With border restrictions still in place due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, there’s never been a better time to get out and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand. And what better way to see the country, than on a bike?

With so many awe-inspiring trails to choose from, it was difficult to narrow it down, but here’s our top four cycle trails we recommend you try this summer.

1. Tasman’s Great Taste Trail

At the top of the South Island is the Great Taste Trail, which you can start as soon as you jump off the plane in Nelson. The track consists of a 178km loop which takes in the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, Motueka Valley, Tasman Bay and ends at pristine Kaiteriteri Beach. Boutique craft breweries, wineries and seaside dining are the major drawcards for this loop track – not forgetting the stunning scenery. It can be completed in four days or less, or you can choose to ride smaller sections of the trail.

2. Alps to Ocean

If you’re up for a long-distance ride on challenging terrain, you’ll be rewarded by the spectacular Alps 2 Ocean trail which starts at Aoraki Mt Cook Village and takes you up through the Southern Alps and down to the ocean at Oamaru. It’s not for the faint of heart – the entire trail is more than 300km in length and you should set aside five to six days to complete it. However, those who dare will be rewarded with an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, and some of the greatest natural beauty New Zealand has to offer.