Top 4 New Zealand Cycle Trails to Ride this Summer

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.

The West Coast Rail Trail. Image: Fraser Clements.
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.

Alps to Ocean Trail. Image: Camilla Rutherford.
3. The Redwoods Rotorua
The Redwoods in Rotorua is not only for those looking for a long trail ride, but also those who like a bit of adrenaline, with its web of downhill mountain biking trails. The network features over 130kms of trails and caters to all levels of riders. The majestic setting in a forest of ancient Redwoods is truly something to behold, and the back section takes in the Green Lake, where you can stop for a dip.

The Redwoods, Rotorua. Image: Graeme Murray.
4. West Coast Wilderness Trail
The west coast wilderness trail takes you through virgin rainforest, snow-capped mountains and alongside pristine rivers. You’ll ride through historic gold-mining sites and stop off at both Greymouth and Hokitika. The four-day ride covers some of the most rugged terrain in New Zealand, but the reward is the untouched beauty of the landscape.

The West Coast Rail Trail. Image: Fraser Clements.
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