New Zealand Motorcycle Adventure Tour - 25 days

Day 1 (departure day 25.11)

The evening before our departure, we'll visit Auckland's Sky Tower and have a delicious welcome dinner at Orbit 360° Dining. This restaurant boasts the best view of Auckland, and we're going to make the most of it!

Then, the very next day, after our breakfast together in our hotel, the journey starts after a short briefing. We'll pick up our motorcycles at our starting point in Auckland and get them ready to go. At the starting point, we'll set the clocks at 9:00 a.m.

And with that, we're off on our adventure!

We'll be leaving the vibrant city of Auckland and heading north to the scenic east coast. Our first stop will be the breathtaking Whangarei Falls on the Hatea River, followed by the majestic Haruru Falls on the Waitangi River. Our first major stop will be at Whangarei Falls.

Our primary destination is Paihia, located in the beautiful Bay of Islands. This area in the north-east of the North Island is absolutely stunning! This is the perfect spot to soak in the enchanting atmosphere of New Zealand.

On this day, we will cover approximately 313 km.

Day 2

A new day of adventure awaits us! After a delicious breakfast, we're about to embark on an exhilarating new adventure on two wheels. Today, we're heading north, specifically to the end of the North Island, past the stunning Paewhenua Island to the legendary "Cape Reinga."

As we venture further north, we'll witness the majestic convergence of the Tasman Sea to the west and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean to the north and east. For the Māori, Te Tai o Rehua from the west, embodying the masculine principle, and Te Moana Nui a Kiwa from the east, embodying the feminine principle, meet at Cape Reinga, symbolizing the origin of life.

But that's just a side note.

Next, we head to the west coast, where we'll arrive in Ahipara, nestled in the beautiful Ahipara Bay. Ahipara is a laid-back village south of Ninety Mile Beach. It's famous for its massive white dunes and offers tons of fun sporting activities. And the idea of riding the Ninety Mile Beach on a motorcycle is an absolute blast. Whether we will ride the Ninety Mile Beach depends on the decision within the group, because this ride along the beach involves certain risks.

We'll spend the night in Ahipara, soaking in the breathtaking views of the bay.

Today's stage is approximately 272 km.

Day 3

Get ready for another thrilling ride today, as we embark on a journey of 396 km!

The tour takes us back south again, crossing nature parks, passing lakes, and enjoying the beautiful landscape. The journey is the destination, and we're in for a treat! We'll be cruising past the stunning Whangaparāoa Bay on our way to Auckland.

In the late afternoon, we'll cross Auckland again and spend the night far southeast of Auckland, in Thames (Māori: Pārāwai), a charming town at the southwestern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Day 4

A long and perhaps tough day lies ahead of us. We have a distance of 486 km to cover. It's going to be an adventure! But at the end of the day, we'll have the satisfaction of knowing we did it! Our adventure begins with a northward journey, then takes a thrilling eastward detour around the Coromandel Peninsula, leading us to an awe-inspiring vantage point on the far east of the peninsula.

At 8:00 a.m., we're off again, ready to tackle the next leg of this incredible adventure. Next, we'll visit the breathtaking Cathedral Cove Viewing Deck, where we'll be treated to an awe-inspiring view of the peninsula and the vast Pacific Ocean.

Next, we'll head to Tauranga, a well-known seaside resort, and then on to Rotorua, situated on the lake of the same name, Lake Rotorua.

The journey was absolutely worth it, because the next day we will take our first rest break and spend the day doing other activities than just riding our motorcycles.

Our next stop is Rotorua, where we'll spend the next two nights at the Rotorua Waterfront Park.

This day, like all the others, is sure to be a memorable one.

Day 5

As promised, today is a rest day...., more or less!

We're going to relax all day!

Or, if you're up for it, why not join us for an adventure at the Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa? This incredible experience awaits you not far from Rotorua. We'll take a tour of the facilities there and get down and dirty (without a motorcycle) and roll around.

Come with us and experience a land where myths and legends come to life, where the earth boils, mud heals, and steam disappears into the clouds. Come with us to experience the vibrant Māori culture that thrives here.

As you walk through native bush and clouds of geothermal steam, you'll discover why this land has inspired myths and legends. Once used by Māori warriors to heal their battle-scarred bodies, visitors today use the nutrient-rich water and mud to soothe inflammation, arthritis, and rejuvenate the skin.

This blend of impressive power and natural healing properties is a cultural legend, with a history spanning over 800 years.

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Māori village of Tū Te Rā, where you'll have the unique opportunity to listen to the ancient Māori storytellers.

And, of course, no experience would be complete without a delicious, traditional Māori dinner prepared just for us.

Day 6

Everything comes to an end, even relaxing!

We're on an adventure, heading south towards Wellington to catch the ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island.

We've got a long journey ahead of us, and we're ready for it! Today, we'll tour about 255 km, making a detour to the breathtaking Huka Falls and the fascinating Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

We'll make sure to explore everything before continuing east along Lake Taupo and then along the ever-changing Desert Road past Mount Ruapehu to Taihape.

Don't miss the awe-inspiring Lady Knox Geyser! Even if this geyser was actually created artificially and only reacts when soap is poured into its opening, it's still an incredible sight to see.

The fountains, ranging from 10 to 20 meters high, are a sight to behold, and they can last for several hours.

The geyser is so reliable that it's become famous for always showing its best side at 10:15 a.m., making it the perfect time to set your watch by it!

Once we arrive in Taihape, we will spend the night in a typical local style and share our experiences over dinner.

Day 7

Today is day 7 of our tour, and something truly special is on the agenda.

We've got about 236 km to go, and we're all looking forward to it! Even though the route is a bit shorter than usual, we're in for an unforgettable experience, going to see a side of the country and its people that we've never seen before.

We're setting off to visit a friend of a friend, and we can't wait to see what the day has in store.

Our destination today is the charming Martinborough in the South Wairarapa District, nestled along the Ruamahanga River and a short 15 km northeast of Lake Wairarapa.

The area is absolutely bursting with life, teeming with over 20 wineries.

The charming town of Martinborough, built in the traditional colonial style, is the epitome of New Zealand life.

Our host will greet us at one of the most beautiful hotels in town. We'll dive into New Zealand's vibrant food and drink culture, and of course, we'll indulge in a few wine tastings.

It's no surprise that New Zealand's oldest and most successful wine festival, the Toast Martinborough Food and Wine Festival, is celebrated here every year in this idyllic town.

Day 8

We're going to meet for breakfast at our traditional hotel, and we'll be well-rested and ready for the day ahead, without any lingering effects from the night before.

The adventure continues as we head to Wellington, or rather, to and along the breathtaking Kapiti Coast. Located opposite the beautiful Kapiti Island, it's a perfect spot to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Today's stage is a short 136 km, passing by Lake Wairarapa.

We'll be riding through the stunning Akatarawa Valley, nestled between the beautiful Kaitoke National Park and the Akatarawa Forest.

As we pass the Jock Atkins Waterfall, we'll take a very small and relatively unknown hairpin bend, adding an element of adventure to our journey.

Very few people get lost here. This shortcut to the Kapiti Coast is a well-kept secret among the locals, offering a unique and authentic experience.

Once we arrive in Wellington, we'll visit another friend in the evening. He's a true Kiwi and a BBQ maestro, so we're in for a treat! We're in good hands!

Since today's route is relatively short, we will relax in the hotel until 10:00 a.m.

This gives us some time to recover from last night.

Day 9

Today we’re heading to the South Island: we leave Wellington with last night’s Kiwi BBQ still fresh in our minds.

Early start: The ferry to Picton departs at 08:45. We leave the hotel at 07:00, check-in is at 07:30 — we’re definitely not missing that boat. If you’re late, you miss out on life… or at least the Cook Strait.

After the crossing, we ride on straight away: around 395 km in total today (including the ferry). We follow the coast on a dream road along Abel Tasman National Park all the way to Golden Bay — sunshine for days, a true paradise.

Our destination is Takaka (near Collingwood). Everything is already nicely lined up for us there — and that’s where we’ll stay overnight. And don’t worry: “Windy Welly” will be back on the menu on our way back — Wellington is an absolute must.

Day 10

Rest Day in Golden Bay / Abel Tasman National Park

Today we’re deliberately taking a free day in Golden Bay — and for good reason: after the ferry crossing and our first kilometres on the South Island via the legendary Queen Charlotte Drive (a winding coastal road through the Marlborough Sounds), this is the perfect moment to hit “pause” and let New Zealand sink in.

It’s your call — relax or be active, with no schedule and no pressure:

• sleep in, grab a coffee, enjoy Takaka
• beach, sun, sea — pure Golden Bay
• Abel Tasman National Park — optional hike on the Abel Tasman Coast Track

If you want to use the day actively, you can hike a particularly scenic section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track in about 5–6 hours. A transfer from our accommodation to the trail entry point is possible — and the best part: the track finishes back near our accommodation.

Whether it’s a full chill day or hiking boots instead of riding boots: today is all about Golden Bay. Tomorrow we’re back in the saddle — refreshed, clear-headed, and with a few new highlights in the bag.

Day 11

Today we leave Takaka and Golden Bay behind and continue toward the East Coast. If you did yesterday’s optional 5–6 hour hike in Abel Tasman National Park: respect — today it’s the motorcycle’s turn again.

Our route takes us over Lewis Pass, one of the most beautiful crossings on New Zealand’s South Island. Expect smooth, flowing corners, constantly changing scenery (forest, river valleys, mountains), and plenty of good spots for short photo stops — without turning the day into a slow crawl. In total, we’ll cover around 405 km — a proper riding day, and exactly the kind that lets you experience the South Island rather than just pass through it.

By late afternoon we arrive in Hanmer Springs. This mountain village is famous for its natural thermal pools — perfect for winding down after the kilometres and getting your legs loose again.

Day 12

Another 343 km ahead of us today — exactly the kind of riding day you want on the South Island: big scenery, great roads, and enough variety that it never feels like “just covering distance.”

Our destination is Lake Tekapo. We leave Christchurch to the side and deliberately stick to the back roads. Instead of city traffic, it’s wide valleys, quiet country lanes, and those classic South Island panoramas: open landscapes, mountain ranges on the horizon, and corners that simply flow. We’ll take time for short stops along the way — photos, coffee, a quick stretch — without turning the day into an endless stop-and-go.

By late afternoon we arrive in Tekapo and stay in a stunning setting right on Lake Tekapo. The perfect place to wind down — and to get ready, mentally (and physically), for tomorrow’s no-riding day.

Day 13

Day 13 is our rest day at Lake Tekapo. Sleep in, grab a coffee, sit by the lake, explore the area on your own — anything goes, nothing has to. Time to breathe, sort your photos, swap stories, and simply enjoy the moment.

One thing is non-negotiable today, though — and for good reason: our private 4x4 off-road tour into the mountain backcountry around Lake Tekapo. This isn’t an “optional extra” — it’s part of the experience, because it’s absolutely worth it.

We’ll head out in two Land Rovers with our private guides into the Mackenzie Country mountains. Expect huge views toward Lake Pukaki and the glacier region — and access to places you simply won’t reach on normal roads: remote wilderness, wide valleys, and even private sheep stations. This is the real New Zealand behind the postcard.

Day 14

Another 328 km ahead of us today — over 300 km of dream roads through wide valleys and across mountain ranges.

We’re riding to Mosgiel, a suburb of Dunedin, set at the head of the natural harbour, Otago Harbour. We’ll start early at 08:00 so we can check into our new hotel in good time — because afterwards we head straight into Dunedin.

Dunedin is often called the “Edinburgh of New Zealand” — proudly historic, unmistakably Scottish, and full of character. Expect a city packed with stories, home to the steepest street in the world, a distinct Scottish vibe, and some of the best-preserved Victorian buildings in the Southern Hemisphere.

The city wears its Scottish heritage with pride. Surrounded by the hills of the Otago Region and framed by its picturesque harbour, Dunedin is, for many, one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand. The best part: the key historic buildings are right in the city centre and easy to explore on foot.

Let’s go — any questions?

Day 15

Today, the West Coast is on the menu — in other words, we’re heading toward Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most famous places and easily one of the most visited regions in the country.

But first, we check in at Manapouri, right by Pātea Doubtful Sound — a natural masterpiece that can absolutely stand its ground next to Milford. This is where wildlife often comes very close: dolphins, penguins, and fur seals are all possible — and if we’re lucky (and luck usually travels with us), we may even spot whales.

Tonight we do something different: no hotel. We spend the night on a boat — an overnight cruise through Pātea Doubtful Sound, with everything that comes with it.

This unique trip is the perfect way to experience Doubtful Sound in all its facets — especially the landscape and the wildlife that lives here. Dinner and breakfast are served on board, surrounded by an unforgettable setting and views you won’t get from land.

Day 16

Now it’s time — we’re heading to Milford Sound.

After returning by boat to Manapouri in the early afternoon, we leave the small jetty, pick up our motorcycles from the nearby parking area, and set off for Milford Sound. One thing is guaranteed: the ride there is spectacular — and it’s also the only road into Milford. The 100+ km approach already sets the tone for what’s coming: nature at its best.

Once we arrive, we’ll take plenty of time to explore the area — and if the schedule allows, we may even squeeze in a short boat cruise on the Sound.

The best part about Milford Sound? The weather doesn’t matter. On a sunny day it’s beautiful — and on a wet day it’s downright spectacular. Fiordland is home to some of the world’s highest waterfalls, and Milford is one of the places where you really feel that: water pouring off massive cliffs straight into the sea, in any conditions.

Milford Sound lies within Fiordland National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area (about 26,000 km²), which includes four national parks.

Later in the evening we reach Te Anau, on the shores of Lake Te Anau, for our overnight stay. Together with Manapouri, Te Anau is one of the South Island’s most nature-focused places — the perfect base after a day like this.

Day 17

Day 17 is a riding day again. After a relaxed morning and sleeping in, we set off — with Fangorn Forest (Lord of the Rings) and Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu on today’s agenda.

Our goal is to reach Lake Wānaka by early evening. Before that, we’ll make a short stop in Queenstown — the famous backpacker town. It’s a spectacular place, surrounded by mountains and packed with incredible views.

For lunch, we’ll stop in the small historic town of Arrowtown — a village that still feels a bit like an old-time cowboy town.

Once we arrive at Lake Wānaka, we park the bikes, check into our accommodation, and then head down to the lakefront. The Wānaka waterfront is simply unforgettable.

It’s no surprise more and more people are drawn here — many come for a visit and end up wishing they could call this landscape home.

Day 18

Today is a proper riding day — well over 400 km. No big add-on activities, but honestly: the road is the experience here. West Coast vibes, Southern Alps scenery, and that raw, rugged South Island feeling New Zealand is famous for.

We start at Lake Wānaka and ride another dream route toward Hokitika. Along the way we track the edge of the Southern Alps, roll through Glacier Country (Franz Josef / Fox region), and then continue up the West Coast — deep rainforest green on one side, mountains and snowfields on the other. That contrast is exactly what makes this stretch so special.

The Southern Alps run for roughly 500 km — from the Nelson Lakes in the northeast to near the entrance of Milford Sound in the southwest. And towering above it all is Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724 m). Many of the higher sections are often snow- and ice-covered — yet you’ll still see lush ferns and thick vegetation right nearby. You don’t get that kind of scenery combo in many places on this planet.

By the end of the day we reach Hokitika — tired, happy, and pretty much guaranteed to have more photos than storage space.

Day 19

On Day 19 we cross the South Island Alps via Lewis Pass. This isn’t just a “get from A to B” day — the scenery keeps changing: national parks, wide valleys, narrow gorges, river corridors, waterfalls, and plenty of stretches where you naturally slow down because you simply want to take it all in.

We continue on to Culverden and then turn toward the East Coast. By evening we reach Kaikōura — and that’s exactly why this route is worth it: Kaikōura is widely considered one of the best places in New Zealand to spot whales from the mainland.

With a bit of luck, it won’t be just whales: you may also see dolphins offshore, seals sunbathing on the rocks along the coast, and sometimes even penguins casually crossing the road like they own the place.

We spend the night in Kaikōura. And if you want to take it up a notch: optionally, we can arrange a whale-spotting flight early the next morning — depending on availability and weather, either in a small propeller plane or by helicopter. From the air you’ll have the chance to see these animals up close — a true highlight for anyone who wants the full experience.

Day 20

Today it’s time to say goodbye to New Zealand’s South Island. By now you’ll have a pretty good feel for how differently the North and South Island tick — and why New Zealand has the reputation it does in the South Pacific.

To keep the day relaxed, we have a clear deadline: we need to be at the port in Picton for check-in by 13:15 at the latest. The ferry departs at 14:15 and takes us through the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington.

After arriving on the North Island, we continue toward Waikanae on the Kāpiti Coast. There we check into our accommodation near the beach and set ourselves up for a well-earned rest day tomorrow — exactly what we need after the last stages. And tonight comes the next New Zealand highlight: we’re invited to a Kiwi friend’s BBQ.

No one has ever gone hungry on our tours.

Day 21

Rest Day on the Kāpiti Coast – Waikanae & Wellington.

Today is a proper rest day: anything goes, nothing has to — it’s completely your call. Sleep in, unwind on the beach, head out on your own, or grab a beer with the locals (in New Zealand — and especially in Wellington — that’s pretty much a national pastime).

If you feel like some city time, you’re welcome to join the group: we’ll take the train from Waikanae to Wellington — the ride itself is part of the experience. In Wellington we’ll visit Te Papa, the national museum, a great place to get a real feel for New Zealand — especially Māori culture. After that, it’s on to Cuba Street for bars, cafés, and shops. And if you still have energy in the evening: Courtenay Place — Wellington nightlife included.

For film fans, Wellington is a perfect match: the city is New Zealand’s film hub, and if you’re after proper “Lord of the Rings” vibes, you’ll find them in Miramar at Wētā Workshop (props, costumes, behind-the-scenes movie craft). Optional — if time allows.

Day 22

After a great day — and very likely a long night — in windy Wellington (including a bit more “field research” into Kiwi party culture), we head north again, back in the direction of Auckland.

Before we get there, another real highlight is waiting: Mount Taranaki / Taranaki Maunga in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park (formerly Egmont National Park). We ride along the coast and pass through Whanganui — a place that has a special ring to it among motorcyclists. Around the holiday season, the Cemetery Circuit takes place here, one of New Zealand’s most iconic road-racing events. We know it from personal experience.

Mount Taranaki is a geologically young, perfectly shaped stratovolcano whose activity began around 130,000 years ago. It’s considered a “dormant” volcano but still classed as active — the most recent activity is placed in the 19th century (1850s/1860s), while the last major eruptive phase was much further back. For the Māori, the mountain has always been Taranaki — and Taranaki Maunga is the official name today. James Cook once referred to it as “Mount Egmont” (after the 2nd Earl of Egmont); that name is still known historically, but it’s mainly used today in the “formerly known as” context.

We’ll spend the night in New Plymouth — after roughly 374 km on the day.

Day 23

Early in the morning we continue along the West Coast — a stunning coastal road right beside the Tasman Sea. Around Tongapōrutu it gets seriously photogenic: wide-open ocean views, dramatic rock formations, and the Three Sisters Rocks — and on a clear day, Mount Taranaki in the background. If you enjoy taking photos, this is a gift.

By early afternoon we reach Otorohanga, where we’ll stay overnight. Getting there, we ride the Forgotten World Highway — an old, partly remote road that winds through small towns and former settlements. That’s exactly the appeal: lots of atmosphere, very little traffic, and you can feel the history in this part of the country.

After check-in, there’s one more must-do: the Waitomo Caves. If you’re already here, don’t miss the caves with their countless glowworms — we’ll explore them in the most relaxed way possible, by boat.

Day 24 (farewell day 18.12. and day to say goodbye)

The last day isn’t just “back to Auckland” — it’s our finale. On this final stage we get one more proper twist of the throttle, with a brilliant stretch of road and seemingly endless corners back toward Auckland, right to where it all began. Before we reach the city, we take a detour to the West Coast to Raglan: stunning scenery, salty air — and we watch the surfers at one of the most impressive surf spots in the world.

And if “just watching” feels too tame, you can top the day off with a real adrenaline upgrade: Karioi Canyoning (optional). This isn’t for fair-weather adventurers — you need to be comfortable in the water, able to dive through caves, and stay calm when it gets tight. Claustrophobic? Then this one is clearly not for you. But if you love water and have the nerve for it, it’s guaranteed to be something special.

Around 16:00 we arrive in Auckland, park the bikes, and check into our rooms — and then it’s not just “good night”: we meet for our planned farewell dinner and let the journey sink in together, with everything a tour like this leaves in your head (and your heart).

Day of return flight

If you’ve already booked your flight home for today and want to head straight back: totally fine — sometimes real life calls sooner than we’d like.

But if you’ve got a little breathing room in your schedule, feel free to stay with us for one more day. One extra day sounds small — in New Zealand it feels like a full bonus holiday. And honestly: our team spirit doesn’t end the moment the tour ends — we’d love to have you around a bit longer.

Either way: we’ll get you to Auckland International Airport reliably.

Important: we can only offer this airport shuttle today.

And if you’re thinking, “I’m already on the other side of the world — why rush back?” … exactly. You can absolutely choose to extend your stay. The journey here was long, so use the chance and make “Down Under” your time, not just a footnote.

Whatever you decide, we’ll support your plans — practical, straightforward, and in a way that you don’t just leave, but fly home with a properly rounded, good feeling.