Best Bike Tours in Auckland

Auckland, with its rolling hills and wide streets, is an ideal place to explore by bike. Here are some of the best ways to cycle around the city.

Matías Rodríguez

Matías Rodríguez

9 min read

Best Bike Tours in Auckland

Bicicleta cerca del rio |©Dmitri Ogleznev

If you're someone who likes to explore cities by bike, then Auckland is the place for you. Its urban layout, rolling hills and wide streets make it the ideal place for a cycling tour, whether it's through the old town or around the outskirts of the city.

Some of the best things to see and do in Auckland by bike include taking a half-day tour of the city's main attractions, exploring the city's most picturesque neighbourhoods on an express electric bike tour, taking a night tour with the assistance of a local guide, visiting Karangahake Gorge and cycling along the city's beautiful waterfront.

1. Half-day bike tour of Auckland's top attractions

Auckland City bike tour|©Jim Evans
Auckland City bike tour|©Jim Evans

If you want to get to know Auckland in a fun and effective way, a half-day bike tour of the main sites could be just the thing for you. During the tour you 'll discover the best routes and scenery as well as some of the most iconic areas of one of New Zealand's most visited destinations.

Attractions include Waitemata Harbour, the departure point for Auckland's cruise ships, Albert Park, the Parnell Quarter and the SkyCity Tower. At the harbour, you'll also have access to spectacular panoramic views of the city.

In Albert Park the cityscape fades away and the trees and green gardens take centre stage. In this park you can find some of the city's main attractions such as the Art Gallery and the National Museum, which is one of the best museums in Auckland.

In the Parnell neighbourhood, you will get to know one of the oldest and most picturesque neighbourhoods in the city. There you will come across fashion and art shops, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local dishes. You can also stop at St. Stephens Cemetery, home to some of Auckland's oldest graves.

A half-day bike tour is a great way to enjoy the main attractions in an active and healthy way. You can also opt for tours tailored to different levels of ability and interest, so you're sure to find an alternative to suit your expectations. You can also combine this tour with a food tour in Auckland.

Interesting details

  • Price: these tours have an initial cost of approximately 74 euros per person, including the bike and the assistance of an expert local guide.
  • Duration: approximately 6 hours.
  • Advantages of these tours: You will see the main sites of the city in a fun and comfortable tour.
  • Disadvantages of these tours: Generally speaking, you will have little time to rest and the lunch stop is short.

Book an Auckland bike tour

2. Express electric bike tour of Auckland's suburbs

Electric Bicycle Man|©KBO Bike
Electric Bicycle Man|©KBO Bike

If you're looking for a quick way to explore Auckland's most interesting neighbourhoods, an express electric bike tour might be just what you need. On these small group tours you'll get to see some of the city's main neighbourhoods, including Ponsonby, Herne Bay and Grey Lynn.

With the help of the electric bike, you can easily climb Auckland's steep hills and quickly reach Herne Bay, a seaside suburb full of elegant villas and golden sandy beaches.

From there, you can continue on to Grey Lynn, one of the city's most eclectic spots, where you'll find thrift shops, local produce markets and a variety of bars and restaurants, which is why it's often included on the best Auckland tours.

With the help of a local guide and the power of your electric bike, you can discover some of the city's most interesting and amazing sights in record time. These tours are also ideal if you're planning a short stay in the city. If that's your case, here's a list of things to do in Auckland in 3 days.

Interesting details

  • Price: these tours have an initial cost of approximately 81 euros per person, including the bike and the assistance of an expert local guide.
  • Duration: approximately 2.5 hours.
  • Advantages of these tours: you will be able to see several of the city's main sites in a short time.
  • Disadvantages of these tours: can be an expensive tour.

Book a bike tour of Auckland

3. Auckland Night Bike Tour

Cycling on the streets at night|©Tharrin
Cycling on the streets at night|©Tharrin

A night bike tour of Auckland can be an unforgettable experience if you are looking to discover the most fascinating parts of the city after sunset. During this tour you'll be able to take in the sights of the city and enjoy the unique atmosphere, especially when you pass the most iconic sites.

These tours will usually start at the harbour, where you can see the lights of the city reflected in the water. From there, you can take a scenic drive to the famous Harbour Bridge, which offers a breathtaking view of the skyline, especially if you plan to visit Auckland during the summer.

On Devonport Island, which is one of the most popular spots for tourists, you'll be able to take some of the best photographs of Mount Victoria, an ideal place to view the city's skyline from above. You can also visit Devonport's harbour, Waitemata and see the Rangitoto volcano in the background.

After Devonport, you will also visit the picturesque neighbourhood of Parnell, where you can see the famous St John's Anglican Church, illuminated by the city lights. You will also be amazed by the colonial architecture of the neighbourhood, as well as the houses and gardens with decorative lights.

The tour will end at the SkyCity Tower, one of the tallest buildings in New Zealand. From there you will have access to panoramic views of Auckland and its surroundings. This is definitely one of the best things to do at night in the city.

Interesting details

  • Price: these tours have an initial cost of approximately 66 euros per person, including the bike and the assistance of an expert local guide.
  • Duration: approximately 1 hour and a half.
  • Advantages of these tours: you will be able to visit the city during the night on a tour that will take you around the main sights of the city.
  • Disadvantages of these tours: it can be a very short tour, lasting less than 2 hours.

Book an Auckland bike tour

4. Private full day bike tour of Karangahake Gorge

Bike near the tunnel|©Glen Carpenter
Bike near the tunnel|©Glen Carpenter

The Karangahake Gorge full day private bike tour is an interesting adventure for nature and history lovers. Karangahake Gorge is a gorge in the Waikato region that offers unmissable panoramic views, ancient caves and a wealth of natural scenery. This private bike tour is the best way to explore all that this site has to offer.

The tour will usually start with a pick up from your accommodation in Auckland and a 1.5 hour drive to the Waikato region. Once there you will be taken on a 3 hour bike ride of approximately 14 kilometres. The experienced guide will take you through the gorge and give you information about the geology and ecology of the area.

During the tour you will visit the abandoned Talisman gold mine, where you can explore the dark cave and see the old mining tools. There you can take pictures and afterwards you can discover waterfalls, crystal clear rivers and beautiful scenery. The bike tour is suitable for cyclists of all abilities, with gentle trails and moderate terrain, making it one of the best full day tours from Auckland.

These tours usually include lunch and you can also choose to do an optional hike to the top of Mt Karangahake for panoramic views. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and is suitable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.

Details of interest

  • Price: these tours have an initial cost of approximately 190 Euros per person, including return transfers with hotel pick-up, bicycle and the assistance of an expert local guide.
  • Duration: approximately 10 hours.
  • Advantages of these tours: you will get to see one of the most beautiful places around Auckland.
  • Disadvantages of these tours: not compatible with a short stay in the city.

5. Auckland Waterfront Bicycle Tour

Cycling on the waterfront|©Antoine
Cycling on the waterfront|©Antoine

One of the most common bike tours is the Auckland waterfront tour, which allows you to explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the city from a unique perspective. Auckland is known for its waterfront views and the waterfront is one of the most popular places to enjoy them.

The tour will usually start in central Auckland, where you will meet your guide and get on your bike. After a short safety briefing, you will start cycling along the waterfront. The route is approximately 10 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours, so you can also combine it with the city's best food tours.

During the tour, you will discover the Waitemata Harbour skyline and see some of the city's most distinctive sites, such as the Sky Tower, Westhaven Marina and the Auckland Harbour Bridge. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the city, as your guide will share interesting information about the places you will visit and tell you interesting facts about the Maori tribes that inhabited the area.

The tour includes several stops at points of interest, where you can take pictures and enjoy the view. You will also have time for a break at a local coffee shop to enjoy a delicious New Zealand coffee and some cakes. If you prefer, you can also opt for a beer tour.

Details of interest

  • Price: these tours have an initial cost of approximately 66 euros per person, including the bike and the assistance of an expert local guide.
  • Duration: approximately 3 hours.
  • Benefits of these tours: You will get to see the best views of Auckland.
  • Disadvantages of these tours: You will not visit the suburbs, which have some of the city's main attractions.

How to book an Auckland bike tour?

three men smiling at the laptop|© Priscilla Du Preez
three men smiling at the laptop|© Priscilla Du Preez

You can either book the tours in advance online or opt to book a bike tour directly when you are in the city, although be aware that if you are planning to visit Auckland in December or during the summer months, as this is the peak season, you may lose your place on the tours.

Keep in mind that prices in New Zealand are dynamic, so if you book at the last minute you may experience price increases and changes to the date and time you choose to experience the experience.

Book an Auckland bike tour

What will I see on this type of tour?

Harbour with boats at sea|©Ashley Meyer
Harbour with boats at sea|©Ashley Meyer

You will be able to discover the main panoramic views of the city, especially during the tours along the waterfront or the natural sites on the outskirts of Auckland, but you will also get to know the city centre and the most picturesque neighbourhoods in depth, in a comfortable, easy and faster way than walking.

A bike tour will also be ideal if you are planning a short stay in the city, because you will be able to see a greater number of attractions in a better amount of time. If that's your case, here's a list of things you can do to discover Auckland in 3 days.

Book a bike tour of Auckland

Tips for a bike tour of Auckland

Dress comfortably|© Danilo Ćalić
Dress comfortably|© Danilo Ćalić

If you're planning a bike tour of Auckland, here are some tips to help you get the most out of the experience:

  • Dress appropriately: make sure you wear comfortable, bike-friendly clothing such as shorts or leggings, a light t-shirt and trainers. Also bring a light jacket and a hat to protect you from the sun and rain.
  • Bring sunscreen: Auckland can have very strong sunshine, especially during the summer. Wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn and protect your skin.
  • Follow safety rules: Respect road safety rules such as wearing a helmet and obeying traffic signs. Also pay attention to traffic and pedestrians at all times.
  • Take your time: don't rush and enjoy the views along the route. Take the time to take pictures and stop at places that interest you, but always keep the tour on track.
  • Wrap up warm: if you plan to visit Auckland in winter, take a coat and a mackintosh, as the coldest months can be the wettest of the year.

Why take a bike tour of Auckland?

Man on a bike|© Priscilla Du Preez
Man on a bike|© Priscilla Du Preez

Taking a bike tour of Auckland is an interesting way to explore the city, but it is also the ideal way to see more of the city, as during a bike tour you can visit places that would otherwise be difficult to reach by car or public transport. You can access pedestrian areas, alleyways and parks that are not accessible by motorised vehicles or the city's hop on-hop off tour bus.

You will also learn more about the history and culture of Auckland, as during your tours with an expert guide, you will visit places of tourist interest, while enjoying a fun experience.

Finally, a bike tour will allow you to discover the natural beauty of Auckland while interacting with the city in a unique way. Are you up for cycling around the city?

Book a bus tour of Auckland