guided motorcycle tours new zealand

Guided Motorcycle Tours of New Zealand

Booking now 2023-2024

Handcrafted Motorcycle Adventures

The best holiday you’ll ever have. Period

NZ Self Guided Motorcycle Tours

Bmw, triumph, harley-davidson.

Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Ducati

And Personalised New Zealand Self Guided Motorcycle Tours

New Zealand motorcycle tour guiding and Self Guided tour itinerary planning is a genuinely pleasurable activity for us…. We are bespoke planners and coordinators of tailor made motorcycle tour packages in New Zealand.

Our purpose comes from the commitment and satisfaction from partnering with our clients to create pleasurable, life-long motorcycle tour experiences. The very best New Zealand motorbike tour we can possibly deliver.

• We’re professionally trained motorcycle guides.
• We guide ALL of our New Zealand motorcycle tours personally – you tour with the owner.
• It’s as fun and pleasurable for us, as it is for you.

Size Does Matter

It seems that every motorcycle tour operator or rental operator self-proclaim themselves to be “ The Best New Zealand Motorcycle Rental” company, or “ NZ’s Premium Guided Tour Operator “.

We don’t aspire to be the biggest operator in New Zealand, and we’re certainly not going to use false puffery to badge ourselves as The Best   or The Premium .

We will assure you of this however. We love this business, and we love partnering with our clients to create THE BEST (oops! – there’s that word again) experience possible. Quality is more important than quantity. As our dear old Dad liked to say: “You can’t expect a diamond to be the size of a brick” . We know he was right.

New Zealand Motorcycle Rentals

We offer  a motorcycle rental options of the latest models from the world’s top manufacturers – BMW, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha,Ducati, etc. If it’s hot and in demand, we add it to our motorcycle tour and rental fleet. We have models available to suit all budgets. If the latest and and greatest is important to you, we can provide that. If you’re happy with trading the latest model for a great price on a great condition, well maintained previous model, we can help with that too.

Win a 12 day guided Motorcycle tour of New Zealand

Enter GoTourNZ’s annual Survey and Competition . Fill out the complete survey you go into a draw for a  free 12 day guided tour of New Zealand .

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and Peace-of-Mind Guarantees:

Our simple goal is to give you a vacation that you’ll remember with genuine pleasure and exhilaration until the day you shuffle off this Mortal Coil, and we set about achieving this in a professional and and friendly manner .

Follow these link for our Guided Tours Best of the Best and Best Value Guarantees.

Trust & Reputation:

We’re proud of our tours and also of the reputation that we’ve built. Click here to read some of our client comments , and see what others are saying about us.

Our past clients’ words will mean more to you than anything we say about ourselves!

Thanks for taking the time to visit our website and for checking out our motorbike rentals and selfguided tours .

We’d love to have the opportunity to provide you with a truly memorable New Zealand vacation.

John Fitzwater , Owner, Guide & Bottlewasher.

The best New Zealand Guided Motorcycle Tours .

NZ Self-guided Motorcycle Tours

Pre-booked pre-planned and personalised New Zealand motorcycle tour itineraries .

Motorcycle Rentals New Zealand

Economy to luxury.  Triumph , BMW , Harley Davidson , Honda , Suzuki , Yamaha , and Kawasaki .

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New Zealand Guided Motorcycle Tours

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Guided New Zealand Motorcycle Tours

At Open Road we carefully plan our range of guided tours to deliver what every motorcycle adventurer wants: a unique and truly unforgettable riding experience. You’ll explore the most beautiful and remote parts of New Zealand on our small group boutique tours and ride some of the most exciting roads in the world, often less-travelled routes that even the locals are unfamiliar with!

From the time we meet you at the airport, to the day you leave, we take care of all your arrangements so all you have to do is get here and ride. Imagine riding one of our classy Italian cruising maestros through the verdant New Zealand landscape by day, enjoying true Kiwi hospitality in your cosy hotel by night and indulging in delicious Pacific Rim cuisine and the finest beers & wines. It's a little touch of heaven right there.

14 Day Twin Island Discovery Tour

15 Day South Island Spectacular

24 Day Twin Island Discovery Tour

10 Day Twin Island Discovery Tour

We are strong advocates for rider safety and our aim is make sure that you have the best experience on our tours. In New Zealand we drive on the left-hand side of the road and often our roads are narrow & twisty. Its a good idea to brush up on our road rules & signs before your arrive. Check out the web sites below for helpful information on riding in NZ.

22 DAY TOUR (New Zealand – Forgotten World)

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• New Zealand

Ever wanted to explore everything that New Zealand has to offer from the seat of a Motorcycle? Then look no further! Our Guided Motorcycle Tour of New Zealand is the ultimate New Zealand adventure ride!

This tour is sure to excite your senses with all the delights of one of the most diverse and accessible countries in the world. Your route will take you from beautiful fjords and ancient alpine glaciers in the South Island to stunning sub-tropical beaches in Northland, with a huge variety of magnificent scenery and experiences in between.

Starting in Christchurch and ending in Auckland, traveling the full length of New Zealand from Bluff in the deep South to Cape Reinga in the far North, your 5,700km (3,500mi) route includes the best of what New Zealand has on offer and promises not to disappoint!

Suited to a wide range of rider experience and ability, from intermediate riders to experienced pros. You will be fully supported by our riding tour guides, supplied GPS routes, and a luggage & support van so you can ride freely each day without the hassle of cumbersome gear on the bike.

We can guarantee at the end of each day you will have a different, amazing, and unique experience to discuss with your friends over a well-earned refreshment, and great New Zealand food. Don’t delay, the tour is limited to 12 riders maximum for an exclusive experience and group safety.

Immerse yourself in Nature’s wonders – parrots, seals, dolphins, whales, albatross, rainforests, glaciers, the world’s best unspoiled natural scenic beauty is here in New Zealand. And no one offers all of this and the time to enjoy and savor each location more than Big Bike Tours!

Join  Big Bike Tours for a ride you will never forget!

This Guided Motorcycle Tour of New Zealand showcases a great selection of the country’s spectacular landscapes, remote wildernesses, and hidden treasures. The roads in New Zealand are excellent with flowing deserted highways, sweeping curves, and some great twisty sections, perfect for the ultimate riding experience.

You will not be disappointed with the scenery with a diverse range of jaw-dropping vistas, unforgettable natural landscapes, and spectacular views, you will experience many different highlights every day!

Tour Highlights: Rakia Gorge; Lake Tekapo; Mount Cook Views; Hydro dams; Moeraki Boulders; Catlins Coast & Lighthouse; Bluff – bottom of the South; Classic Motorcycle Museum; Te Anau & Milford Sound; Glenorchy & Queenstown; Crown Range; Southern Lakes; Haast Pass & Waterfalls; West Coast Glaciers; Punakaiki Pancake Rocks; Hanmer Springs Thermal Resort; Kaikoura Coastline; Queen Charlotte Sound; Interislander Ferry; Forgotten World Highway; Moki Tunnel; Lake Taupo; Rotorua Geothermal Areas; Maori Culture; Martha Mine; Coromandel Peninsula; Bay of Islands; Cape Reinga & Lighthouse; Hokianga Harbour Ferry; Tane Mahuta; Whangarei Falls; Auckland City of Sails

Please be informed, that we offer the best cost-benefit ratio for motorcycle touring in New Zealand. You can completely focus on your holiday, the adventure, the riding, and the incredible New Zealand. Come ride with us – the real deal !

CHRISTCHURCH – LAKE TEKAPO – DUNEDIN – INVERCARGILL – TE ANAU – MAGICAL MILFORD SOUND – QUEENSTOWN – FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER VILLAGE – WESTPORT – HAMMER SPRINGS VILLAGE – PICTON – WELLINGTON CITY – STRATFORD –  FORGOTTEN WORLD HIGHWAY – TAUPO – GISBORNE – ROTORUA – THAMES – PAIHIA – AHIPARA – AUCKLAND

(Distance: approximately 5,700 km / 3,550 miles)

Day 1. Christchurch, Arrival

Day 2. Christchurch – Lake Tekapo (266 km, 4 hours)

Day 3. lake tekapo – dunedin (317 km, 5-6 hours), day 4. dunedin – invercargill (266 km, 4-5 hours), day 5. invercargill – te anau (238 km, 4 hours), day 6. te anau - milford sound - te anau (235 km. 3 hours riding - or rest day), day 7. te anau - queenstown (172 km, 2 hours - optional 263 km, 5 hours), day 8. queenstown - franz josef glacier village (353 km, 5-6 hours), day 9. franz josef glacier village - westport (273 km, 4 hours), day 10. westport - hammer springs village (216 km, 3 hours), day 11. hammer springs village – picton (337 km, 5-6 hours), day 12. picton ferry & wellington city (ferry trip, 4 hours), day 13. wellington – stratford (384 km, 5-6 hours), day 14. stratford - taupo (via the forgotten world highway) (292 km, 4-5 hours), day 15. taupo - gisborne (359 km, 5-6 hours), day 16. gisborne - rotorua (274 km, 4 hours), day 17. rotorua (rest day), day 18. rotorua - thames (350 km, 5-6 hours), day 19. thames - paihia (339 km, 5-6 hours), day 20. paihia - ahipara (367 km, 5-6 hours), day 21. ahipara - auckland (345 km, 5-6 hours).

Day 22. Auckland, Departure

Some of the very best motorcycling roads in the world are to be found in the South Island of New Zealand thanks to the Southern Alps spine that runs virtually down the middle. Roads are often empty, with fantastic sweeping bends and great visibility. In contrast, the North Island also offers great riding, with its volcanic plateaus, rolling hills, beach-lined peninsulas, and thermal highways.

QUICK FACTS

• 21 Days & 5,700km+ motorcycle riding
• Motorcycle hire
• Riding Tour Guide
• Support Staff & Luggage Van
• Side Paniers or Top Box (if required)
• GPS Routes if required
• Mechanical breakdown assistance
• Technical and medical support
• Accommodation for 21 nights
• Daily breakfasts
• Welcome dinner on the first night
• Farewell dinner on the last night
• Transfers, Ferry Crossings, Road Tolls
• Full comprehensive motorcycle insurance
• Tour T-Shirt

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

• A minimum of 8 riders are required for the tour to proceed.
• The maximum number of participants is 12 riders.
• Riders are accompanied by a riding tour guide and a support/luggage van.
• The tour guides are locals with international participants, the tour language is English.
• Solo participants will be allocated a ½ twin shared room. The room will be shared with another participant of the same sex.
• Single room option is available for an additional cost, please see the pricing page.

TRAVEL, EXPLORE, DISCOVER…

On arrival in Christchurch on Day 1, transfers have been arranged from Christchurch Airport to the accommodation for the first night. A welcome dinner is included in the tour package on the first night where you will meet the staff, tour guides, and other tour participants. Day 2 will start with a transfer to our depot where we will have our Pre-Tour Briefing, this includes:

• W elcome & Introduction – tour overview
• Tour check-in – final paperwork and any extra payments
• Bike handover – individually run over each bike setup and functions with each rider
• Tour Description – outlining the route and some of the sights and activities
• Riding in New Zealand brief – road rules, conditions, hazards, and what to expect
• Health & safety briefing – what to do in case of any emergencies.

After the Pre-Tour Briefing and morning tea, we will then gear up ready for the first day’s ride to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo!

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

S t art: Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand Finish: Auckland, North Island, New Zealand

TOUR DEPARTURE TIME

Please arrive in Christchurch at least one day before the tour starts. We recommend two days before the tour start date to acclimate and avoid jet lag.

TOUR RETURN TIME

The tour will finish in the afternoon in Auckland. You will need to depart Auckland on the following day or afterward.

We recommend bringing your gear for the best comfort. All your excess luggage will be transported in the support van which will accompany the group for the duration of the tour.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING

While we provide most things you need for the 3-week tour of New Zealand we can’t supply absolutely everything, particularly personal items. You will need to bring with you the following items:

• P ersonal Clothing – At the end of each day’s riding you will want to change out of your riding gear into something a little more comfortable. Please bring with you changes of clothes for 3 weeks of travel. New Zealand has very changeable weather so make sure you have packed some warmer clothing if it gets cool. Most of our accommodation selections will have a laundry service or laundry available for you to do your own clothes washing when required.
• P ersonal Toiletries – All accommodation will have towels and basic toiletries such as soap and shampoo.
• P ersonal Items – e.g. wallet, mobile phone, camera, GoPro, chargers
• P ersonal Medicines – Any prescription medicines, asthma inhalers, etc
• Motorcycle Riding Gear – It is best if you bring your riding gear to ensure accurate fit and comfort.

We do have a selection of riding gear for hire at an additional cost however for your comfort we suggest you bring your gear. We do not hire boots. We suggest bringing the following as a minimum:

• Armored Jacket
• Armored Pants
• Warm Touring Gloves
• Lightweight Gloves
• Suitable motorcycle riding boots
• Base layers, thermal pants & top
• Warm removable mid-layers
• Waterproof outer shell

Recommended

• Neck warmer/Buff
• Hydration backpack

We have a selection of new riding gear and accessories available at our online store and in our depot in Christchurch. If you would like to order any items we can have them ready for you at the start of your tour. Please contact us for more information.

PAYMENT POLICY

A non-refundable deposit of USD 2,000 is required to secure your place on the tour and confirm your motorcycle selection from available models.

• Once the booking is placed we will send an invoice for deposit payment. Payment can be made via Direct Credit bank transfer or Credit Card.
• An invoice will be sent to you for the outstanding balance with full payment due 60 days before the tour departure. Payment can be made via Direct Credit bank transfer or Credit Card.
• If Big Bike Tours Part. Ltd. has not received your final payment within 60 days before the start of the tour, the deposit will be forfeited and the booking canceled.
• A Bond of USD 2,000.00 is required per motorcycle hire at the commencement of the tour. (See Insurance terms and conditions below.)
• All prices shown are in United States Dollars ($USD)
• All prices include New Zealand Government Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 15%

CANCELLATION POLICY

If canceled 60 days before the start of the tour we will refund you 100% of the paid tour cost, less the non-refundable deposit.

• If canceled within 60 days of the start date 100% of the tour cost will be forfeited.
• If you are a no-show at the scheduled start time of the tour for any reason, 100% of the tour cost will be forfeited.
• We advise taking out your travel insurance for any unforeseen circumstances that would prevent you from attending the tour.

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

• Full comprehensive motorcycle insurance is included in the tour fee for all motorcycle hires.

SECURITY DEPOSIT (BOND)

• At the commencement of the tour, a bond of USD 2,000.00 is required to be held for each motorcycle rental in the event of any damage or loss to either the motorcycle, any accessories, or third-party property. This sum is fully refundable if the motorcycle and any accessories are returned after the tour without any damage, loss, or expense. Any damage will be deducted from the insurance bond with the balance being refunded. The hirer’s maximum liability is limited to the full insurance bond plus any cost of recovery of the motorcycle. (All damages paid by credit card will incur a 2.9% credit card surcharge.)
• The bond must be taken in the form of a pre-authorization on your credit card at the commencement of the tour and is held for the duration of your hire. Please ensure sufficient funds are available on your Credit Card for the bond pre-authorization hold at the commencement of your tour. Note: Pre-authorization holds can only be charged to a Credit Card. Debit Cards are not valid.
• After the bond hold pre-authorization is canceled it may take up to 3-5 working days for the funds to be available again on your Credit Card depending on your bank.
• No transaction fees apply to Pre-Authorisation credit holds. If damage is deducted from the bond, standard credit card fees will apply to the charged portion.

TOUR PREREQUISITES

• Minimum age 25 years old
• Full motorcycle license valid for riding in New Zealand, or an international driver’s permit.
• If your driver’s license is not printed in English then an international driver’s permit is required.
• Experience – This tour is not suitable for beginner riders.

MOTORCYCLE CHOICE & AVAILABILITY

• Kiwi Motorcycle Rentals provides the motorcycles for the tour.
• There are limited numbers of each make and model motorcycle available for each tour.
• Motorcycles are available on a first-come first served basis and your first-choice motorcycle may not be available for the tour at the time of booking.
• Models available are shown at the time of booking on the website booking system in the motorcycle selection dropdown menu.

RIDER FITNESS, HEALTH & SAFETY

All tour participants enter into a tour contract with Big Bike Tours and in doing so state that they are in suitable physical and mental condition and that they are capable of participating in the tour without risk to themselves or others.

Big Bike Tours participants:

• are responsible for riding at their own pace and level of experience at all times during the tour, and
• should at no time exceed any of the local traffic laws and speed limits or their riding experience level, and
• are prohibited from exceeding laws about the consumption of alcoholic beverages while operating any vehicle/ motorcycle during a tour, or the taking of ANY drugs that may impair judgment while riding.
• Big Bike Tours reserves the right to cancel a participant tour and motorcycle rental agreement at once by giving either verbal or written notice for any infraction of the above, or if we reasonably believe that your driving is negligent, careless, or will likely cause danger to themselves or anyone else.

Big Bike Tours reserves the right to accept or deny anybody from participating in any Big Bike Tours tour. Big Bike Tours does not and will not discriminate against any sex, race, or religion.

Big Bike Tours owners, operators, or tour guides may for any reason deny a participant(s) continuance of the tour if they feel that the participant(s) is a danger or disruption to himself or herself, the tour group, or the general public. Any participant(s) denied continuance of the tour is responsible for his or her accommodation, meals, airport shuttle services, or any other costs incurred as a result of their denial. No refunds will be issued to any participant(s) who are denied continuance of a Big Bike Tours tour.

New Zealand has various rules and mandates in place in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. These rules and mandates change with the current COVID response level in New Zealand. The official response rules can be found on the NZ Government Covid website   https://covid19.govt.nz/

TOUR CANCELLATIONS

Big Bike Tours reserves the right to cancel any scheduled tour at any time due to lack of participation, severe weather, natural disaster, world unrest, pandemic, or any other given reason whatsoever.

If any tour is canceled, Big Bike Tours will:

• immediately notify tour participants of any such occurrence, and
• offer the possibility of rescheduling another tour on another date, or will refund the tour cost less any deposits paid to cover pre-booked accommodation, activities admin fees, etc. which will constitute a full settlement. All deposits required at the time of booking are non-refundable,
• not be liable for any additional cost or losses incurred by the participant due to a cancellation of any tour.

This may include, but not be limited to:

• personal airline tickets,
• other accommodation reservations,
• any other pre-planned trips/travel and/or associated expenses.

EX TRA FEES & CHARGES

• All motorcycle fuel for the duration of the hire is at the tour participants’ expense.
• At the end of the tour, the motorcycle must be returned with a full tank of fuel. Failure to return the motorcycle with a full tank of fuel after hire will incur an extra charge for the refilling of the motorcycle fuel tank plus a $25.00 administration fee.
• Traffic and/or parking violation fines that come in after the hire has ended will also be charged to your nominated card.

P RIVACY POLICY

Big Bike Tours values our customers and respects their privacy. We recognize the trust you place in us through your dealings with us. We take all reasonable steps to maintain that trust. Under the law, your privacy rights are also protected. Privacy laws place requirements on us to treat certain information collected as confidential, to store information securely, and to allow you access to check and correct your information. We comply with the Privacy Act 2020.

RENTAL AGREEMENT

All participants will be required to read and sign a Vehicle Rental Agreement to participate in the tour. This will be given to tour participants at tour check-in for signing. You can download a copy of the Vehicle Rental Agreement at https://www.kiwimotorcyclerentals.com/rental-agreement

5 TIPS FOR MOTORCYCLE TOURING IN NEW ZEALAND

• Allow time to get over jetlag, you may have just crossed 10 time zones in just over 24 hours. Not many of us get the chance to go to New Zealand more than once in our lives, so don’t rush it.
• Stopover en route, how many times in your life do you get to visit Asia? Depending on who you fly with, why not use this opportunity to visit places like Singapore, Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Sydney, Los Angeles, Hawaii, or the Cook Islands? Ask your flight agent.
• Speed cameras, the myths are true! They are hidden in bizarre places. And they are NOT painted in bright garish colors, so you can spot them a mile off. You have been warned.
• ‘Metal’ roads are gravel, not tarmac. Many side roads in New Zealand will show a sign stating metal road. We do not encourage riding on metal or un-made roads – in New Zealand, you can get up close to unsurpassed scenery of imaginable beauty without leaving the tarmac.
• The sun is deceptively strong, so wear plenty of sun cream to prevent yourself from getting burnt, especially your face.

ROAD CONDITIONS

The famous New Zealand motorcycle touring roads make for terrific riding, in some districts, it looks like the designer who created the roads has a phobia of straight lines! Due to a small population, the roads are empty and the surfaces on the routes we choose are fantastic. We avoid the main truck routes and stick to the bendy inland highways, we take you to the best biking roads this country can offer, and some that many other companies don’t know or have time for.

ROAD RIDING Motorcycle riding in New Zealand is generally relaxed, so you can take in the scenery and see this wonderful country at a comfortable pace, it’s certainly the most important thing to us in the world that everyone enjoys the ride. This is why we use the best bikes, maintain them to exacting standards, and equip them with the best touring tires to provide the best grip possible, we never cut costs and are proud of our high-quality service. Some routes are challenging, so you will need some degree of experience with riding the size of the motorcycle you have chosen for your trip.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

New Zealand’s North Island is subtropical and the South Island is temperate, to get the most enjoyment out of the weather December through to March is the best time to visit. June, July, and August are the coldest months, and the mountainous areas often close due to snow. During our summer our temperature ranges between 20 – 40 Celsius Degree (68F – 104F) During winter it can be anything between 0 – 20 Celsius Degree (32F – 68F) The summer sun can be fierce so sunscreen is highly recommended, also wear layers and be prepared to ride in both hot and colder weather.

BASIC ROAD RULES It is important to view the road rules before you ride, below are some brief tips, we’ll always give you a safety briefing before you depart, but for the official New Zealand road code visit the NZ Transport Agency website.

• Speed Limits: 100 km/h max on the open road and 50 km/h in built-up areas, all speed signs are well signposted.
• Giving Way: In general, give way to the right. When at a STOP sign you must stop completely and give way to all traffic until it is clear to proceed.
• Traffic not turning at cross junctions (going straight) have the right of way over turning traffic.
• Signs at single-lane bridges advise who has the right of way, to slow down, and be prepared to stop.
• Corner Speed:  There are speed recommendation signs on most bends in New Zealand and can be used as a rough guide to judge your speed into corners.
• Driving Licence: You must hold a full motorcycle license or be able to legally ride the requested size motorcycle in your country of residence, proof will be required in the form of your physical driver’s license. Any overseas licenses will need to be translated before arriving (check with your travel agent).
• Safety: When riding in New Zealand you are required to wear a helmet by law, we can provide all your motorcycle gear, but for comfort purposes, you can bring your own. Tinted visors are okay during the daytime but bring your clear with you.
• Alcohol:  Riding/Driving in New Zealand while intoxicated is a very serious offense and random breath testing happens very often all over the country, even in rural areas. The legal limit is 80 milligrams of alcohol for every 100mls of blood, in other words, you could go over the limit with two pints of normal-strength beer or a large glass of wine. If you have a heavy night drinking you may still be over the limit first thing in the morning so delay your riding till later, if you are caught drinking you automatically lose your license, and the bike, and will incur a large fine or be imprisoned until your court hearing. i.e. Vacation Over.
• Overtaking: You may not cross a solid yellow line to overtake, they are there to warn of hidden dangers so abide by this rigidly. Broken white lines are fine and you should stay within the speed limit. You are not allowed to cross the center line if you are not overtaking and must keep left when driving normally.
• Parking: Consider your parking carefully, for your convenience remember to park the back wheel down to the curb, this will make it easier to ride away, it is also illegal to park on the opposite side of the road facing traffic.
• Beware of Kea Parrots.  If you are near the mountains keep an eye out for Kea parrots as they will happily peck a hole in your seat within seconds (we’re not joking), and their sharp talons will instantly damage your seat if they land on it. We provide kea parrot insurance options to reduce damage costs.
• New Zealand is generally a very safe place, but make sure your motorbike is tucked away at night or even kept under cover if at all possible. Lastly, be aware of Kiwi drivers generally, they are used to driving in a quiet country on very empty roads and many do not have the same experience with motorcycles as in other busier countries.
• Roadworks: Roadworks are seldom motorcycle-friendly in NZ. Whilst some are easy to navigate, others can be a little daunting. Slow and steady.

Big Bike Tours reserves the right to alter or amend any details, pricing, routes, and inclusions which may be amended at any time and without notice.

Tour Highlights: Christchurch, the ‘Garden City’; Lake Tekapo; Aoraki Mount Cook; Pacific Ocean; Otago Peninsula; Catlins Coastline; Classic Motorcycle Mecca; Burt Munro’s legendary ‘World’s Fastest Indian’; Fiordland National Park; Magical Milford Sound; Devil’s Staircase; Lake Wakatipu; The Remarkables; Queenstown, the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’; Mount Aspiring National Park; Haast Pass; Tasman Sea; Franz Josef Glacier; Tree Top Walk & Café; Hokitika; Punakaiki Rocks; Buller River; Reefton; Southern Alps; Lewis Pass; Hanmer Springs; Seaward Kaikoura Ranges; Kaikoura; whale-watching; Marlborough wine region; Marlborough Sounds; Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city; Te Papa; Rimutaka hills; Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre; Tongariro National Park; Forgotten World Highway ; a tour of the Hobbiton set in “Middle Earth”; Rotorua; Mitai Village; Coromandel Peninsula; Hot Water Beach; Whitianga; Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’

Day 2. Christchurch – Lake Tekapo (270 km)

Day 3. Lake Tekapo – Dunedin (254 km)

Day 4. Dunedin – Invercargill (244 km)

Day 5. Invercargill – Fiordland National Park (191 km)

Day 6. Magical Milford Sound (240 km)

Day 7. Te Anau – Queenstown (213 km).

Day 8. Queenstown – Franz Josef Glacier Village (351 km)

Day 9. Franz Josef Glacier Village – Westport (273 km)

Day 10. Westport – Hammer Springs Village (216 km)

Day 11. Hammer Springs Village – Kaikoura – Picton (337 km)

Day 12. Rest Day: Picton Ferry & Wellington City

Day 13. Wellington – Stratford (384 km)

Day 14. Stratford – Taupo (via the Forgotten World Highway) (292 km)

Day 15. Taupo – Gisborn (359 km)

Day 16. Gisborn – Rotorua (274 km)

Day 17. Rest Day in Rotorua

Day 18. Rotorua – Thames (350 km)

Day 19. Thames – Phaihia (339 km)

Day 20. Phaihia – Ahipara (367 km)

Day 21. Phaihia – Auckland (345 km)

2024 Tour Starts | 04. March – 23. March | | 25. March – 14. April | –> Sold Out!

2025 Tour Starts | 03. March – 22. March | | 24. March – 13. April | 

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KTM motorcycle rider on an adventure motorcycle tour in New Zealand

NZ's Leading Adventure Moto Tour Company

At Ultimate Adventure Moto NZ we uniquely specialise in fully guided 'off the beaten track' adventure motorcycle tours that will excite your senses and blow your mind! 

From years of combined adventure riding experience in NZ we have developed a selection of amazing and unique tours, from 1 day to 3 weeks, we have something for almost everyone!

We provide everything you need for an epic motorcycle adventure including top quality KTM Adventure motorcycles, experienced and knowledgeable guides, GPS units on every bike with routes pre-loaded, quality accommodation, and riding gear hire if you need it.

Check out our tours, or read on to find out more about us. You've come to the right place if you're after adrenaline-filled moto adventures!

Multiple Options

View our Tours Page for our different tour offerings, pricing, and full details.

From two days to three weeks, we have many tour options.

Please click below for more details.

Motorcycle tours in New Zealand

Guided motorcycle tours in New Zealand

Guided motorbike tours off road in New Zealand

Back country motorcycle and off road motorbike tours nz

South and North Island motorcycle motorbike tours

Ride The Dream!

Ultimate Adventure Moto NZ is the leading adventure motorcycle tour operator in New Zealand

Picture yourself on an awesome KTM adventure bike ripping thru New Zealand's back-country wilderness with epic scenery and amazing vistas, big mountains, and awesome lakes!

How would you like to do it with other like-minded adventure enthusiasts, without all the hassle of figuring out where to go, where to stay, what to take, and how to do it? 

No other tour operator in NZ provides an epic back-country riding experience like ours! Our tours and routes are so good we are contracted by leading motorcycle brands and dealerships in New Zealand to provide adventure rallyes and tours for their customers.

Hassle Free - The Ultimate Guarantee!

You wont have to worry about a thing. Our guides are highly experienced and will assist with getting the group through any technical terrain, sort out all bike issues such as punctured tyres or mechanical problems, provide first aid assistance or arrange professional medical help in the event of any accident or emergencies, and of course provide the experience of a lifetime with plenty of fun and laughter along the way! 

We love meeting new people and showing off New Zealand's hidden treasures from the seat of an adventure motorcycle. Whether you’re with us for a day or weeks, you are bound to have an "Ultimate" adventure motorcycling experience that you will remember for years to come.

Join one of our epic tours now to fulfill your New Zealand adventure riding dream without the hassle, stress and cost of figuring it all out yourself!

How much is it worth to ride amazing off-road capable KTM adventure machines with experienced and knowledgeable guides on epic pre-ridden and proven routes? Staying in quality accommodation with breakfast included? What about the cost of adding technical riding support?, mechanical assistance?, and medical help in emergencies so you can ride with the knowledge that everything will be taken care of in any situation? This is an amazing amount of added value. If you could even find similarly capable bikes for hire in NZ and tried to organise a group ride like these, then added up the cost of providing this all yourself it would far exceed the amazing value of our tour offerings.

Pay only a deposit now to secure your place.

Pricing varies for each tour depending on tour duration and route. Pricing can be found on the individual tour details page. To secure a place on a tour is as simple as paying a deposit, then we will email you with a full tour information document and details for final payment.

Don't leave it to chance, select your tour date now and secure your place before they disappear !

Our tours are exclusive and are limited to a maximum of 10 riders per tour. There are also limited numbers of each KTM motorcycle model available on each tour. The places and bike models are allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Once the tour spots are sold out there are no more until next years tour calendar is released!

The Ultimate Guarantee!

We guarantee our customers will experience epic riding, amazing scenery and fantastic customer service on some of the best scenic highway, gravel roads and back-country routes on offer anywhere. If you aren't 100% satisfied we will refund your deposit, or provide you another tour absolutely free!**

Check out the tours page now to find the tour and date that best suits you.

**subject to terms & conditions

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Ultimate Adventure Moto NZ Limited

&  Kiwi Motorcycle Rentals

52o Cranford Street, Redwood, Christchurch

[email protected]

+64 21 166 2025

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Superior Rentals

Wide range of latest model machines

Motorcycle rental.

Ride New Zealand .... live the dream!

Fully guided tours.

No hassle, no worries!

Self-guide tours.

Friendly family business

South island specialists, south pacific motorcycle rentals & tours - motorbike rental new zealand, superior motorcycle rental | self-guided tours | fully-guided tours | club/group tours, new zealand's premier motorcycle rental & tour specialists.

• Motorcycle Rental  - Hire one of our late-model low mileage touring motorcycles from our family business based in Christchurch, South Island. Choose from Triumph, BMW, Suzuki or Royal Enfield;
• Self-guide Tours - Receive an itinerary with Google Route Link and recommended accommodation list - completely free of charge;
• Fully-guided Motorcycle Tours - Join our legendary exclusive small group 12 day Southern Alps Spectacular fully-guided motorcycle tour in January 2025 - taking bookings NOW;

    "New Zealand's a world beyond belief - with South Pacific Motorcycle Tours it's an adventure beyond imagination !"

"Our fleet of stunning road-touring motorcycles is based in Christchurch, South Island, and in our opinion the best place in the world for starting your ride. Not too far away empty ribbon roads stretch for mile upon mile around our glorious Southern Alps, spralling for your pleasure from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. And in between you'll discover pristine lakes, fjiords, ancient rainforests, waterfalls, mountain ranges and tranquil sheep-filled plains. There's no need to ride un-sealed roads to get up close to New Zealand's idyllic and totally unspoilt natural scenery. Choose  motorbike rental only and we'll show you the way with complimentary route maps and recommended activities and accommodation. Choose our fully guided motorcycle tour and you're in safe hands with our experienced guides.

Check out our new book ! 

• Our Motorbikes

What South Pacific Motorcycle Tours Customers say:

Eric purington, new mexico, usa, cindy & duncan bennett, manly, australia.

Utterly Fantastic! The tour was so well organized, from the moment of inquiry until the flight out of Christchurch. The whole crew was gracious, accommodating, resourceful, with over the top customer service. We experienced New Zealand from the tops of 2 BMW 800's. It was phenomenal, to say the least. Even with 6 out of 12 days with rain, it didn't matter, we were in NZ! The self guided GPS tour was amazingly accurate and the excursions, plus places to stop and eat, well, there wasn't a bad one in the bunch. Highly recommended to all who ride.

Dave and Maggie

David gross, hawaii, usa.

• Get a quote / book online

12 Day Southern Alps Spectacular Fully Guided Tour 2025

• Limited availability!
• View Tour Details & Pricing
• View All Tour Packages
• View Special Offers

Our Range of New Zealand Motorcycle Tours

At south pacific motorcycle tours, we have a tour perfectly suited to you. whether it's fully guided, self-guided or a motorbike rental - we have plenty of great options available....

Self-Guide Itineraries

• View the available tours

• View rental information

• View our Special Offers!
• Our range of Motobikes
• Custom tours are available!
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• Frequently Asked Questions
• Our New Zealand locations
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Check Out Our Motorcycle Tours

If you want to 'go it alone' without a motorbike tour guide but would love the benefits of having your accommodation pre-booked and a route planned for you, then a self-guided tour is perfect for you. Your route is pre-programmed into a BMW Navigator 6 or XT2 GPS on a day-by-day basis on the best motorcycle roads. You can tour for as many days as you want.

Ride on one of our latest model motorcycles and let our professional guides take you on a motorcycle tour of New Zealand that you will never forget. With a guide riding a motorcycle and a support vehicle for your luggage ride unencumbered

Whatever your preferences, we have a modern fleet of motorcycles to suit your taste and riding ability. Low mileage, latest models in great condition for touring.

We have been arranging group tours for BMW Motorrad Partners and Clubs from all over the world since 2008. Let us provide you with the motorcycle tour you've always dreamed about.

Whatever your passion is - adventure sports, photography, ecotourism, history, fly-fishing or vintage aircraft, we can customise a unique New Zealand motorcycle tour route taking in as much, or as little, of New Zealand as you want. We can arrange any type of tour for individuals or groups, from the most basic accommodation to the most luxurious, and we don't charge any extra for arranging your dream trip, it's all part of the award winning Paradise customer service!

Everywhere you ride there are unforgettable vistas, legendary switchbacks, fairy tale castles, high open meadows and famous alpine passes.

My fiance and I were on the South Island tour in March of this year. The quick summary: an awesome bucket-list trip and Paradise is a fantastic organization that has the resources / experience to make sure it's an awesome experience. We were fortunate to be led by Mike & Jo ... and had a great group of diverse riders from the US, UK and Australia. I cannot possibly explain in writing the stunning scenery that you are constantly surrounded by (and riding through) everywhere on the South Island. Mike and Jo were great tour leaders and helped to build a fun social environment with all of us strangers on the trip. Really enjoyed their company and we built up a little family during this 11 day tour. We had fantastic weather on our trip and the range of experiences is unmatched.

Warren B., New Zealand

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Across The Ditch Motorcycle Tours

Explore new zealand on a harley davidson motorcycle, across the ditch motorcycle tours.

Across the Ditch Motorcycle Tours is a guided motorcycle business owned and operated by a Kiwi.  

Let me show you the wonders of New Zealand, anywhere from Cape Reinga in the northern regions of the North Island to Bluff which is the most southern area of the South Island,  taking you on some of the less familiar roads …  the real NZ!

Across the Ditch Motorcycle Tours specialises in guided tours of groups around New Zealand, experiencing some of the most scenic and exhilarating riding roads and majestic countryside that New Zealand has to offer.  From beaches along our stunning coastline to snow-capped mountains, lakes and fiords, our tours can take you to all corners of New Zealand.  

As a born and bred Kiwi, I am very enthusiastic about combining two of my passions, firstly in showcasing my “homeland” to the world and secondly, what better way to see and experience it, than on a motorcycle.  Four wheels move the body, but two wheels move the soul.

Motorcycle hire is arranged for you on late model Harley Davidson motorcycles, accommodation booked and route planned, so all you are left to do is ride and enjoy, and when appropriate tours can be customised and personalised to accommodate any items which may be on your “wish list” of discoveries.

Upcoming MOTORCYCLE TOURS of new zealand

North Island Motorcycle Tours

North Island of New Zealand

South Island Motorcycle Tours

South Island of New Zealand

Explore The nz countryside

Let me guide you on a Harley Davidson adventure, around some of the most interesting scenic roads and countryside that New Zealand has to offer.

New Zealand has spectacular scenery at any time of the year, changing by the season.  

The roads travelled are not all the mainstream tourist routes, allowing you the opportunity to see more of  this beautiful country, and you will be recounting your trip and this experience for years to come with your friends and family. 

Travelling by late model Harley Davidson motorcycles also allows you to share the fresh air of the countryside of NZ.  

Guided tours allow you to look around without the concern of map reading and road analysis.

Upcoming Tours & Destinations

19 January 2024

Two week tour of the North Island

6 February 2024

Two week tour of the South Island.  This tour takes in the Burt Munro Challenge in Invercargill, which is one of the largest events in New Zealand’s motorcycle calendar.

Tap the link below to take you to our tour page.

• New Zealand
• Western USA
• Western Canada
• Motorcycle Tours

New Zealand Motorcycle Tours

Kiwi Trails: 13-days on the North Island of NZ

Self Guided Motorcycle Tour

• Date Nov 01 - Apr 30 (2024 )
• Duration 13 Days
• Distance 2095 Miles / 3350 km
• Discount Available!

Weka Trails: 13-days on the South Island of NZ

• Date Nov 01 - Mar 29 (2024 )
• Distance 1890 Miles / 3170 km

18-day South Island Motorcycle Tour

Fully Guided Motorcycle Tour

• Date Jan 15 - Feb 01 (2025 )
• Duration 18 Days
• Distance 2605 Miles / 4205 km

18-day North Island Motorycle Tour

• Date Feb 05 - Feb 22 (2025 )
• Distance 2615 Miles / 4210 km

Island Hopper Trails: 27-day 2-Island Tour of NZ (North Island Based)

• Duration 27 Days
• Distance 4415 Miles / 6965 km

Island Hopper Trails: 27-day 2-Island Tour of NZ (South Island Based)

• Distance 3970 Miles / 6410 km

Sturgis Motorcycle Tours

Guided harley tours usa.

Time to tick the trip of a lifetime off your bucket list. As New Zealand’s leading motorcycle tour operator, we have crafted journeys that include all the best mountains, lakes, rivers and beaches, tight curvy roads, wide-open plains and friendly locals.

These South Pacific trips take motorcycle riding to a whole other level. Whether its a weekend motorbike tour or staying 12 day guided tour, our highly recommended trips will blow your mind.

DESTINATIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

Kiwi crusade - tour itinerary.

Stunning scenery awaits on every riding day, from the Southern Alps to Milford Sound. You’ll also get to ride the world famous routes: Arthurs Pass, Haast Pass and Lewis Pass.

The world’s southernmost motorcycle event includes drag racing, street races, hill climbs and beach racing. You can also see Burt Munro’s motorcycles and the famous John Britten motorcycle.

New Orleans

The Franz Josef Glacier is 7000 years old and 12 kilometres long. Our South Island tours include Quad Bikes ride so you can experience the glacier up close on a 4-wheeler.

The Coromandel peninsula has some of the best ocean-side riding in the world. Check out our 3-day Auckland Motorcycle Tour if you want to experience NZ’s summer in full force.

Tail of The Dragon

Ride into yesterday at Classic Motorcycle Mecca. Get a full 360-degree view of 300 motorbikes at this world-class Invercargill motorcycle museum.

Our Guided USA Tours

Route 66 Reborn

Ride Route 66, the planet's most famous road. A must do for every serious rider. From east to west it’s historical, beautiful, demanding and inspiring at every mile.

Sturgis Stampede

No other tour operator includes Asheville, Nashville and the Blue Ridge Parkway in one epic journey to motorcycle mecca.

New Orleans, Nashville Memphis, & Daytona (MNND)

It’s hard to imagine how much fun this tour is, experiencing the ‘real America’ is a once in a lifetime adventure.

Easy Rider Tour

We take this tour with the world’s number one Easy Rider historian, collector and advocate, taking you to all the locations and much more.

Our Self-Guided USA Tours

Route 66 Reborn Self-Guided

Sturgis Stampede Self-Guided

Easy Rider Self-Guided

What you’ve said about us.

Independent Service Rating – Based on 80 verified reviews

Father and son Mark and Ben Van Leeuwarden are born and bred kiwis. They bring their own flare to each tour, and provide carefully crafted itineraries, ‘real kiwi’ experiences and occasionally some good humor. 

Mark comes from a private investigation background while Ben used to work in advertising around the world. The pair have hosted many New Zealand group tours, music events, and have been a part of New Zealand’s supermoto racing community for many years. 

Their existing relationships give you special access to the New Zealand many tourists don’t get to see. 

Mark Van Leeuwarden

Ben Van Leeuwarden

John Devonshire

Denise “Diesel” Graham

Our motorcycles.

We have a wide-variety of motorbikes for you to ride in New Zealand. From Harley Davidson Electra Glides to custom choppers, take your pick.

Harley Davidson Electra Glides

Harley Davidson Road Kings

Modified Honda Fury’s

The happiness guarantee.

Planet Chopper’s award winning tours are a mixture of top-notch touring, NZ history, unbeatable cuisine, family-run care and the best tour itinerary from the east to west coast.

Ride in New Zealand on our self guided tours, a blend of flexibility and freedom: we provide motorbike rental, GPS routes and pre-booked 4 star hotels — all you need to do is twist the throttle.

New Zealand has some of the best motorcycle roads in the world. We are here to connect the dots with tours and rentals, lend a hand and maximize your riding days.

Planet Chopper New Zealand motorcycle tours are life-changing experiences. As your tour guide we are dedicated to providing top-notch service and stunning scenery. Many of our participants book another motorcycle vacation with us to discover every corner of the country.

How it Works

Step 1: select and book your tour.

All of our tours can be booked instantly online. Secure your spot by paying a 20% deposit. If you like, you can pay the remainder of your balance via installments. The balance is due 45 days prior to departure.

STEP 2: WE FILL YOU IN ON EVERY DETAIL

We will send you a handbook on what to bring, what to expect and travel information.

STEP 3: TIME TO RIDE!

We greet you, go over a quick briefing and hit the road! All hotels, restaurants, gas stops, experiences, routes and the best places to stop for scenic views are waiting for us. It’s that easy. If you have any questions please email Ben here. Mail to: [email protected]

Committed to Excellence

Average Rating 5/5

Average Rating 4.6/5

Looking for deals

A great range of purpose built motorbikes to get you exploring our scenic highways and majestic countryside.

Starting off at our Home Depot in Christchurch.

Experience farm track adventure riding with its hilly terrain and low water crossings and spectacular canterbury views.

Our coastal back country routes offer up great some fun riding and amazing sea views.

A mountain lake, tucked away in the back of canterbury. The perfect stop for lunch.

Guided motorcycle adventure tour South Island, New Zealand with Chch based rental company Ridebikenz.

1 Day Guided Adventure Motorcycle Tour

1 Eyre Place , Kaiapoi , New Zealand .

Our 1 Day Tours offer a fun filled motorcycle adventure ride through Canterbury's beautiful back country. Riding asphalt highways, back country shingle, and rugged farm track through some of our favourite coastal and mountain areas.

Pricing and Conditions

$450.00 includes guided tour, motorcycle, clothing, helmet and insurance. A refundable bond of $1000.00 is required before departure.

All tours depart and return to our depot in Kaiapoi, Christchurch, Departing at 9am and returning at 4,30pm. We can provide a pickup and drop-off service to our depot. A relevant motorcycle license is required for the type of motorcycle you are hiring. We provide helmet pants jackets and gloves for your tour. (You will need closed in footwear) A refundable bond of $1000.00 is required before tour commences. Tours tailored to suit riding abilities. Minimum 6 months riding experience required.

Cancellations received more than 48hours out from date of hire will be refunded in full. Cancellations received less than 48hours out from date of hire will forfeit the full cost of tour. Cancellations should be made in writing to [email protected]

Our friendly, professional local guides will lead the way, setting a pace that matches your riding skills, ensuring you’re comfortable and having a blast. Whether you’re cruising on smooth tarmac, navigating shingle roads, or exploring farm tracks, there’s never a dull moment. And the best part? We’ve got you covered. From providing top-notch motorcycles to protective clothing, helmets, and insurance - all you need to do is show up and let the good times roll. Whether you’re a beginner just getting the hang of things or an experienced rider looking for a new challenge, we have routes and guidance tailored just for you. So come on, let’s hit the road and make some unforgettable memories.

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