Cycling on Waiheke Island

Pedal Your Way Through Paradise

Waiheke Island isn’t just for wine lovers—it’s a cyclist’s dream. Whether you're after coastal cruisers, scenic bush trails, or vineyard-to-vineyard e-bike tours, cycling is one of the best ways to experience the island’s beauty.

Why Cycle Waiheke?

• Breathtaking coastal views and peaceful backroads

• Compact island layout with varied terrain

• Low-traffic roads (outside peak times)

• Eco-friendly and sustainable travel option

• E-bike friendly for hills and longer distances

• Best Cycling Routes on Waiheke Island

Explore some of the island’s most scenic and enjoyable rides:

1. Coastal Cruiser – Easy to Moderate

Route: Oneroa → Palm Beach → Onetangi
Beach-hopping on wheels! Cruise through peaceful roads with stunning sea views, stopping for swims, coffee, or a beachfront lunch.

2. Vineyard Valley Loop – Moderate

Route: Onetangi → Te Motu → Tantalus → Casita Miro → Stonyridge
Perfect for wine lovers. A loop of vineyards, olive groves, and lunch options with bike racks. Best on an e-bike.

3. Bush & Bay Trail – Moderate to Challenging

Route: Surfdale → Rocky Bay → Whakanewha Regional Park
Great for nature lovers, with native bush, birdsong, and scenic forest tracks. Connects with walking trails in Whakanewha.

4. Island Explorer Loop – Advanced

Route: Matiatia → Oneroa → Onetangi → Orapiu and back
A full-day ride for confident cyclists ready to tackle Waiheke’s hills and hidden bays.

Bike & E-Bike Hire on Waiheke

Top Bike Hire Providers:

• E-Ride Waiheke (Oneroa) – e-bikes, maps, self-guided tour options

• Waiheke Bike Shop (Ostend) – mountain bikes and e-bikes

• Wild on Waiheke – bike hire with wine and activity packages

All providers include helmets, locks, and basic instructions. Most offer half-day, full-day, or multi-day hire. Group bookings and custom tours available.

Safety & Planning Tips

• Wear helmets – required by NZ law

• Keep left – NZ drivers drive on the left side of the road

• Hydration – bring plenty of water, especially in summer

• Navigation – use Google Maps or the Waiheke Island Cycling Map

• Ferries with bikes:

  • Fullers360: Bikes and e-bikes allowed (check surcharges)

  • Island Direct: Offers bike-friendly services

Family & Leisure Cycling

Looking for something gentle and fun for the whole whānau?

• Surfdale to Blackpool – flat and safe ride with beach stops

• Oneroa to Little Oneroa – short and scenic with picnic spots

• Whakanewha Park Trails – combine cycling with short bush walks

Most e-bike providers offer kid-friendly options or child seats. Perfect for island adventures with younger riders.

Vineyard & Foodie Bike Tours

Sample Wine Ride:

Route: Onetangi → Te Motu → Stonyridge → Casita Miro
Enjoy tastings, woodfired meals, and stunning vineyard views. Bookings recommended for lunch stops.

Tips:

• Always ride responsibly after wine tastings

• Take advantage of shaded rest spots and scenic outlooks

• Secure bikes when stopping – most vineyards have racks

Maps & Resources

Download:

• Waiheke Cycling Map (PDF)

• Te Ara Hura Trail Map

• Waiheke Audio Guide App – includes self-guided bike tour commentary