From the rails to the trails
With our New Zealand rail network effortlessly transporting you to the starting points of numerous renowned Great Rides, your biking escape can begin and end in relaxing style aboard our scenic trains.
The Great Rides of New Zealand is a network of 23 world-class cycling trails showcasing Aotearoa’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture and heritage. They span from the subtropical forests of Northland to the rugged mountains of the South, offering world-class cycling experiences for all levels. These trails provide an unparalleled way to explore New Zealand’s natural beauty, rich heritage, and welcoming communities.
The combination of train travel and cycling enables you to fully explore the length and breadth of New Zealand's great outdoors.
Whether it’s a multi-day journey or a short scenic ride, the Great Rides offer a mix of leisurely scenic routes and challenging backcountry adventures for riders of all abilities.
So why not leave your car and your cares behind, and join us on a magnificent journey into our extraordinary land and see the best of New Zealand by bike and train.
Explore More New Zealand Great Rides
Our partners at Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand have designed 23 Great Rides to encapsulate the diverse blend of culture, heritage, food and wine, and nature and off-trail activities of New Zealand.
Hop on your bike and be immersed in the vibrant tapestry of the country's natural wonders. From lush forests to sparkling coastlines, the combination of train travel and cycling creates an enchanting experience that allows you to fully embrace the magnificence of this extraordinary land.
From rail to trail, arrive by world-famous train journeys to explore world-class Great Rides.
What to know before you go
Cycle journeys
Looking for an end-to-end cycle trail experience?
Our partners at Cycle Journeys are your local specialists who know the West Coast and Nelson cycle trails like the back of their hand.
Leave the details to the experts as they care for everything from the gear, and shuttling you and your belongings between tracks, to connecting you with the locals.
Getting to the Great Rides by train
You can travel on the world-famous TranzAlpine train, the Coastal Pacific and the Northern Explorer. Or to leave the details to the experts, explore our cycle packages or reach out to our Travel Centre to put together a bespoke itinerary.