Included: 2 experienced, local cycling guides with extensive knowledge of the area 6-day New Zealand cycling holiday (5 days of riding) Accommodation for 5 nights in hotels and motels (double occupancy rooms) Most meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners) Snacks, fruit, and water while cycling Comfortable support vehicle throughout Speciality bike trailer to carry bikes and luggage Department of Conservation and National Park fees Pick-up and drop-off from/to Taupō central location Experiences as in the itinerary: Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Entry to Wairakei Thermal Hotpools Boat excursion on Lake Rotoiti on the unique Airstream Project Locally hosted traditional Maori dinner Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout): Single occupancy room Bike rentals (standard bikes and e-bikes) Not included: Flights and taxes Airport transfers Meals not mentioned in the itinerary All beverages (other than breakfast and water while cycling) Road/gravel bike (rentals available, helmet included) Optional activities Personal expenses Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

For this New Zealand cycling holiday, you’ll need a good level of fitness and feel comfortable spending several hours on the bike each day. We recommend riding 2–3 hours, three times a week in the months leading up to the trip to prepare. You can expect to cycle up to 68 km (42 mi) per day, with up to 1,218 m (3,996 ft) of elevation gain on the longest day. Standard daily distances are typically shorter, around 50–60 km (31–37 mi). Most riding is on quiet backroads , but you should be confident cycling with low to moderate traffic. E-bikes are a great option if used properly, especially for managing climbs and conserving battery. The trip is fully supported, so if you need a break at any point, you can hop into the support vehicle. Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more New Zealand bike tours here!

What do I need to bring?

The tour is fully supported so you won’t have to carry anything. If hiring one of our bikes, it will have a pannier bag. We recommend you pack your luggage in a soft sports bag for easy stowing in the trailer/ vehicle. We urge you to keep your luggage to a minimum. If you have extra luggage you do not require for your holiday, we can arrange to store it until the end of the trip. Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Bike & helmet — bike rental available Comfortable biking clothes Spare clothes for layering Sneakers or sport shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Waterproof rain jacket Fleece Quality thermal wear Casual clothes and sneakers for when you’re not cycling Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Biking gloves Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Yes — bike rental is available , with several high-quality options to match different riding styles, comfort needs, and experience levels. Mountain bikes (non-e-bike): Avanti Discovery – Hardtail Mountain Bike — A simple, solid, and comfortable hardtail built for mixed terrain. It features front suspension, fast-rolling tyres, a 1×10 drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable control. A rear rack with a rack bag (included) makes it easy to carry layers, lunch, or a camera. Available in multiple frame sizes (exact sizing subject to availability). Gravel bikes (non-e-bike): The Avanti Gran-Durance 3 is a drop bar gravel bike built for smooth riding on both sealed roads and light gravel. It offers a comfortable yet efficient position for long days in the saddle, with stable handling and reliable performance across varied terrain. It’s a great fit for this trip, where the riding mixes quiet backroads with occasional gravel sections. E-bikes: Sinch e-bike – front suspension (mountain bike style) — Designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, these pedal-assist eBikes smooth out hills and longer days thanks to reliable Shimano motor systems. They feature front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable upright riding position. Available in sizes L and XL. Sinch e-bikes – step-through options — These models offer the same pedal-assist support and trail-ready setup, with step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture. Available in sizes XS, S, and M, with L and XL step-through options available on request. If you’re unsure which bike is best for you, we’re happy to help match you with the right setup based on height, experience, and riding style.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this New Zealand cycling holiday , the usual client-to-guide ratio is 7 :1. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants . Solo travelers can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. A New Zealand cycling holiday can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the New Zealand cycling holiday on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this New Zealand cycling holiday is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Solo travelers are welcome —they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your New Zealand cycling holiday is Taupō, a town near the center of North Island. To get there, most people fly into Auckland Airport (AKL) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Taupō . You will meet your guide on Day 1 in Taupō. Keep in mind that you’ll need to arrive at least a day prior to Day 1 of the tour as you will meet your guide on the first day of the tour in central Taupō. At the end of the tour, please avoid booking any flights departing from Taupo on the final day before 6 pm.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

TAUPŌ | NEW ZEALAND

North Island Volcanic Plateau Loop: New Zealand Cycling Holiday

6 days | Moderate | 5.00

From $2,519 ()

Book a call

If you’ve ever wanted to ride through Middle-earth, this is about as close as it gets. Over six days, we’ll cycle through New Zealand’s North Island, linking Rotorua’s bubbling geothermal landscapes with Taupō’s lakeside calm and everything in between. We ride into places most people never see: quiet farming country, limestone valleys, and backroads that feel properly off the map. Along the way, we soak in hot pools, cruise Lake Rotoiti on a one-of-a-kind boat, meet locals, and dive into Māori culture. Glowworm caves, Hobbiton, Huka Falls; it’s all here. We don’t skim New Zealand—we go straight to its core!

Jude

Adventure Highlights

Middle-earth on two wheels: Ride through Hobbit country, volcanic landscapes, and scenes straight out of LOTR
Geothermal park extravaganza: Experience Wai-O-Tapu, bubbling mud, and have a soak at Wairakei terraces
From lakes to local tables: Boat Lake Rotoiti, visit glowworm caves and Huka Falls, and share a real Māori dinner with locals

Duration

6 days

Season

October through April

Group size

Up to 14 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

This 6-day New Zealand cycling holiday loops through the North Island’s volcanic plateau, linking Taupō, Rotorua, Cambridge, Waitomo, and Piopio. We ride quiet backroads through geothermal landscapes, rolling farmland, and limestone valleys, with highlights including Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Lake Rotoiti, glowworm caves, and Huka Falls. Along the way, we connect with Māori culture, enjoy a locally hosted dinner, and have the option to visit Hobbiton. The trip is fully supported, with vehicle backup, luggage transfers, and comfortable stays each night.

Day 1: Taupō and Atiamuri

You’ll meet your guides in Taupō and, after a short introduction and tour briefing, transfer to Atiamuri to start riding. Our first day takes us through the Waikite Valley, with panoramic views of rolling hills, farmland, and forest. We pass the Waikite Valley Hot Pools and take a short walk to New Zealand’s largest natural boiling spring before continuing to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a striking geothermal area. Later on, we’ll transfer to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel or motel in Rotorua
Riding: 50 km (31 mi)
Elevation gain: 752 m (2,467 ft)

Day 2: Rotorua to Lake Rotoiti

We ride out from Rotorua along its steaming waterfront, catching glimpses of the region’s geothermal energy and Māori heritage before climbing around Mount Ngongotaha, a volcanic dome overlooking the city. From here, we roll through Paradise Valley and into the Mamaku Plateau, where unusual volcanic rock formations dot the landscape. After the ride, we transfer around Lake Rotorua and continue to Lake Rotoiti. In the afternoon, we explore the lake by boat aboard the unique Airstream Project, then wrap up the day with a traditional Māori home-hosted dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel or motel near Lake Rotoiti
Riding: 41 km (25 mi)
Elevation gain: 577 m (1,893 ft)

Day 3: Rotorua to Cambridge

After a short morning transfer, we start riding through the rolling green hills of the Waikato region, chosen as the setting for Hobbiton in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Expect classic New Zealand countryside with quiet roads, lush farmland, and scenery that feels almost unreal. We finish in Cambridge, a charming rural town known for its tree-lined streets and heritage feel. The afternoon is yours to explore, or you can opt to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set for a behind-the-scenes look at the Shire.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel or motel in Cambridge
Riding: 56 km (35 mi)
Elevation gain: 635 m (2,083 ft)

Day 4: Cambridge to Waitomo

We ride south through the rolling farmland of the Waikato region, passing through Otorohanga, once a traditional Māori village and now a small rural hub. The landscape gradually shifts as we enter the Waitomo Valley, where bush-covered hills and limestone formations define the scenery. Following quiet roads alongside the Waitomo Stream, we reach the village of Waitomo, famous for its underground cave systems and glowworms. There’s time to visit one of the region’s most impressive glowworm caves or take a short walk through the Ruakuri bush before settling in for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel or motel in Waitomo
Cycling (standard): 54 km (34 mi)
Elevation gain (standard): 476 m (1,562 ft)
Cycling (extended): 68 km (42 mi)
Elevation gain (extended): 604 m (1,982 ft)

Day 5: Waitomo to Piopio

We start the day with a short walk through one of New Zealand’s most scenic limestone gorges, passing through forest, sculpted cliffs, and natural arches before getting back on the bikes. Today’s ride is all about variety, with rolling farmland, native forest, and striking limestone formations shaping the landscape. The views keep opening up, and on a clear day we can spot the volcanoes of the Central Plateau, including Mt Ruapehu and even Mt Taranaki on the horizon. We finish in the small village of Piopio, where a relaxed evening and a great local meal await.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel or motel in Piopio
Riding (standard): 41 km (25 mi)
Elevation gain (standard): 811 m (2,661 ft)
Riding (extended): 68 km (42 mi)
Elevation gain (extended): 1,218 m (3,996 ft)

Day 6: Piopio to Taupō

After a morning transfer, we start our final ride from Whakamaru, following quiet backroads through classic North Island countryside. It’s a fitting last day, with peaceful riding and wide-open rural views all the way to Wairakei. Here, we reward ourselves with a soak in the Wairakei Terraces hot pools, a geothermal setting long used for relaxation and healing. Before wrapping up, we take a short walk to Huka Falls to see the Waikato River surge through a narrow gorge. We return to Taupō in the afternoon, completing the adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Riding: 50 km (31 mi)
Elevation gain: 874 m (2,867 ft)

Adventure Architect

Let’s build something unique. Design your own adventure from the ground up and let us handle the rest.

Start Designing

Photo gallery

Lodging

3 to 4-star motels/hotels

Throughout the trip, we stay in a mix of hotel and motel-style accommodation, based on twin-share rooms. The overnight stops follow the route through Rotorua, the Lake Rotoiti area, Cambridge, Waitomo, and Piopio. The accommodation is designed to keep the logistics simple and the trip comfortable, with each stay well placed for the next day’s ride and activities.

Adventure, packed to go

North Island Volcanic Plateau Loop: New Zealand Cycling Holiday

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

Download now

Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Jude

Jude owned two Pita Pit stores in Palmerston North for 10 years and sold them in 2021 to pursue her passion for the outdoors. She has biked the Camino de santiago, Vietnam, the Netherlands and most of the NZ Cycle Trails. Jude purchased a Camper Van in 2021 and travelled NZ for 12 months. In 2022 Jude biked Cape Reinga to Bluff to raise funds for Diabetes NZ.

5.00

Robbie

Robbie was brought up on a sheep and cattle farm South of Auckland and grew up spending her weekends outdoors building huts and catching eels. She spent nearly 30 years in the clothing industry and has travelled the world extensively. Robbie competed and crewed in multi-sport and adventure races. She really embraced a love of cycling over the last 15 years travelling within NZ and overseas on numerous occasions to race, ride, guide, bike-pack and explore what is on offer.

5.00

Eli

Originally from Northland, Eli now calls Queenstown home. After starting out in the engineering industry, he has spent the past three years working in adventure tourism. Passionate about sharing the outdoors, Eli enjoys helping others discover new challenges and experiences. In his spare time, he’s often bikepacking around NZ, trail running in the mountains, or climbing big rocks.

5.00

Heather

Heather is a 5th generation kiwi from Christchurch and grew up on the family farm enjoying the foothills, lakes & Southern Alps of the South Island. She enjoys all of the outdoor activities Kiwis love, including skiing, hiking, biking, boating and horse riding. Heather loves sharing her backyard with like minded people.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (4 reviews)

David S

Having bicycle toured in 9 other countries, the chosen routes are beautiful. The Maori dinner and the extra glow worm cave are an absolute must! The added 1km walks and brief stops all well worth the time. Our guides were delightful and capable. I highly recommend this tour.

Jenny B

Excellent guides Spectacular scenery. Out standing guides.

John A

A great holiday. Memorable scenery, and the guides were excellent.

Show all reviews

David S

Jenny B

Excellent guides Spectacular scenery. Out standing guides.

John A

A great holiday. Memorable scenery, and the guides were excellent.

Donna D

Loved the experience of cycling through the vast hill country of South Island stations. Guides were amazing.

Things to know

Included:
- - 2 experienced, local cycling guides with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 6-day New Zealand cycling holiday (5 days of riding)
  - Accommodation for 5 nights in hotels and motels (double occupancy rooms)
  - Most meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners)
  - Snacks, fruit, and water while cycling
  - Comfortable support vehicle throughout
  - Speciality bike trailer to carry bikes and luggage
  - Department of Conservation and National Park fees
  - Pick-up and drop-off from/to Taupō central location
  - Experiences as in the itinerary:
    
    Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
    
    Entry to Wairakei Thermal Hotpools
    
    Boat excursion on Lake Rotoiti on the unique Airstream Project
    
    Locally hosted traditional Maori dinner
Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
  - Bike rentals (standard bikes and e-bikes)
Not included:
- - Flights and taxes
  - Airport transfers
  - Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  - All beverages (other than breakfast and water while cycling)
  - Road/gravel bike (rentals available, helmet included)
  - Optional activities
  - Personal expenses
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
For this New Zealand cycling holiday, you’ll need a good level of fitness and feel comfortable spending several hours on the bike each day. We recommend riding 2–3 hours, three times a week in the months leading up to the trip to prepare.

You can expect to cycle up to 68 km (42 mi) per day, with up to 1,218 m (3,996 ft) of elevation gain on the longest day. Standard daily distances are typically shorter, around 50–60 km (31–37 mi).

Most riding is on quiet backroads, but you should be confident cycling with low to moderate traffic. E-bikes are a great option if used properly, especially for managing climbs and conserving battery. The trip is fully supported, so if you need a break at any point, you can hop into the support vehicle.

Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more New Zealand bike tours here!
The tour is fully supported so you won’t have to carry anything. If hiring one of our bikes, it will have a pannier bag. We recommend you pack your luggage in a soft sports bag for easy stowing in the trailer/ vehicle. We urge you to keep your luggage to a minimum. If you have extra luggage you do not require for your holiday, we can arrange to store it until the end of the trip.

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Bike & helmet — bike rental available
  - Comfortable biking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Sneakers or sport shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Fleece
  - Quality thermal wear
  - Casual clothes and sneakers for when you’re not cycling
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Biking gloves
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
Yes — bike rental is available, with several high-quality options to match different riding styles, comfort needs, and experience levels.

Mountain bikes (non-e-bike):
- - Avanti Discovery – Hardtail Mountain Bike — A simple, solid, and comfortable hardtail built for mixed terrain. It features front suspension, fast-rolling tyres, a 1×10 drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable control. A rear rack with a rack bag (included) makes it easy to carry layers, lunch, or a camera. Available in multiple frame sizes (exact sizing subject to availability).
Gravel bikes (non-e-bike):
- - The Avanti Gran-Durance 3 is a drop bar gravel bike built for smooth riding on both sealed roads and light gravel. It offers a comfortable yet efficient position for long days in the saddle, with stable handling and reliable performance across varied terrain. It’s a great fit for this trip, where the riding mixes quiet backroads with occasional gravel sections.
E-bikes:
- - Sinch e-bike – front suspension (mountain bike style) — Designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, these pedal-assist eBikes smooth out hills and longer days thanks to reliable Shimano motor systems. They feature front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable upright riding position. Available in sizes L and XL.
  - Sinch e-bikes – step-through options — These models offer the same pedal-assist support and trail-ready setup, with step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture. Available in sizes XS, S, and M, with L and XL step-through options available on request.
If you’re unsure which bike is best for you, we’re happy to help match you with the right setup based on height, experience, and riding style.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this New Zealand cycling holiday, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 7:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants.
  - Solo travelers can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.
A New Zealand cycling holiday can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the New Zealand cycling holiday on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this New Zealand cycling holiday is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.
The starting point of your New Zealand cycling holiday is Taupō, a town near the center of North Island. To get there, most people fly into Auckland Airport (AKL). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Taupō.

You will meet your guide on Day 1 in Taupō.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to arrive at least a day prior to Day 1 of the tour as you will meet your guide on the first day of the tour in central Taupō. At the end of the tour, please avoid booking any flights departing from Taupo on the final day before 6 pm.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits

Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.

Talk to an Adventure Planner