Central Otago is forging a reputation as one of the world's best gravel biking destinations.
Over the past 25-years, Central Otago has invested in a bike-friendly infrastructure and today has a vast network of purpose-built, off-road cycle trails which are ideal for gravel biking. Coupled with hundreds of kilometres of quiet gravel roads which crisscross the Otago landscape, there are countless opportunities for gravel biking, from day trips to overnight 'credit card' rides or multi-day bikepacking adventures.
The supporting infrastructure for Central Otago's Great Rides means that gravel biking routes are well serviced by the region’s trail towns. Distances between trail towns are never too far meaning that riders are usually close to a good coffee and resupply points.
The weather helps too. Central Otago's climate is well-suited to year-round cycling. Warm summers and crisp, dry winters mean that riders can enjoy gravel biking at any time of the year. The region's long daylight hours in summer are perfect for extended rides.
Dozens of gravel routes are well documented, and rides are easily accessible from hubs across the region such as Alexandra, Cromwell, Clyde, Roxburgh, Ranfurly and Naseby. These hubs have evolved to service the Great Rides with bike shops, shuttles and bike transport, hospitality and bike-friendly accommodation offering an established infrastructure which can be easily utlilised by gravel bikers.
Gravel Biking in Central Otago - Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the best time to go gravel biking in Central Otago?
You can ride in Central Otago year-round, and as one of the driest regions in New Zealand it's ideal for cycling.
Summers (December – February) are hot and dry, so sun protection and hydration is essential. Autumn (March – May) is the most popular season for bike riding with warm, dry days and the beautiful autumnal colours. Winter riding (June – August) can be rewarding and great for photography with snow on the hills. Obviously, warm layers are essential in the winter months, and riding can be limited due to shorter days due and daylight hours.
Despite Central Otago's favourable climate, riders should be prepared for changeable weather at any time of year (think NZ’s classic “four seasons in one day”) and you should always check the weather forecast before and during a multi-day trip and be prepared to change your plans.
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Do I need a specific gravel bike to ride in Central Otago?
No. A gravel bike is great, but it’s not the only option. Any route suited to a gravel bike will generally be OK for a capable hardtail mountain bike or touring-style bike, depending on the surface, distance and conditions. Wider, knobbly tyres, good brakes and comfortable gearing will make the ride safer and more enjoyable on trails and gravel surfaces. Gravel bikes tend to be faster than mountain bikes, so plan your rides and distances accordingly.Find out more information about gravel biking on Trail Hub, here.
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Where can I hire a bike?
Bike hire - including E-Bikes - is widely available across Central Otago's network of Great Rides, with Cromwell, Clyde and Alexandra all key hubs with bike shops, bike hire and trail transport. Bike hire generally includes a helmet, basic toolkit and panniers. Bike hire companies can also provide logistics support with transport and accommodation.
Specific gravel bikes are not widely available for hire yet, but as their popularity is increasing, a small number of bike tour operators have gravel bikes available or are running specific gravel bike tours.
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Is gravel biking in Central Otago suitable for beginners?
Yes, if you choose the right ride. Gravel biking can range from relaxed, scenic day rides to remote, hilly backcountry missions. For beginners its recommended to start with shorter, easier routes and build up from there. The Otago Central Rail Trail (grade 1) or the Clutha Gold Trail (grade 1-2) are ideal for your first gravel bike ride.Check out these 5 bikepacking itineraries for beginners on Trail Hub which are also a good introduction to gravel biking. Trail Hub also has ride guides and itineraries to help match gravel biking and cycling routes to your confidence, fitness and sense of adventure.
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Are multi-day gravel rides or bikepacking tours available in Central Otago?
Yes. Central Otago is well suited to everything from “credit card ride” overnighters to longer bikepacking adventures, with experienced local bike tour companies available to help with bike hire, transport logistics and accommodation. The Great Rides are tailormade for multi-day bikepacking trips.
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Where can I find out more about gravel biking routes in Central Otago?
A good place to place to start is Trail Hub, where you’ll find gravel biking itineraries, ride guides and stories from across the wider Otago region. Trail Hub is a helpful resource to help you research rides that match your time, fitness, bike setup and appetite for adventure. Alternatively talk to one of the local bike shops or bike tour companies for friendly advice and recommendations.
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Can I combine gravel biking with a tour of Central Otago’s wineries?
Yes - that’s a big part of the appeal. Gravel biking in Central Otago can link together both the region's dramatic scenery but also great places to eat and drink, including Central Otago's award-winning vineyards and wineries, as well as welcoming country pubs, great cafes and restaurants.Check out these itineraries for exploring the vines by bike here:
Come on, let's ride (lycra optional)
Bike Hire, Tours & Transport
Tracks & Trails
There is a choice of companies to hire from and between them they cover all possible options including children’s bikes and e-bikes.
Plan your ride
Tracks & Trails
A little planning will go a long way to ensuring you have an enjoyable and comfortable trip. Oh, and maybe a gel-seat.
Stories from the Otago Trails
Tracks & Trails
At Trail Hub you’ll find stories, news, itineraries and tips to help you discover trails and towns from Queenstown to Dunedin and throughout Central Otago and Clutha.
Maps & Guides
Tracks & Trails
Cycle trail maps have key distances, elevations and trail highlights. Don't forget to grab a wine map too.
Getting here
Tracks & Trails
Getting to Central Otago is easy with flights into Queenstown and Dunedin. You can then rent a vehicle, catch a bus, or book a tour and be guided through the area.
Cycle Trail Accommodation
Tracks & Trails
It's not just traditional accommodation, all these historic banks, halls and stables have been repurposed, redesigned, and refurbished to suit the needs of today — yep, they even have wifi.
Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
Tracks & Trails
Explore all 23 of New Zealand's Great Rides and see the best of New Zealand by bike! Check out all the other trails here.
Map of Otago's Great Ride Cycle Trail Network
Otago's network of Great Rides is ideal for gravel biking and bikepacking.
More Tracks & Trails
Lake Dunstan Trail
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Roxburgh Gorge Trail
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Clutha Gold Trail
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Mountain Bike Trails
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Walking Trails
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Otago Central Rail Trail
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Wine Trail
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Central Otago Arts Trail
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Heritage Trails
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