishments near the trail
- Hop farms — not a common plant grown on arable farm land, the Motueka Valley has a phenomenal number of them
- Experience Spooners Tunnel — cycle through New Zealand’s longest decommissioned railway tunnel
- Fresh fruit — pick up some fresh produce from one of the honesty-box fruit stands along the trail
Total trail distance: 177km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Town to Country, Sparkling Coastline, Rural Tasman, Back and Beyond
Resources: Great Taste Trail brochure, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail
Spooners Tunnel
Spooners Tunnel is the southern hemisphere’s longest disused rail tunnel — now repurposed for walking and biking. Originally built for a railway line in the late 19th century, riding through the 1.35km tunnel is a surreal experience.
-
Ride 2 - West Coast Wilderness Trail
Uncover the real West Coast
Image by Chris Steele
If you want to truly explore some of the West Coast while passing through in your campervan hire, jump on two wheels and ride a section of the Wilderness Trail.
This trail offers high-density rainforest, glacial rivers and lakes, the Tasman Sea, wild wetlands and snow-capped mountains as backdrops. And you’ll have time to take it all in — as the track is one of New Zealand’s best cycle trail surfaces.
The variety of the ride is a highlight with swing bridges, switchbacks and river crossings a few of the more interesting features along the way. The variety of genuinely friendly West Coasters is also a highlight. You’ll arrive as a visitor but leave as a local.
Discover all you need to know about the West Coast Wilderness Trail.
Image by RoadyNZThings to see on the West Coast Wilderness Trail
- Grab a refreshment in Greymouth or Hokitika — at DP1 Café, Bespoke Café or The Hokitika Sandwich Company
- Shop for greenstone (pounamu) — in the home of jade country
- Try the shooting range — at isolated Cowboy Paradise
- Check out a hidden relic — visiting the Historic Kumara Swimming Baths
- Walk to Londonderry Wall Rock — a remnant of the Kumara gold rush days
- Jump off the jetty and enjoy a swim — at serene Lake Kaniere
- Gain some altitude — at the West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also check out our North Island bike trails road trip itinerary.
Total trail distance: 133km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Greymouth to Kumara, Kumara to Milton, Milton to Hokitika, Hokitika to Ross
Resources: West Coast Wilderness Trail overview and map, day rides
A piece of the Wild West
The remote village of Cowboy Paradise is certainly a unique place. Set inland and surrounded by stunning views and native forest, it’s where you can bring out your inner cowboy or cowgirl.
The host is quite a West Coast character and you’ll be treated to an experience that’s certainly a little different.
-
Ride 3 - Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
From Mount Cook to the Pacific Ocean
Image by Rachel Gillespie
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is an extraordinary journey — one which spans over 300km and holds the title of New Zealand's longest great ride.
Despite its length, it's designed to accommodate shorter adventures, with nine distinct sections varying from 27 to 55km in length. If you only want to bike a part of one section of the A2O trail, it’s easy to plan.
An aspiration to cycle from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, taking in the majestic landscapes of the South Island, is where the concept originated. And what better location to begin than under the imposing shadow of New Zealand’s highest peak — Aoraki Mount Cook.
Many of the trail's more manageable sections lie between Mount Cook and Lake Ōhau. You’ll have the choice to cycle alongside turquoise Lake Pukaki, observe the engineering marvel of the Tekapō Canal or enjoy the tranquil shores of Lake Ōhau.
Learn more about the Alps 2 Ocean Trail.
Image by Rachel Gillespie
Things to see on the Alps 2 Ocean Trail- Add a scenic helicopter flight to the start of your A2O adventure
- Catch a feed and refuel — at High Country Salmon near Twizel
- Enjoy a late lunch at The Wrinkly Rams Cafe — in the heart of Ōmarama
- Go back in time at the Kurow Museum — or call in for a refreshment at one of the two bright pubs along the town’s main street
- Call into River T Wines — a sustainable local winery in Kurow
- Visit the blue penguin colony — near the waterfront in Ōamaru
View our top ten New Zealand rest stops for taking a break driving between rides.
Total trail distance: 316km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways — but like trail name suggests, most riders begin in the alps
Main trails: Aoraki-Mt Cook to Braemar Road, Braemar Road to Twizel, Twizel to Lake Ōhau Lodge, Lake Ōhau Lodge to Ōmarama, Ōmarama to Otematata, Otematata to Kurow, Kurow to Duntroon, Duntroon to Ōamaru
Alternate trails: Lake Tekapō-Takapō to Twizel
Resources: Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail map
To cycle or to fly?
Ever felt like you needed a lift when out on a biking trail? On the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail you can have a lift — in a chopper.
The official start of the trail, at White Horse Hill Campground in Mount Cook Village, includes an inaccessible section in the form of the Tasman River. If you decide to cycle this section, you’ll need to transfer your bike by helicopter over the river.
An aerial view of this iconic natural landscape will be a moment to remember.
-
Ride 4 - Lake Dunstan Trail
Where adventure meets serenity
Image by Tourism Central Otago and Ross McKay
Bike one of New Zealand’s most spectacular day rides which features hairpin bends, steep climbs and even burgers on the lake!
Beginning near Cromwell and cycling through the Cromwell Historic Precinct, the trail follows the Kawarau River to Bannockburn before turning back towards the Cairnmuir Mountains. You’ll then get a thrill out of riding lakeside where a wrong turn can lead to a wet crash.
Pull over for lunch near the halfway point where there are floating burger and coffee boats. Relax under some shady rocks before completing the rest of the trail and its switchbacks, blind corners, bridges and climbs.
Find out all the details you’ll need to ride the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Image by Geoff Marks
Things to see on the Lake Dunstan Trail- Relax and browse the vintage stores — at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct
- Visit a Bannockburn winery — like Bannockburn Vineyards, Mt Difficulty or Carrick
- Enjoy a burger mid-ride at Burger Afloat — literally a floating burger bar on the lake
- Wash your burger down with a coffee — right next door (or rather, next boat) from Coffee Afloat
- Check out the Clyde Dam — the third-largest dam in New Zealand
- Swim in the lake — at the Dunstan Arm Rowing Club near Clyde
- Finish your cycle with a refreshment — at Clyde Historic Precinct
Total trail distance: 55km
Grades: 1-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Smiths Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct, Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn Inlet, Bannockburn Inlet to Cairnmuir Gully, Cairnmuir Gully to Halfway Hut, Halfway Hut to Dunstan Arm Rowing Club, Dunstan Arm Rowing Club to Clyde Heritage Precinct
Resources: Lake Dunstan Trail map
Ride the floating trail
Hugging the cliff edge of Lake Dunstan and appearing to almost float on the water is a section of track known as the floating trail.
An engineering triumph, this creative design means you can cycle over the surface of the lake. Bound to be a magic memory of your time here, it’s an immersive way of connecting cyclists with the natural beauty of Central Otago.
-
Ride 5 - Otago Central Rail Trail
Cycle through the heartbeat of Otago’s rail heritage
Image by James Jubb
The Otago Central Rail Trail is more than just a bike ride — it’s a journey through an important part of New Zealand’s heritage. A former railway line, it had a rich 85 year history before opening as a bike trail in 2000.
Running in an arc through the valleys between Middlemarch and Clyde, the Otago Central Rail Trail is the country’s original great ride. You can traverse it in either direction, or just ride or walk a part of it — ideal if you’re a recreational cyclist or walker.
The region's striking landscapes, historic railway tunnels, viaducts and rich gold mining heritage help create an immersive experience. Add in the quirky old stores and buildings that make you feel like you’re wandering through a living museum and you’ll be glad you chose to spend time here.
A grade one trail, it generally has smooth and wide paths with gentle gradients — suitable if you’re a beginner or riding with kids.
Get all the info on the Otago Central Rail Trail.
Image by James JubbThings to see on the Otago Central Rail Trail
- Stop by Gilchrists Store — the oldest trading store in New Zealand that feels a little like a museum
- Check out the Lower Manorburn Dam — one of the most popular natural ice skating locations
- Take in barren Poolburn Gorge — along with the empty and dry surrounding landscape
- Experience the Poolburn Gorge Tunnel — so long that it’s completely dark in the middle
- Dine at Pitches Store — to enjoy one of the best meals on the trail
- Visit Ophir Post Office — the longest running post office in the country
- Detour to the Golden Progress Mine — the remnants of this quartz mine are viewable to the public outside lambing season
- See Buster Diggings — a strange sculptural landform created by alluvial gold mining
While you're planning your motorhome road trip, also read our ten best day rides in New Zealand.
Total trail distance: 152km
Grades: 1
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Clyde Railhead to Alexandra, Alexandra to Chatto Creek, Chatto Creek to Omakau, Omakau to Lauder, Lauder to Auripo, Auripo to Oturehua, Oturehua to Wedderburn, Wedderburn to Ranfurly, Ranfurly to Kokonga, Kokonga to Hyde, Hyde to Rock and Pillar, Rock and Pillar to Middlemarch
Resources: Otago Central Rail Trail map, half day trips, one day trips
The Poolburn Gorge
Arguably the most popular section on the rail trail is the Poolburn Gorge. It features two spectacular tunnels, one measuring 201m long, carved straight through solid rock. The highest viaduct on the ride is also here — where you should keep your eyes peeled for Karearea, New Zealand’s native falcon.
-
Ride 6 - Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
Discover the soul of the south
Image by Great South
One of the newest bike trails in New Zealand loops around some stunning, yet often skipped mountains and lakes — to the southern end of Lake Wakatipu.
It was developed to give riders an engaging experience of the natural landscapes of Southland with a focus on environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivity.
Catering for families seeking a leisurely ride through to experienced cyclists needing a challenge, the trail helps preserve important historical routes used by early Māori and European settlers. You’ll also see pioneering farming heritage on your ride — a strong part of the region’s rich history.
Logistically tricky to complete in full if you’re holidaying in a motorhome hire, choosing one of the suggested day rides is probably your best option.
Check out the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail for more information.
Image by Great South
Things to see on the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail
- Enjoy a barbecue lunch or dinner and a farm tour — lakeside at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw — from Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu to the start of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
- Swim in the beautiful Mavora Lakes — where you’ll see few people due to the relative obscurity of these waters
- Taste the incredible honey — at Garston Honey Shop.
- Ride the Kingston Flyer — a historical vintage steam train at the southern end of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
In between bike rides, be sure to explore New Zealand's best hikes on your campervan holiday.
Total trail distance: 186km
Grades: 2-3
Riding direction: Both ways
Main trails: Walter Peak to Mavora Lakes, Mavora Lakes to Centre Hill Shelter, Centre Hill Shelter to Mossburn, Mossburn to Lumsden, Lumsden to Athol, Athol to Kingston
Resources: Around the Mountains Cycle Trail map, trail sections
Is there more to the Mavora Lakes?
The picturesque Mavora Lakes were used as filming locations in Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Some fans of JRR Tolkien have turned their cycle adventures into pilgrimages of sorts — enjoying the thrill of biking through landscapes that were transformed into the writer’s fantasy world.
Get your Lord of the Rings South Island campervan rental itinerary before planning your road trip.
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Ride 7 Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
A journey through past and present
Image by Will Nelson
Central Otago is a real gold mine for mountain biking trails. Another relatively new route, the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail, opened in 2013 and connects these trails to the east coast.
This ride transitions from the tough Otago gold mining landscape to forested woodlands and expansive fields and wetlands. It’s a relaxed and engaging cycle with evolving landscapes and a vibrant history — from hunting moa to panning for gold to developing hydropower.
Partly following the Clutha River, you’ll love this trail If you appreciate biking through old train tunnels and across heritage bridges.
Browse the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail for further details.
Image by Geoff Marks
Things to see on the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail- Cross old railway bridges — taking in the history and the views
- Enjoy riding the boardwalks — near Lake Waihola and over protected wetlands
- Get excited about biking through three long tunnels — two of which are over 400m long
- Refuel at Forum Cafe in Milton — a friendly local eatery with excellent food
- Check out the 64m high Roxburgh Dam — the second major dam and power station in the South Island
Total trail distance: 135km
Grades: 1-2
Riding direction: Both ways — but riding south to north lets you continue your ride on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail
Main trails: Lawrence to Beaumont, Beaumont to Millers Flat, Millers Flat to Roxburgh, Roxburgh to Commissioner's Flat
Resources: Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
Mix ‘n’ match
The Clutha Gold Cycle Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail can be ridden one after the other — as they link up together at Lake Roxburgh Village.
After completing the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, you can even connect to the Otago Central Rail Trail at Alexandra or continue riding lakeside to Clyde and the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Your motorhome vacation can be more than just cruising and relaxing — because biking these rewarding South Island trails is worth the effort.
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 bring your own.
Be sure to check each ride’s official website for track improvements or sections of trail that are temporarily closed due to weather events.
Time for you to start planning your motorhome adventure to the South Island's best bike trails?
