There’s a good reason so many Australian mountain bikers keep heading across the ditch. Beyond the familiar accents and short flight time, New Zealand delivers some of the best riding anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. From purpose-built flow trails winding through towering redwoods to remote backcountry singletrack that feels a world away from any form of civilisation, it’s a destination that rewards riders of all abilities.

Many of these rides form part of the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, a network of 23 trails that showcase the country’s diverse landscapes. Some are best tackled over several days, while others can be sampled in an afternoon if you’re short on time. Along the way you’ll pass through historic towns, ride alongside rivers, explore landscapes shaped by Māori history, and discover plenty of good food and local hospitality waiting at the end of the trail.

The riding itself is remarkably varied. The North Island is known for its fast, flowing dirt, geothermal landscapes, towering redwood forests, ancient native bush and trails that weave through old logging routes and volcanic terrain. Head south and the scenery changes again, with alpine passes, rugged coastlines, technical singletrack and some of the most spectacular backcountry riding you’ll find anywhere.

The good news is that exploring it all has never been easier. A well-established network of shuttle operators, bike hire businesses and tour providers makes it simple to ride everything from a quick day trip to a multi-day bikepack.

Top three North Island Great Rides for mountain bikers

Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride

Duration: 1 day (36km) | Grade: Easy/intermediate

You can’t really talk about mountain biking in New Zealand without mentioning Rotorua. It’s the spiritual home of the sport across the ditch, and while most riders head straight for the famous trail network, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride offers a different way to experience the forest.

Winding beneath towering Californian redwoods, the ride links together smooth, purpose-built singletrack with quiet forest roads, passing native bush, steaming geothermal features and glimpses across Rotorua’s volcanic landscape. It’s an easy ride to settle into, with enough flow to keep experienced riders entertained while remaining approachable for newer mountain bikers and E-bike riders.

One of the biggest advantages is how accessible it is. The main trailheads at Waipa and Te Pūtake o Tawa have everything you need before rolling out, from bike hire and mechanical support to cafés worthy of a post-ride coffee. If it’s your first time riding in Rotorua, it’s a great introduction before diving into the forest’s more technical trails.

Getting there: Fly into Auckland and drive almost three hours. Alternatively, there are regional flights to Rotorua from Auckland.  You can also fly into Hamilton which is just a 1.5 drive from Rotorua.  

Off the bike activities

• Rotorua has a variety of mineral-rich hot springs, therapeutic mud baths, and secluded forest pools. Take a well-deserved soak in the likes of Secret Spot Hot Tubs and Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. 
• There are plenty of cultural experiences being the birthplace of Māorii tourism. Check out Te Puia, home to the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and Te Pā Tū, an unforgettable journey through Māori history, culture and cuisine.
• The Redwoods Altitude/Treewalk suspended high above the forest floor, offers magical night and daytime walks.
• Known as a volcanic wonderland, there’s a range of geothermal parks to visit. Check out Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
• There’s plenty of family-friendly fun to be had. Ride a scenic gondola up Mount Ngongotahā, then race down purpose-built downhill luge tracks at Skyline Rotorua. Or roll down a hillside inside a giant, water-filled inflatable ball with ZORB Rotorua.

Timber Trail Great Ride

Duration: 2 days (85km) | Grade: Intermediate

If you’re looking for a ride that feels like a proper backcountry adventure, The Timber Trail is hard to beat. Hidden away in Pureora Forest Park on New Zealand’s North Island, it’s a two-day ride that combines flowing singletrack, gravel forest roads and old logging tramways through one of the country’s largest remaining native forests.

The scenery is every bit as memorable as the riding. Ancient podocarp forest, big rivers, native birdlife and relics from the region’s timber-milling history are all part of the experience, but it’s the bridges that really steal the show. The trail crosses eight suspension bridges, including the 141-metre Maramataha Bridge, which hangs 53 metres above a steep gorge and remains one of New Zealand’s longest suspension bridges.

While there’s nothing overly technical about the riding, the sense of remoteness is what makes the Timber Trail special. With limited road access and an overnight stop in the middle of the forest, it feels like a proper escape rather than just another day on the bike. An e-MTB is a popular way to tackle the ride, although it’s just as rewarding under your own steam.

Most riders use a shuttle service, parking at the Ongarue Bennett Road Hub before being transported to the trailhead. 

Getting there: From Auckland it’s around a three-and-a-half-hour drive, or about two hours from Taupō.

Off the bike activities

• Hike Tongariro National Park – the only UNESCO Dual World Heritage site in New Zealand
• One of a kind, rail cart tours with Forgotten World Adventures
• Fly-fish, canoe or jetboat on the Whanganui River
• Visit Huka Falls and witness more than 220,000 litres of water per second barrel through a narrow canyon, painting the pool a striking turquoise blue in the nearby town of Taupō
• Also in Taupō take a boat tour to see Māori rock carvings 14m high up on a cliffside on Lake Taupō.

Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride

Duration: 4-6 days (231km) including 32km jetboat ride | Grade: Easy-intermediate

Stretching from the slopes of Mt Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea, the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride is one of their most ambitious. Rather than following a single trail, it links together quiet back roads, historic logging routes, backcountry singletrack, rail trails and river tracks, creating a journey that changes character almost every day.

The variety is what makes it so memorable. One moment you’re riding beneath the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park, the next you’re winding through remote river gorges, rolling farmland or native forest. Along the way you’ll pass engineering landmarks like the Hapuawhenua Viaduct, remnants of New Zealand’s pioneering rail and logging history, and eventually reach the famous Bridge to Nowhere, hidden deep within Whanganui National Park.

The full route takes several days to complete, but you don’t need to commit to the entire journey to experience some of its highlights. Sections such as the Ohakune Old Coach Road, Te Hangāruru and Te Ara Mangawhero make excellent half-day or overnight rides and are suitable for a wide range of riders.

Those tackling the complete adventure are rewarded with one of New Zealand’s most unique finishes, swapping two wheels for a 32-kilometre jetboat ride down the Whanganui River from Mangapurua Landing to Pipiriki, bringing an unforgettable backcountry journey to a fitting close.

Getting there: You can fly into Auckland, Wellington or Hamilton and self-drive to the Ruapehu region. Alternatively, you can fly from Auckland to Whanganui on Air Chathams.

Off the bike activities

• Sky Waka gondola to Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu, with epics walks and spectacular dining
• Local, premium merino at Opus Fresh and a soak at Ohakune Hot Tubs
• Tastings and a tour at Ruapehu Distillery for some Straight Up Carrot Gin
• Explore Whanganui National Park and Whanganui River. Take an adrenaline-fueled jet boat to the iconic “Bridge to Nowhere” or hire a kayak for a peaceful paddle between dramatic, bush-clad gorge walls.
• Visit Whanganui – a UNESCO City of Design.

Top three South Island Great Rides for mountain biking

Coppermine Trail Great Ride

Duration: 1 day (43km) | Grade: Intermediate 

If you’re chasing a ride that packs plenty into a single day, the Coppermine Trail Great Ride just outside Nelson deserves a spot on the list. Starting just minutes from the city’s cafés and breweries, the trail quickly leaves suburbia behind, climbing through Codgers MTB Park before following the historic Dun Mountain Railway into the hills.

The climb is steady rather than brutal, winding its way towards Coppermine Saddle at 878 metres above sea level. Once above the treeline, the trail opens up to expansive views across Nelson, Tasman Bay and the surrounding ranges, with the exposed ridgeline adding a real alpine feel that’s quite different to many of New Zealand’s forested rides.

The reward comes on the way back down. Around 10 kilometres of descending mixes rocky technical sections, tight switchbacks, fast flowing corners and rock gardens before dropping into cool beech forest and eventually reaching Maitai Dam. It’s a descent that keeps you engaged the whole way without feeling overly intimidating for confident intermediate riders.

From there, the ride eases into a relaxed spin back towards Nelson along the Maitai River. Riders still chasing more vertical can link back into Codgers via the climb over Tantragee Saddle and finish with one of the park’s downhill trails. Either way, it’s hard to argue with finishing the day back in town over a good meal and a local beer while deciding where to ride next.

Getting there: To get there it’s an almost two-hour drive from the South Island town of Picton where the Interislander ferry berths. Or flying directly into Nelson is another option.

Off the bike activities

• Explore Abel Tasman National Park. With golden beaches, native bush and that crystal-clear coastline, you can hike it, cruise it, paddle it or just stretch out on the sand.
• Soak up the sights, sounds and flavours at the local markets. Held every Wednesday and Saturday in Nelson, and Sundays in Motueka, they’re a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
• Eat, sip and savour your way around. From sun-soaked vineyards to tucked-away cocktail bars, Nelson-Tasman serves up local flavour at every turn. Think alfresco dining, waterfront views, farmers markets and hidden laneway cafés.
• Cross the hill and find the magic in Golden Bay. Packed with some of the most breathtaking spots in Nelson-Tasman, and the drive over Tākaka Hill is well worth it. Wander across farmland to wild Wharariki Beach, take a guided trip along Farewell Spit or visit the crystal-clear waters of Te Waikoropupū Springs.
• If you’re after a thrill, at Cable Bay, you can tear up the tracks on a quad bike or take on the Skywire, one of the world’s longest ziplines.

the Old Ghost Road Great Ride

2-4 days (85km) | Grade: Intermediate-advanced

If there’s one ride that regularly appears on mountain bikers’ bucket lists, it’s The Old Ghost Road. Winding 85 kilometres through the rugged mountains of the South Island’s West Coast, this purpose-built trail has earned its reputation as one of the country’s great backcountry rides, blending flowing singletrack, techy descents and spectacular scenery into a ride you’ll be talking about long after it’s over.

Built along the route of an old gold miners’ trail between the ghost town of Lyell and Seddonville, the ride feels wonderfully remote from the outset. One moment you’re climbing through dense native forest, the next you’re traversing exposed ridgelines with views stretching across alpine tarns, deep river valleys and rugged peaks.

Most riders tackle the trail over two to four days, travelling south to north. The opening climb out of Lyell is a proper test, gaining more than 760 metres over 18 kilometres to Lyell Saddle Hut. Stronger riders often push on to Ghost Lake Hut, adding another 12 kilometres and 500 metres of climbing before spending the night in one of the most spectacular hut locations anywhere in New Zealand.

From there, the ride delivers everything that has made Old Ghost Road famous. Technical descents, flowing ridgeline singletrack, fast sections through native forest and long stretches where it feels like you have the mountains entirely to yourself. The final day follows the Mōkihinui River through towering podocarp forest before eventually reaching Seddonville and the coast.

The huts are a big part of the experience too. Perched on exposed ridgelines or tucked away beside rivers, they turn the ride into much more than simply covering distance. Watching the sun set over the mountains before waking to birdsong and another day of world-class singletrack is all part of what makes the Old Ghost Road one of New Zealand’s truly unforgettable mountain bike adventures.

Getting there: As well as flights on regional networks, the Interislander ferry connects the North and South Islands. Or fly to Christchurch and drive just over four hours to Westport. Alternatively, jump on the TranzAlpine train operated by Great Journeys, one of the world’s great train journeys.

Off the bike activities

• Walk across New Zealand’s longest wood-and-wire passenger swingbridge, suspended 19 metres above the Buller River on the Buller Gorge Swingbridge and loop walks.
• Experience the Buller Canyon Jet Boat down the mighty Buller River on a ride that skims past granite canyons, dramatic rock faces, and rushing rapids.
• Pan for gold at the historic gold rush town of Lyell. You can rent a gold pan nearby.
• Stay at the Rough and Tumble Bush Lodge. Ranked among the top 1% of accommodation providers worldwide on TripAdvisor, the Rough and Tumble is a remote haven at the very end of The Old Ghost Road – where weary riders arrive to recover, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in genuine West Coast hospitality.
• Visit Westport’s heritage Coaltown Museum. It’s a great rainy-day option.

St James Cycle Trail Great Ride

Duration: 1-2 days 60km | Grade: Mostly intermediate-advanced

If your idea of a good ride involves big climbs, scenery and the feeling of being a long way from anywhere, the St James Cycle Trail Great Ride delivers in spades. Starting just north of Hanmer Springs, this 60-kilometre backcountry ride cuts through the vast landscapes of St James Conservation Area, taking in alpine valleys, braided rivers and one of New Zealand’s classic high-country stations.

The trail follows old stock routes through the Clarence and Waiau valleys, where the riding becomes progressively more challenging. Expect rougher surfaces than many of the Great Rides, with rocky sections, stream crossings and a handful of short but punchy climbs over mountain saddles. It’s proper adventure riding, where the changing landscape is just as memorable as the trail itself.

There are plenty of reasons to slow down along the way. Historic backcountry huts provide ideal overnight stops, while the recently completed McArthur Bridge, suspended 17 metres above the Waiau Uwha River, has quickly become one of the trail’s standout landmarks. If you’ve still got a bit left in the legs, it’s worth making the short detour to Cow Stream Hot Springs near Scotties Hut. Soaking in a natural hot pool after a day on the bike is a pretty good way to prepare for the final climb over Peters Pass and the run into St James Homestead.

Getting there: The nearest town is the alpine village of Hanmer, about a two-hour drive away from Christchurch airport. The Interislander ferry port of Picton is four hours’ drive.

Off the bike activities:

• Unwind at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, where you can soak in the thermal waters or indulge in a spa treatment
• Stretch your legs on the popular walk up Conical Hill 
• Refuel with Hanmer Springs’ diverse dining scene, offering everything from tapas, Indian, Italian, and stone grill restaurants to cosy cafés, specialty pies, pubs and wood-fired pizzas.
• As night falls, experience the magic of the region with a guided stargazing tour from Manuka Skies, where the clear alpine skies reveal a spectacular display of stars.
• Power through the spectacular Waiau River Canyon including spins and thrills on an action-packed Hanmer Springs jet boat ride with Hanmer Springs Attractions.

These six rides are just a taste of what New Zealand has to offer. Together they form part of the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand, a network of 23 trails showcasing everything from world-class singletrack and alpine backcountry to historic rail trails and coastal adventures. Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a fortnight to spare, there’s no shortage of reasons to point the bike towards New Zealand. 

Start planning your Great Rides adventure here.