The Best Cycling Tour Packages In New Zealand In 2023

New Zealand is a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts, and good reason. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, well-maintained cycle trails, and abundance of outdoor activities, it's no surprise that cycling tours have become increasingly popular among tourists visiting the country.

For beginners, cycling tours allow them to explore New Zealand's stunning scenery while getting active and improving their fitness. Cycling tours also offer a unique perspective on the country's culture and local way of life and the chance to meet other like-minded travellers.

In this article, we'll explore some of the best cycling tour packages in New Zealand explicitly designed for beginners. We'll highlight some of the most popular routes, provide details on tour packages offered by various companies, and offer tips on preparing for a cycling tour.

North Island Cycling Tours

The North Island of New Zealand offers beginners a diverse range of cycling tour options. North Island cycling tours allow beginners to experience some of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenery and cultural attractions while enjoying a fun and active vacation.

Hauraki Rail Trail
This 3-day trail takes you through the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, the Hauraki Gulf coastline, and the scenic Karangahake Gorge.

Waikato River Trail
The Waikato River Trail is a 3-4 day trail that takes you through some of the North Island's most beautiful scenery, including the Waikato River, Lake Karapiro, and the Pureora Forest Park.

Timber Trail
The Timber Trail is a 2-day trail that winds its way through the Pureora Forest Park lush forests, passing by waterfalls, suspension bridges, and historic logging tramways.

Hawke's Bay Trails
The Hawke's Bay Trails is a trail network that takes you through some of the North Island's most productive wine and fruit-growing regions, including the Tukituki River Valley and the coastal town of Napier.

Mountains to Sea
The Mountains to Sea trail is a 6-day trail that starts in the Tongariro National Park and takes you through the volcanic landscapes of the Central Plateau, past the stunning Whanganui River, and down to the Tasman Sea.

These routes are relatively easy and suitable for beginners, with well-maintained trails and stunning scenery. Along the way, cyclists can explore some of the North Island's top tourist attractions, such as the Hobbiton Movie Set, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and the Bay of Islands.

South Island Cycling Tours

The South Island of New Zealand is renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes, glacier-fed lakes, and rugged coastline. South Island cycling tours provide beginners with a unique opportunity to experience some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world while getting fit and enjoying the great outdoors.

Queenstown Trail
This 2-3 day trail takes you through some of the South Island's most breathtaking scenery, including Lake Wakatipu, the Arrow River, and the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown.

Alps 2 Ocean
The Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail is a 6-day trail that starts at the base of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain. It winds through the stunning Mackenzie Basin, past the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, and down to the coastal town of Oamaru.

West Coast Wilderness Trail
The West Coast Wilderness Trail is a 4-day trail that takes you through some of the South Island's most rugged and remote landscapes, including the dense rainforests of the West Coast and the wild beaches of the Tasman Sea.

Otago Central Rail Trail
The Otago Central Rail Trail is a 4-5 day trail that follows the path of a former railway line through the stunning Central Otago region, passing by historic gold-mining towns, orchards, and vineyards.

Tasman's Great Taste Trail
The Tasman's Great Taste Trail is a 2-3 day trail that takes you through the stunning coastal landscapes of the Tasman region, passing by vineyards, orchards, and beautiful beaches.

These beginner-friendly tours offer a unique opportunity to experience some of the South Island's most beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions. With well-maintained trails and stunning scenery, cyclists can explore some of the South Island's top tourist attractions, such as the Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound, and the historic gold-mining town of Greymouth.

Bonus: Safety, Training and Preparation Checklist for Beginners

Safety Guidelines

1. Always wear a helmet
   A properly fitted helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment you can wear.
2. Follow the rules of the road.
   Obey traffic signals and signs, and always ride on the correct side of the road.
3. Be visible
   Wear bright or reflective clothing, use lights and reflectors, and stay in well-lit areas.
4. Stay alert
   Keep your eyes on the road, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid distractions like headphones or mobile devices.
5. Stay hydrated
   Drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed to avoid dehydration.
6. Know your limits
   Choose a route and pace appropriate for your fitness level and experience.
7. Be prepared for weather changes.
   Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack appropriate clothing and gear.

Training and Preparation

1. Build endurance
   Start training well in advance to build up your endurance and improve your fitness level.
2. Practice cycling skills
   Practice cycling on different terrain and weather conditions to improve your cycling skills.
3. Stretching
   Incorporate stretching and flexibility exercises into your training to prevent injury.
4. Nutrition
   Eat a balanced and nutritious diet to fuel your body for the demands of cycling.
5. Mental preparation
   Visualise success and set achievable goals to boost your confidence and mental preparation for the tour.

Cycling Tours: An Opportunity to Enjoy New Zealand’s, Natural Beauty
Cycling tours in New Zealand offer beginners an incredible opportunity to explore the country's natural beauty while enjoying an active and healthy vacation. Cycling tours provide numerous benefits for beginners, including the chance to improve fitness levels, learn new skills, and experience the stunning landscapes of New Zealand in a unique and immersive way.

By following safety guidelines, preparing appropriately with the right equipment and gear, and advanced training, beginners can enjoy a safe and enjoyable cycling tour in New Zealand. With a range of options available on both the North and South Island, there is a cycling tour to suit every level of experience and fitness.

Escape By Cycle: New Zealand’s Top Cycle Tour CompanyEscape By Cycle is New Zealand's premier cycling tour company, offering a range of fully supported cycling tours showcasing the country's stunning landscapes and diverse culture. With a focus on providing exceptional customer service and unforgettable experiences, Escape By Cycle has earned numerous 5-star reviews from satisfied customers.

Escape By Cycle offers a range of tour options to suit every level of experience and fitness, from leisurely rides through the wine country to challenging adventures in the mountains. Their knowledgeable and friendly guides are passionate about cycling and committed to ensuring every tour is a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand, Escape By Cycle is the perfect choice. Book your cycling tour today and discover why so many travellers rave about the exceptional service and unforgettable experiences this top-rated cycle tour company offers.

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