New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, strikingly similar in landscapes to another one of my favorite trips: Patagonia.
A motorcycle trip in New Zealand is an extensive topic—far too broad for a single blog post. There are so many routes, variations, and hidden corners of this beautiful country that one could explore. Still, I want to inspire you by sharing my journey and suggest some alternatives to customize your trip according to your preferences.
North or South?
One of the biggest dilemmas when planning a New Zealand adventure is: Should my trip focus on the North Island, the South Island, or both? Annoyingly enough, the answer is “it depends.” But for a quick recommendation: the South Island. If it’s not your first visit to New Zealand, you’ll probably know better already. But if it’s your first trip, the temptation is to cram in as much as possible, especially since you’re likely traveling quite far to get there—it feels like a waste to limit yourself to just one island. That’s exactly what I did: I rented a motorcycle in Auckland and rode southward, stage by stage, all the way down to Otago. The issue is, unless you have three or four weeks, this plan might be a bit overly ambitious. You’ll likely end up rushing from place to place without really enjoying the destinations. My advice? Only go for both islands if you have at least three weeks to a month. Otherwise, choose just one island. Why the South Island? Because of the stunning Southern Alps and its incredible diversity of landscapes. Don’t get me wrong—the North Island is beautiful, but the southern half of the country offers motorcyclists something extra, especially when it comes to scenery and breathtaking roads.
Arrival
You’ll probably arrive in Auckland, the country’s only sizeable city, located near the northern tip of the North Island. If you want to rent a motorcycle, there are plenty of options here. Many rental companies have branches in Auckland and at least one other location further south, often working together in partnerships. At the time of my trip, other major rental locations were Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Just a few links, you’ll find they all have excellent bikes and customer service:
Motorent.nz (I got mine here)
Bad Horse Bikes
NZ Bike
Te Waipounamu
Kiwi Motorcycle Rentals
If your intention is to explore only the South Island, I’d recommend taking a domestic flight to Christchurch, which is likely the ideal starting point. Alternatively, if you want to visit the capital and enjoy the beautiful ferry crossing from North to South, choose Wellington. Queenstown is also a charming and tourist-friendly town—the gateway to the stunning Otago region—but it’s notably smaller than Wellington and Christchurch.
If you’re planning to ship your motorcycle, keep in mind it must be immaculately clean before clearing customs. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay for costly sanitization at your expense. New Zealand has strict regulations to prevent invasive alien species from entering the country, which applies not just to motorcycles but also to personal belongings like food and gear.
The North Island
North Island It’s challenging to suggest a specific itinerary, as it largely depends on time constraints and personal travel goals. I’ll simply share some possible routes and highlights.
My itinerary aimed to see as much as possible while heading directly south, crossing the island centrally towards Wellington. You can easily modify this route with additional detours based on your interests and time.
If you’re heading south via Hamilton, it’s practically impossible to miss the North Island’s most famous geothermal region—packed with cultural sites, natural wonders, and amazing attractions. I’d suggest heading straight to Rotorua along the iconic Thermal Explorer Highway. Make sure to set aside a few hours to enjoy the area’s highlights: Lake Rotorua, Okere Falls, the Pohutu geyser, and the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
From Rotorua, head south to Taupō, a pleasant town set alongside a beautiful lake. A stop at the impressive Huka Falls is a must, and don’t miss the scenic Waikite Valley Road and Western Lake Road along the western shore of Lake Taupō.
Possible Side-Trips: If you have extra time, consider these detours from north to south:
- Visit Raglan via SH23, explore nearby villages, Nikau and Waitomo caves, and the stunning Wairēinga / Bridal Veil Falls.
- Coromandel Peninsula: lush, sunny, and home to incredible views and beaches, including Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove.
- The Pacific East Coast loop: a stunning coastal route from Tauranga to East Cape Lighthouse, then south to Napier.
After Taupō, you might decide to visit Napier, a charming coastal town known for its Art Deco architecture and beach resorts, or head directly south through Tongariro National Park. Due to time constraints, I chose the latter. Following SH1 towards Wellington will take you through this breathtaking park. If time allows, exploring the park further is highly recommended.
A circuit around Tongariro National Park offers spectacular views of volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes, and unique geothermal landscapes. The iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.4 km) is considered New Zealand’s best one-day trek, featuring volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and active fumaroles.
From Taupō, your route passes the Orakei Korako geothermal area, known for silica terraces and the rare Ruatapu Cave, and continues to Tūrangi, famous for trout fishing and rafting on the Tongariro River. Next is Whakapapa Village, the heart of the park, perfect for hikes like Taranaki Falls Track (6 km), Tama Lakes (17 km), or taking a scenic gondola ride up to Knoll Ridge Chalet for stunning views.
Passing through National Park Village, a hub for trekking and mountain biking, you’ll reach Ōhakune—lively in winter for skiing on Mt. Ruapehu and excellent for summer walks to Waitonga Falls or Lake Rotokura. The loop ends in Waiouru, passing the Tangiwai rail disaster memorial.
Heading directly south towards Wellington, you can choose to skirt the mountain on the western side, offering stunning views of peaks and lush valleys, or the eastern side through New Zealand’s fascinating desert landscape.
After Tongariro, the SH1 route to Wellington crosses extensive agricultural and wine-producing areas, but without major attractions for motorcyclists. The Kāpiti Coast offers a nature reserve with hiking trails and birdwatching, while Palmerston North, despite its rugby museum, isn’t essential. Wellington, however, is fascinating: compact, vibrant, and set on a stunning harbor. Don’t miss Te Papa, the national museum, and the Wētā Workshop for film lovers. Surrounding areas provide spectacular coastal roads—perfect for one last ride before catching the ferry to the South Island.
To reach the South Island, you’ll need to book a ferry from Wellington to Picton. The crossing takes around 3.5 hours, with frequent departures, but booking ahead is advisable, especially during peak season. Once on board, you’ll need to park and secure your bike with provided ropes. For the best scenic views, travel in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy clear vistas of rolling hills, crystal-clear waters, or a spectacular sunset approaching Picton.
Side Trips
The Coromandel Peninsula
What can I say? It’s the perfect blend of scenic curves, pristine nature, and spectacular beaches. I allowed myself a few days of relaxation at the end of my trip in this stunning, lush, and sunny corner of the country.
Starting from Thames, SH25 winds along the peninsula’s western coast. The road is twisty and can be frustrating at times due to limited overtaking opportunities, but the views over the Hauraki Gulf are exceptional. About halfway to Coromandel Town, you might want to stop at Rapaura Water Gardens, a charming little paradise with waterfalls and beautifully maintained gardens.
Coromandel Town is almost a mandatory stop. It’s a small, laid-back town perfect for a coffee break or some fish & chips before continuing. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can push further north to Colville, the last stop before the sealed road ends and gravel begins. The road is beautiful, and there’s an opportunity to visit the nearby nature reserve—well worth it if you’re staying in Coromandel Town.
From Coromandel Town, if you continue your tour, you’ll cross the peninsula toward the east coast, home to postcard-perfect beaches like Kuaotunu. Here, stopping at Luke’s Kitchen is almost obligatory. Slightly south, Whitianga is the largest town in the area, with a great selection of restaurants and cafés. There’s a gravel shortcut from Coromandel Town, but I’ve never personally tried it.
The Pacific Coast
If you have extra time, this coastal itinerary can easily connect to the Thermal Explorer Highway or, better yet, your Coromandel Peninsula exploration. Be aware, the route is long and cannot be done in a single day. The road hugs the Bay of Plenty, offering expansive ocean views and a relaxed vibe. Whakatāne is a good place to stop for a tour of Whakaari/White Island. Continuing towards East Cape, the road becomes more isolated and scenic, with gentle curves and untouched nature until you reach the East Cape Lighthouse—the easternmost point of New Zealand. Expect gravel roads and a challenging climb to reach the lighthouse. Following SH35 south, you’ll reach Gisborne, a welcoming city with strong Māori influence, famous for Chardonnay—definitely worth a winery stop. The road to Napier crosses rolling hills and fruit plantations before arriving in one of New Zealand’s most charming towns. Napier is a haven for Art Deco lovers, seemingly frozen in the 1930s.
The Far North
Disclaimer: I haven’t personally been north of Auckland, but exploring the northern peninsula loop seemed very appealing had I had more time. Here are two suggested itineraries, guided by research.
Heading north from Auckland, you can follow the eastern coast to Goat Island, a fantastic snorkeling destination—or just stop to admire the crystal-clear waters. Continue along SH1 to Waipu, known for its limestone caves, and Whangārei, a lively town with beautiful Whangārei Falls just minutes from the center.
Further north, the Bay of Islands is filled with incredible bays and coves. Paihia makes a great base for exploring, perhaps by boat. If time permits, a detour to Cape Reinga offers breathtaking views where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea.
Descending along the wild western coast, stop at Waipoua Forest to see the giant Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest kauri tree. SH12 snakes through the forest, with highlights like Ripiro Beach’s sand dunes and Parakai Springs.
The South Island
Once you’ve reached the South Island, your trip can follow two main routes: south to Christchurch and then Queenstown, exploring lakes and stunning fiords like Milford Sound, possibly returning along the west coast and Arthur’s Pass. Alternatively, head towards Nelson, exploring the wine region, Nelson Lakes, and Abel Tasman National Park. Both itineraries can easily be combined or done separately, but keep in mind distances are considerable and roads—although well-maintained—are not highways, requiring plenty of time.
Marlborough & Nelson
Nelson makes a perfect base to explore the region. Known as one of New Zealand’s sunniest towns, it’s famous for wine production and boasts an extensive beach (Tahunanui Beach). Being the largest town in the area, you’ll find accommodations and services readily available.
From Picton, you could head towards Blenheim, then inland towards Lake Rotoroa. The motorcycle trip begins with a pleasant ride to Blenheim, the heart of Marlborough’s wine country—ideal for tastings. From Blenheim, Route 63 twists through the countryside, offering wide curves and peaceful landscapes with very little traffic. Lake Rotoroa is a hidden gem surrounded by mountains and forests, perfect for a relaxing break.
At the junction with SH6 near Kawatiri, head north towards Motueka and Nelson, where you’ll ride through rolling hills and valleys. Nelson itself is sunny, charming, relaxed, and renowned for excellent food. If you have time, a detour to Cable Bay provides spectacular views.
From Nelson, the sunny road winds towards Motueka, offering a pleasant walk along an estuary rich with birdlife. Access to Abel Tasman National Park is nearby, and a full-day loop walk through the park is a fantastic experience—worth staying overnight. Alternatively, explore the stunning coast by boat or kayak.
Beyond Motueka, the road to Collingwood becomes wilder, with tighter curves and minimal traffic. Reaching Collingwood may take longer than expected due to the road conditions. Collingwood is quiet and nature-filled, with tours departing to Farewell Spit, a remote nature reserve featuring immense dunes and migratory birds. Wharariki Beach, with its seal colony, is incredibly picturesque.
After Kaikōura, either continue along the coastal road to Gore Bay or take the winding but enjoyable Route 70, stopping at Hanmer Springs, a tourist town known for thermal pools, spas, and hiking.
Canterbury, Pacific Route & Christchurch
Whether you’ve visited Nelson or not, the almost mandatory route leads to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, via the eastern coast. The journey from Picton to Christchurch passes Blenheim—worth stopping for a walk in Wither Hills or wine tasting—before following a pleasant coastal road south. If you plan a stop, Kaikōura is recommended. Nestled beneath snowy mountains, it’s popular among locals and ideal for simple walks along its peninsula.
Christchurch
Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city, is modern and distinctly English, undergoing epic reconstruction following the 2010/11 earthquakes. The city offers urban attractions like museums, galleries, and great restaurants, perfect for resupplying and stretching your legs. Highlights include the Botanical Gardens, New Brighton’s iconic pier, Sumner Beach, and Waimairi Beach.
The weather on the east coast is generally good but can be windy and change rapidly.
From Christchurch, you might choose a circular route through Arthur’s Pass to Greymouth—an absolute must for alpine views—returning via Lewis Pass, passing through Maruia and Hanmer Springs, popular summer resorts.
Personally, during my two days in Christchurch, I ventured to Arthur’s Pass and returned, planning to cover Lewis Pass on the return trip from Queenstown via the rainy west coast.
Inland Scenic Route
One stretch of road without many alternatives—simply because it’s one of the most enjoyable and scenic—is the Inland Scenic Route. This drive meanders through the Canterbury plains, skirts the foothills of the Southern Alps, crosses the legendary Mackenzie Country, and ends in Queenstown, probably the most beautiful town on the South Island.
Keep in mind, like many other routes, this is long and there are plenty of places you’ll want to stop. Although there aren’t many big towns along this route, it might be wise to split it into two parts.
The first part of the journey passes through lush valleys surrounding Rakaia Gorge, where milky-blue waters squeeze through a narrow gorge, spanned by twin bridges along SH72. Consider stopping for a walk along the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, offering beautiful views from terraces above the gorge. The route continues through equally charming scenery toward Geraldine and Fairlie. Make sure to stop at the lovely Staveley Store & Cafe, a cozy and charming café along the way.
Lake Tekapo
About halfway, the road beautifully descends along the ridge into the vast basin of Mackenzie Country, with panoramic views of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park’s peaks. Lake Tekapo township, established as part of a hydroelectric project, overlooks a turquoise, opalescent lake backed by an impressive alpine landscape. It’s no surprise this small town has become extremely popular among travelers. The main attraction is the Church of the Good Shepherd, a quaint lakeside church built from stone and oak in 1935. Don’t miss the nearby observatory atop a private hill, which offers a breathtaking 360° view. There’s a small entry fee, but you can ride your motorcycle right up to the viewpoint.
If time allows, consider a detour to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu–South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The park is very mountainous—nineteen of New Zealand’s 23 mountains above 3,000 meters, including Aoraki/Mt Cook (3,724 m), are located here. Popular short walks include Hooker Valley, Kea Point, and Sealy Tarns, all starting from Mt Cook Village.
Shortly after Tekapo, you’ll pass equally stunning Lake Pukaki and several smaller lakes within Mackenzie Country and the adjacent Waitaki Valley. Remarkably, these lakes overflow with surreal blue waters, sharply contrasting with the surrounding flint-gray mountains. Tiny rock particles, known as “glacial flour,” ground by glacial erosion, give the lakes their incredible color—scenes reminiscent of Patagonia.
Queenstown
As you approach Queenstown, the mountains become more dramatic, and soon you’ll find the town framed by the jagged peaks of The Remarkables along the shores of winding Lake Wakatipu. As New Zealand’s primary tourist hub, Queenstown is filled with shops, restaurants, and tour operators—perfect for taking a break, relaxing with a lakeside walk, hiking the nearby mountains, or simply enjoying coffee at a downtown café. The area around Queenstown is truly lovely, and how much you explore or partake in tourist activities depends entirely on you.
For me, the last stop before looping back north was Milford Sound, one of the country’s most famous fjords. Keep in mind two important points before heading out: Milford Sound may seem close by air, but the road makes a significant loop via Te Anau, covering around 290 km (approximately four hours). Beyond Te Anau, the road is winding, and weather conditions are often poor. You might consider staying overnight in Te Anau and taking a tourist bus for the final leg, or visiting directly from Queenstown.
The Rainy West Coast
After Queenstown and Milford Sound, you could continue south to Invercargill, then return north along the quieter eastern coastal road through Dunedin and Timaru, back toward Christchurch. Due to limited time, this wasn’t suitable for my trip. Instead, I opted to return via the west coast road (SH6), passing through Wanaka and Fox Glacier on the western side of Mt Cook, then across Lewis Pass heading north to Blenheim and Nelson. The route is appealing, but there’s something crucial to consider: it rains almost constantly along the west coast, year-round, due to western winds hitting the mountain range. Consequently, inland areas near the lakes and Arthur’s Pass are drier and more arid. Prepare for a rainy ride if you choose SH6.
Wanaka, one of the first towns you encounter after Queenstown, is famous for its lake and the country’s most photographed willow tree. Fox Glacier is also worth a stop, weather permitting. Apart from these highlights, there are few points of interest along SH6 as the area is sparsely populated. It might be wise to return to Christchurch via Arthur’s Pass if you haven’t visited it yet. If your destination is Nelson (as mine was), you can continue directly north from Greymouth or, as I did, cross the Alps via Lewis Pass before heading north along the east coast.
Whatever itinerary you choose, remember to enjoy the experience without rushing. New Zealand’s beautifully maintained roads will make your ride enjoyable—it’s better to see fewer places thoroughly than to rush through many. Also, remember that New Zealand uses the metric system, and the maximum speed limit is 110 km/h!