New Zealand
Best season: Dec–Mar·31 routes
Overview
New Zealand's Tour Aotearoa is the southern hemisphere's defining bikepacking route. From Cape Reinga in the north to Bluff in the south, it crosses every terrain type the country offers — volcanic plateau, alpine passes, coastal gravel, and river valleys. The DOC hut system means you rarely need a tent.
“The Southern Alps from coast to coast. A world-class hut-to-hut infrastructure. Scenery so dramatic it barely seems real.”
Top Routes
Tour Aotearoa
Full length of New Zealand from north to south, combining trails, gravel roads, and quiet tarmac through every landscape.
Alps 2 Ocean
Dedicated trail from Aoraki/Mt Cook to Oamaru, descending from the Southern Alps to the Pacific coast.
Otago Rail Trail
Converted railway through Central Otago's gold rush landscape — wineries, historic bridges, and dramatic schist rock formations.
Rider Tips
- Book DOC huts in advance for the South Island — they fill up fast in summer.
- Sand flies are vicious in Fiordland. Carry strong repellent and a head net.
- Weather changes fast in the Southern Alps — always carry full waterproofs even in summer.
- The Timber Trail requires a bike with 2.2"+ tyres — narrow tyres will struggle on the roots.
Essential Gear
Destination Scores
Quick Facts
- Continent
- Oceania
- Best Season
- Dec–Mar
- Total Routes
- 31
- Top Route
- Tour Aotearoa (3,000 km)