19/10/2026
Rail trails provide wonderful terrain for leisurely cycle touring - away from vehicles, scenic, without steep inclines, and with interesting points at regular intervals where the trains used to stop.
Whether you call them rail trails, rails to trails or even Vias Verdes, utilising old rail routes as cycle-friendly pathways provides an interesting, safe and beautiful way to bike tour.
Here are two great examples from New Zealand's North and South Islands.
The Otago Central Rail Trail tour on the South Island is a 5 day guided cycle trip with highlights including historic tunnels and bridges, w**e tasting and even a chance to try your hand at the sport of curling! The tour runs from Queenstown to Dunedin.
The Hauraki Rail Trail adventure on the North Island is a 5 day self-guided cycle tour with highlights including gold rush heritage, small-town charm, birdlife and is "Hobbit country" with Hobbiton an optional stop you can add. The tour starts and ends in Thames, which is easily accessible from Auckland.
Find your NZ cycling adventure at our website โ link in our bio.