5 epic ways to explore Northland by bike
With a mild climate, rich history and culture, and plenty of stunning scenery, Northland is the perfect place to explore by bike – taking well-formed cycle ways, tranquil country roads, or tackling some of the exciting mountain biking trails around the region.
Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail
Crossing suspension bridges, traversing along disused rail corridors and through native bush this cycle trail takes you on a fascinating journey through some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most historically and culturally important sites. Twin Coast Adventures and Top Trail are your trusted trail partners for Northland’s Great Ride. They provide bike hire, shuttles, and expert advice to help you craft a bespoke itinerary that suits your pace and interests. Whether you’re after a relaxed day trip or a multi-day challenge, they’ll make sure your ride is smooth from start to finish.
Northland Experiences
This is the lux way to travel Northland by bike – with small group tours and full vehicle support and including visits to some of Northland’s most iconic sites. Northland Experiences offers a two signature tours, one taking the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail between east and west coasts, and the other venturing as far north as you can go from Kerikeri to Cape Reinga and back. You’ll meet locals, share kai (food) and build friendships with your cycling companions that last long after the ride ends.
Bikepacking through Northland
Bikepacking is booming across Northland’s trail towns. The most iconic bikepacking route is the Tour Aotearoa, a 3,000 km journey from Cape Reinga to Bluff. The Northland section spans 400 km and includes three Heartland Rides: the Far North Cycleway, Kauri Coast Cycleway, and Kaipara Missing Link. Day one kicks off with a dramatic ride along Ninety Mile Beach, an epic way to start your adventure.
Mountain Biking
The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers over 30 trails with varying difficulty, flow, and features. From beginner-friendly loops to technical descents, it’s a playground for riders of all levels, set in lush native forest with glimpses of the coast. And just opened, in Spring 2025, the Pekenui Jump and Skills Park, which covers an entire hillside at the bike park's entrance, features three jump lines, two climbs, a scenic ridge descent, and an area for honing bike handling skills!
Local paths and trails
There are plenty more opportunities to ride your way through Northland, along the many shared paths, community mountain biking parks, and rural trails. The Kaihu Valley Trail is probably the most significant in this category – Stage 1 is open and work continues on this west coast cycle trail which connects Dargaville and Kaihu.
So, whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Northland’s cycling scene is rich with adventure, connection, and discovery. Pack your gear, grab your mates, and get ready to ride alongside the stories of Taitokerau Northland.