Our adventure begins with a scenic journey from Auckland to Cape Reinga, the northern most tip of New Zealand. Sit back, relax, and take in the ever-changing landscapes as we make our way north. It’s a long drive—around six hours—but there will be plenty of opportunities to stretch our legs and enjoy the sights along the way.

By evening, we’ll arrive in Pukenui, a charming coastal settlement near the Cape. We’ll round off the day with a shared meal, a chance to get to know each other, and to anticipate the incredible cycling ahead.

The adventure truly begins! After a short 50-minute drive to Cape Reinga, we’ll unload the bikes and take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. A visit to the iconic lighthouse is a must—along with the all-important starting photo to mark the beginning of our journey.

From there, we head south, winding our way toward Te Paki Stream. Here, you’ll see sandboarding down the towering dunes, maybe a fishing competition or horse trekking.

Then, it’s onto the legendary 90 Mile Beach for an unforgettable ride. With the sea breeze at our backs, we’ll cover an incredible 84 kilometers along the hard-packed sand, all the way to Ahipara. Expect stunning coastal views, endless horizons, and a truly one-of-a-kind cycling experience.

Leaving Ahipara behind, we ride inland through the heart of Northland’s countryside. The route takes us south through the small rural settlements of Broadwood and Kohukohu. From there, we board the Rawene Car Ferry for a short but scenic crossing over the Hokianga Harbour.

Once on the other side, we continue to Opononi, where we’ll visit the statue of Opo the dolphin—a local legend who captured hearts in the 1950s. It’s a great spot to take in the stunning harbour views before the afternoon’s adventure begins.

Our ride then takes us uphill into the lush Waipoua Forest, home to some of New Zealand’s most ancient and towering trees. The highlight? A visit to Tāne Mahuta, the majestic giant kauri tree that has stood for over 2,500 years. Standing beneath its immense canopy is a humbling and unforgettable experience.

We begin the day riding south from the towering kauri of Waipoua Forest, descending towards the historic town of Dargaville. Known for its kumara growing, gum-digging and rich Māori heritage, Dargaville sits on the banks of the Northern Wairoa River and offers a perfect spot for a well-earned break.

From here, we push onward to Pouto Point, a remote finger of land forming the northern headland of the vast Kaipara Harbour. At the water’s edge, we board the Kaipara Cruises ferry for a spectacular three-hour journey across one of New Zealand’s largest natural harbours. Sit back, relax, and take in the ever-changing coastal scenery before arriving in Parakai/Helensville to end the day.

After a hearty cafe breakfast at The Red Door Cafe in Helensville, we set off south through Kumeu, a region known for its fruit, vineyards and rolling farmland. Passing through Auckland’s western fringe at Westgate, we join the Te Atatū cycleway, a scenic route skirting the Waitematā Harbour, leading us straight into Auckland’s vibrant CBD. From here, we climb Mt Eden, taking in panoramic views of the city and its surrounding volcanic landscape.

In the afternoon, we relocate to Clevedon, a charming rural town south of Auckland, where we resume our ride along the picturesque firth of Thames coastline. The route winds through Kawakawa Bay, Kaiaua, and Miranda, offering breathtaking views and a chance to cycle through the renowned Shorebird Coast Sanctuary, home to thousands of migratory wading birds. A truly diverse day, blending urban energy with coastal serenity.

Today’s ride takes us along the Hauraki Rail Trail, a scenic and mostly flat route perfect for stretching the legs and soaking in the lush green landscape. We start by cruising along stopbanks, passing through a bird sanctuary, before crossing the Kopu Bridge and continuing south to Paeroa, home of the iconic L&P bottle, where we’ll stop for a classic photo.

For those looking for an extra adventure, there’s an optional side trip from Waihi Train Station through the breathtaking Karangahake Gorge. This section weaves through the remnants of the region’s gold mining past, including the Victoria Battery and the historic Karangahake Tunnel, beautifully illuminated as you ride alongside the Ohinemuri River back to Paeroa.

The journey continues in the afternoon as we follow the Hauraki Rail Trail toward Te Aroha. Riders seeking an additional challenge can push on further to Matamata, with rolling countryside and the promise of a rewarding ride.

Today’s ride takes us deep into the heart of the Waikato River Trail, a stunning route that winds past three hydro power stations and showcases the beauty of New Zealand’s largest river. From Matamata, we make our way to Arapuni, where the trail truly begins. Expect a mix of flowing gravel sections, scenic boardwalks, and some exciting Grade 3 riding as we navigate the rolling terrain.

Before reaching Waipapa Dam, we tackle a mix of smooth trails and more challenging gravel paths, offering a rewarding ride through native bush and alongside the ever-present Waikato River. The final stretch into Mangakino is a highlight, with boardwalks hugging the lake’s edge and a fantastic sense of remoteness.

We finish the day in Mangakino, a peaceful lakeside village—perfect for unwinding after an adventurous day on the bike.

We begin the day riding out from the lodge, rejoining the Waikato River Trail as we head towards the Aritaki Swing Bridge and the lower entrance of the Pureora Forest Park. It’s a busy and morning with the stop at the “centre or the North Island” marker, by late morning we arrive at the beginning of the Timber Trail, where we might be greeted by the calls of native Kākā (parrots) and the rare Kōkako (wattlebirds).

The adventure truly begins with a 13-kilometre climb up Mount Pureora, a steady ascent through lush native forest. Reaching the top is a rewarding moment, and from here, the real thrill begins—a long, flowing descent featuring stunning suspension bridges, historic railway cuttings, and breathtaking views of the forest canopy from above.

This is a day filled with challenge, beauty, and the joy of riding through one of New Zealand’s most iconic backcountry trails.

Our journey continues through the heart of the Timber Trail, taking us over more suspension bridges, through historic railway cuttings, and past old tramway turnstiles. One of the day’s highlights is the Ongarue Spiral, a remarkable feat of railway engineering that showcases the ingenuity of early timber transport.

From here, riders can push on to Taumarunui, rolling into town after a rewarding two days on the trail.

In the afternoon, we transfer to Owhango, where the adventure continues with a scenic ride into the remote Blue Duck Station—a working farm and conservation project deep in the Whanganui backcountry. This rugged, off-the-grid destination is the perfect place to unwind, soak in the scenery, and enjoy a true taste of New Zealand’s wild landscapes.

Our adventure continues as we depart Blue Duck Station, heading up the Kaiwhakauka Track—a remote route across a farm road, single track and gravel road that climbs steadily through native forest. At the top, we reach the trig point and Māori Pou, marking a historic and spiritual site with breathtaking views over the valley below and east to Mt Ruapehu.

From here, we past the settler memorial, a poignant reminder of the veterans and families who once tried to carve out a life in this rugged landscape. The trail then descends and winds its way toward one of the North Island’s most iconic landmarks—the Bridge to Nowhere. Standing as a testament to abandoned dreams, this concrete bridge spans a deep gorge in the middle of untouched wilderness.

From the Mangapurua Landing, we swap bikes for a jet boat ride down the Whanganui River, speeding through towering gorges and past lush native bush before arriving at Pipiriki, where we settle in for the night.

After ten incredible days of riding, today is a well-earned rest day in the charming provincial town of Whanganui. This is the perfect chance to put your bike aside, relax, and recharge. For those keen to explore, you can visit the Sarjeant Art Gallery, take a trip on a riverboat or wander through the historic precinct.

Back on the bike today as we resume our journey from Hunterville, following quiet country roads (mostly sealed) that wind through the scenic Rangiwahia and Apiti settlements. Expect rolling hills, wide open landscapes, and a real sense of rural New Zealand. Our destination is the secluded Makoura Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled in the hills—perfect for unwinding after another rewarding day in the saddle.

Relocation day.