New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, is a dream destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, winding roads, and diverse scenery, it offers some of the best motorcycle routes in the world. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newbie looking for an adventure, New Zealand has something to offer everyone. So, gear up, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this incredible country.

Why New Zealand is a Rider's Paradise

Guys, let's be real – New Zealand is basically a giant, scenic playground for motorcyclists. The roads are well-maintained, the traffic is light (especially outside of the main cities), and the views? Oh man, the views! Imagine cruising along coastal highways with the ocean breeze in your face, carving through mountain passes with breathtaking vistas at every turn, and exploring lush rainforests teeming with unique wildlife. It's an experience that will stay with you long after you've hung up your helmet.

One of the main reasons New Zealand is so great for motorcycle touring is the sheer variety of landscapes you can experience in a relatively small area. In a single day, you could ride from a sandy beach to a snow-capped mountain, passing through rolling green hills and dense forests along the way. This diversity makes every ride an adventure, with something new and exciting to discover around every corner.

Another factor that makes New Zealand a rider's paradise is the friendly locals. Kiwis are known for their hospitality and are always happy to help out a fellow traveler. Whether you need directions, advice on the best local attractions, or just a friendly chat, you're sure to be welcomed with open arms. Plus, there are plenty of motorcycle-friendly accommodations and services available throughout the country, making it easy to plan and execute your dream motorcycle tour.

And let's not forget about the roads themselves. New Zealand's roads are generally well-maintained and offer a good mix of challenging twists and turns and smooth, flowing stretches. While some of the more remote roads can be narrow and winding, they are usually well-surfaced and offer stunning views that make the extra effort worthwhile. Just be sure to take your time, ride within your limits, and be aware of potential hazards such as gravel, potholes, and wandering livestock.

Finally, New Zealand is a safe and stable country with a low crime rate, making it a worry-free destination for motorcycle touring. You can relax and focus on enjoying the ride, knowing that you're in a safe and welcoming environment. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your New Zealand motorcycle adventure today!

Top Motorcycle Routes in New Zealand

Alright, let's dive into some of the best motorcycle routes New Zealand has to offer. These routes are hand-picked for their stunning scenery, challenging roads, and overall riding experience. Get ready to add these to your bucket list!

1. The Forgotten World Highway (SH43)

The Forgotten World Highway, or State Highway 43, is a 150km (93 miles) stretch of road that winds its way through the remote and rugged landscape of the central North Island. This route is not for the faint of heart, as it includes gravel sections, narrow winding roads, and steep climbs. But if you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush forests, and historic landmarks.

One of the highlights of the Forgotten World Highway is the Moki Tunnel, a 180-meter long tunnel that was hand-dug by local farmers in the 1930s. This tunnel is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the early settlers who carved a life out of this challenging landscape. Another must-see attraction is the Lauren's Lavender Farm, where you can take a break from riding and enjoy the fragrant beauty of the lavender fields.

As you ride along the Forgotten World Highway, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The landscape is dotted with abandoned farms, historic pubs, and small settlements that have remained largely unchanged for decades. This route offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of rural New Zealand, and it's an experience that you won't soon forget.

Before you tackle the Forgotten World Highway, it's important to be prepared. Make sure your bike is in good condition, and that you have plenty of fuel, water, and snacks. The gravel sections can be challenging, especially for inexperienced riders, so take your time and ride within your limits. And be sure to check the weather forecast before you go, as the road can be closed due to flooding or landslides.

Despite the challenges, the Forgotten World Highway is an unforgettable motorcycle route that offers a unique and rewarding experience. If you're looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of rural New Zealand, this is the route for you.

2. The Coromandel Peninsula Loop

The Coromandel Peninsula, located on the east coast of the North Island, is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and relaxed vibe. The Coromandel Peninsula Loop is a scenic ride that takes you around the entire peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the interior.

This route is perfect for a multi-day trip, as there are plenty of charming towns and attractions to explore along the way. Start your journey in Auckland and head south to the town of Thames, the gateway to the Coromandel. From there, follow the coastal road north, stopping at popular spots like Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own natural hot tub in the sand, and Cathedral Cove, a stunning sea arch that's perfect for a photo op.

As you continue around the peninsula, you'll encounter winding roads that climb through lush rainforests and offer panoramic views of the coastline. Be sure to take a break in the town of Coromandel, where you can explore the historic gold mining district and sample some of the local seafood. And don't miss the chance to visit Driving Creek Railway, a unique narrow-gauge railway that winds its way through the forest to a pottery studio at the top of a hill.

The Coromandel Peninsula Loop is a relatively easy ride, with well-maintained roads and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. However, the roads can be narrow and winding in places, so it's important to stay focused and ride within your limits. And be sure to watch out for cyclists and other motorcyclists, as this is a popular route for both.

With its stunning scenery, relaxed vibe, and variety of attractions, the Coromandel Peninsula Loop is a must-do for any motorcycle enthusiast visiting New Zealand.

3. The Southern Alps Traverse

For the ultimate motorcycle adventure, tackle the Southern Alps Traverse on the South Island. This route takes you through the heart of the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glacial valleys, and pristine lakes. Be prepared for challenging roads, unpredictable weather, and an unforgettable experience.

There are several different routes you can take through the Southern Alps, but some of the most popular include the Haast Pass, the Arthur's Pass, and the Lewis Pass. Each of these passes offers its own unique scenery and challenges, but all are guaranteed to provide an adrenaline-pumping ride.

The Haast Pass is the southernmost of the three passes, and it's known for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. The Arthur's Pass is the highest of the three passes, and it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and glacial valleys. And the Lewis Pass is the northernmost of the three passes, and it's known for its rolling hills, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

No matter which route you choose, be prepared for challenging road conditions. The roads through the Southern Alps are often narrow, winding, and steep, and they can be subject to sudden changes in weather. It's important to check the weather forecast before you go, and to be prepared for rain, wind, and even snow. And be sure to take your time, ride within your limits, and be aware of potential hazards such as gravel, potholes, and wandering wildlife.

Despite the challenges, the Southern Alps Traverse is an unforgettable motorcycle route that offers some of the most stunning scenery in New Zealand. If you're looking for an adventure that will test your skills and reward you with breathtaking views, this is the route for you.

Tips for Motorcycle Touring in New Zealand

Okay, so you're pumped to ride New Zealand, right? Here are a few tips to make your trip even smoother and more enjoyable:

• Plan Ahead: New Zealand is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodations and rental bikes in advance, especially during peak season.
• Gear Up: Make sure you have the right gear for the conditions. This includes a good quality helmet, riding jacket and pants, gloves, and boots. And don't forget to pack rain gear, as the weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable.
• Ride Safely: New Zealand has some of the most stunning roads in the world, but they can also be challenging. Be sure to ride within your limits, and be aware of potential hazards such as gravel, potholes, and wandering livestock.
• Take Your Time: Don't try to cram too much into your trip. New Zealand is a country that's meant to be savored, so take your time and enjoy the ride.
• Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card for your phone, so you can stay connected and access important information such as weather forecasts and road closures.
• Respect the Locals: Kiwis are known for their hospitality, so be sure to treat them with respect. And don't forget to say "kia ora," which is the Māori greeting.

Enjoy the Ride!

New Zealand is an incredible destination for motorcycle touring. With its stunning landscapes, challenging roads, and friendly locals, it offers an experience that you won't soon forget. So, gear up, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this incredible country. Safe travels, and enjoy the ride!