How to Plan a Cycling Journey to New Zealand's Southern Lakes and Central Otago Regions

At Dinogo Plan-It, we guide you step by step through the process of organizing some of the most intricate travel adventures. Here, Craig McLachlan shares tips on maximizing your biking experience in this South Pacific paradise's southern region.

New Zealand is experiencing a cycling boom, with an abundance of off-road, unpaved, and purpose-built bike trails emerging nationwide.

Cycling enthusiasts owe their gratitude to a government initiative aimed at attracting international tourists, encouraging Kiwis to ride their bikes and explore local areas, and revitalizing struggling rural communities. Currently, there are 23 stunning “Great Rides” (Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails), with the standout locations being in the Southern Lakes around the resorts of Queenstown and Wanaka, and nearby Central Otago.

Step 1: Choose the Ideal Season

Cycling can be enjoyed year-round, so consider what timing suits you best.

As you plan your journey, remember two key points: New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere, which means its seasons are reversed compared to the northern hemisphere, and it tends to get cooler the further south you venture. The central hub of the Southern Lakes and Central Otago region is Queenstown, situated at latitude 45°S—midway between the equator and the South Pole. (This latitude corresponds to areas like southern France and northern Oregon in the northern hemisphere.)

Though Queenstown and Wanaka are known as ski resorts, snow is rarely found at lake level, even during mid-winter. This makes many of the day-trip bike trails accessible throughout the year, although locals consider the peak biking season to be from October to April. Queenstown Airport offers direct international flights from Australia; the region sees high popularity during the New Zealand and Australian summer school holidays in December and January. It’s advisable to book your accommodation and flights well in advance if traveling during these peak months.

The best months to visit are February, March, and April, when local families are back to their routines. Plus, February and March boast warm, settled weather, while April showcases breathtaking autumn hues.

Step 2: Pack Light and Rent Gear Upon Arrival

Just bring a suitcase with the right attire for cycling.

Given New Zealand's remote location, nearly all international travelers arrive by plane. There's no need to bring your own bike, as Queenstown, Wanaka, and the Central Otago towns of Cromwell and Clyde offer everything visiting cyclists might need. Rental shops provide both off-road e-bikes and standard bikes, while outdoor retailers have all the essentials for your trail adventures. Essentially, all you need to bring is suitable clothing.

Step 3: Choose the Trails That Fit You Perfectly

A wide array of routes awaits your exploration.

If you’re drawn to the idea of staying at a world-class resort while enjoying a plethora of other activities, make Queenstown your base. From here, you can embark on several relatively easy day trips along the Queenstown Trails, which encompass over 130km (80 miles) of interconnected off-road biking paths. This lively town features some of the finest restaurants, cafes, and bars in the country, along with a vibrant nightlife. Consider biking alongside the Kawarau River on the Queenstown-to-Arrowtown trail, or venture out to the Gibbston Valley wineries and then take a shuttle back to Queenstown after your tasting. Alternatively, explore the Frankton Track and Kelvin Peninsula Trails, with the option to return to town by ferry across the lake using Queenstown Ferries.

For a chance to escape to a less-trodden area, consider basing yourself in Clyde, located an hour’s drive east of Queenstown. There are fantastic one-day rides in this region, including the Lake Dunstan Trail, which links Cromwell and Clyde. This 41km (25-mile) trail features boardwalks attached to sheer rock faces, an 86m (282ft) suspension bridge, and even a floating café. It's best suited for confident and reasonably experienced riders; novices may want to warm up on other trails first. For more information, visit Trailhub for details on Central Otago’s bike trails.

The ride that sparked the New Zealand government's investment in biking trails is the Otago Central Rail Trail, a 152km (95-mile) journey from Clyde to Middlemarch. Opened as a biking and walking trail in 2000, it has completely revitalized the area. This stunning route follows the path of former railway viaducts, tunnels, and station sites. It offers an easy three- to four-day ride along a trail with a gentle gradient, originally designed for steam trains. This trail is perfect for families, and several companies, like Trail Journeys, provide packages that include bikes, accommodation, and transport.

The best advice…

Take your time in New Zealand's deep south, and do some research before you head out. The options are plentiful.

New bike trails are continually being developed, and by the end of the decade, it will be possible to cycle from Queenstown or Wanaka all the way to Dunedin on the east coast of the South Island. You might even consider taking on the Tour Aotearoa, an epic 3000km (1865-mile) bikepacking adventure that spans the entire country.