Cycling in Oceania
Where to cycle in Oceania, from New Zealand's Great Rides to Australia's rail trails and wine-country routes.
Australia and New Zealand have invested heavily in cycle touring, and both now offer superb networks of dedicated trails through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. From gentle rail trails to alpine crossings, there is a route for every level.
New Zealand’s official Great Rides thread through mountains, vineyards and coast, while Australia’s rail trails and long-distance routes cross wine country, forest and outback. The riding is well signposted and well supported, with plenty of options for a relaxed, scenic tour.
These are the rides worth planning a trip around.
Where to Cycle in Oceania#
Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand The country’s original and best-loved rail trail runs 152km through the golden hills and historic gold-mining towns of Central Otago. Gentle gradients, big-sky scenery and welcoming country pubs make it ideal for a multi-day tour. It kick-started New Zealand’s cycle-trail boom.
Alps 2 Ocean, New Zealand New Zealand’s longest continuous cycle trail descends 300km from the flanks of Aoraki/Mount Cook to the Pacific at Oamaru. It passes glacial lakes, canals and high country on a spectacular, mostly downhill journey. The alpine start is unforgettable.
Munda Biddi Trail, Australia One of the world’s longest off-road cycling trails, running over 1,000km through the forests of Western Australia’s southwest. It links towns and campsites along a purpose-built path through towering karri and jarrah. It is a true wilderness adventure.
The Timber Trail, New Zealand An 85km backcountry ride through the ancient forests of the central North Island, crossing dramatic suspension bridges. Remote and beautiful, it is a highlight of the country’s Great Rides network. Wildlife and birdsong accompany the ride.
West Coast Wilderness Trail, New Zealand A 130km journey across the South Island’s wild West Coast, from Greymouth to Ross, through rainforest, wetlands and gold-rush history. Glowworm dells and lake views punctuate the route. The moody coastal scenery is unique.
Great Victorian Rail Trail, Australia Australia’s longest continuous rail trail stretches 134km through the countryside north of Melbourne, crossing trestle bridges and passing wineries and country towns. Its easy gradients suit families and first-time tourers. The rural scenery is quintessentially Victorian.
The Great Taste Trail, New Zealand A relaxed loop around Nelson and the top of the South Island, linking vineyards, breweries, orchards and beaches. As the name suggests, it is as much about the food and wine as the riding. The sunny climate helps.
Mawson Trail, Australia A 900km route from Adelaide into the rugged Flinders Ranges, mixing quiet back roads and outback tracks. It rewards the adventurous with dramatic gorge country and classic South Australian scenery. Remote and demanding, it is a bucket-list ride.
Hauraki Rail Trail, New Zealand An easy, flat trail southeast of Auckland linking historic gold towns, the Karangahake Gorge and the coast. Tunnels, river crossings and cafes make it a popular family outing. It is one of the country’s most accessible Great Rides.
Queenstown Trails, New Zealand Over 130km of scenic trails fan out around Queenstown, linking lakes, rivers, vineyards and gorges. Wineries and cafes make perfect stops, and the mountain backdrop is constant. Options range from gentle to genuinely challenging.
Riesling Trail, Australia A gentle 35km rail trail through South Australia’s Clare Valley wine region, rolling past cellar doors and country pubs. It is a delightful way to combine cycling with wine tasting. Spring wildflowers add to the appeal.
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Australia Queensland’s longest rail trail runs 161km through rolling farmland and country towns of the Brisbane Valley. Warm weather and gentle grades make it a pleasant year-round ride. It is steadily growing in popularity.