New Zealand Best Cycle Trails
By Anna Hayes 2017-06-30
New Zealand is a beautiful country, with amazing scenery and a vibrant history. A very popular way of exploring our beautiful countryside is by cycle trail, and New Zealand has a variety of world-class cycle trails free for you to explore. There are heaps of great cycle trails all around the country, and here are some of the top cycle trails.
Otago Central Rail Trail
Voted New Zealand's favourite place to cycle in 2016, the Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand's Original Great Ride and follows the old Central Otago branch railway line from Clyde to Middlemarch.
Open all year around, entirely off road, and open to non-motorised vehicles only, the trail winds through spectacular scenery with towering mountain ranges, rolling hills and jagged gorges. Cyclists cross the Maniototo plain, pass through old gold mining towns before ending their cycle trail in the fruit growing areas of Central Otago. Historic viaducts, bridges and some of the old Railway Stations have also been preserved, showcasing New Zealand's history along the way.
The trail provides 2,500 kilometres of rail trail and takes approximately 4 days to cycle. Those looking for Otago Central Rail Trail Accommodation can find it all the way along the trail in the towns of Clyde, Alexandra, Chatto Creek, Omakau, Lauder, Oturehua, Wedderburn, Ranfurly, Waipiata, Hyde, Middlemarch and Dunedin.
The Timber Trail
Offering something a little different, The Timber Trail delves deep into Pureora Forest Park in the heart of the North Island. This epic cycle trail featurs ancient forestry, vast birdlife, intriguing timber industry relics, and graceful suspension bridges providing stunning views all around. The trail follows the path of old logging roads and tramlines between the tiny settlements of Pureora, Ongarue and Piropiro.
Hawke's Bay Trails
With over 200 kilometres of cycle paths, the Hawke's Bay Trails meander around and between the twin cities of Napier and Hastings. Here cyclists can choose between 3 distinct cycle experiences, The Landscapes Ride, The Water Ride and The Wineries Ride.
Great Taste Trail
Located in the Tasman Region of New Zealand, the Great Taste Trail is a network of approximately 174 kilometres that winds leisurely through Nelson, Wakefield, Richmond, Motueka and Kaiteriteri. Cyclists can stop along the way and explore galleries, take a winery tour and taste the delicious locally produced wines, or relax and enjoy a scrumptious meal at a restaurant.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Anna Hayes — a marketing strategist and website designer at Innovate Digital. I help New Zealand businesses and wellness brands grow with clarity, creativity, and purpose through thoughtful design and authentic digital marketing.
Alongside my work at Innovate Digital, I’m also passionate about natural health and wellbeing. My personal health journey began when I discovered the power of natural products through doTERRA and Nu Skin. What started as a way to support my family’s wellbeing has become a mission to help others live healthier, more balanced lives — while empowering them to build sustainable businesses of their own.
I love that both brands focus on quality, ethical sourcing, and community — values that mirror the way I approach my digital marketing work: with care, transparency, and long-term vision.
If you’d like to connect about digital strategy, brand design, or natural wellness opportunities, I’d love to hear from you.
Anna Hayes
