Taupo – the riding hub of the North Island

The Taupo region has some of the best year-round mountain biking in New Zealand, with internationally recognised, purpose-built trails to suit every type of bike rider. Journey through ancient lands, lush native forests, alpine terrain and geothermal landscapes, atop clifftop ledges and river edges and across some of the country’s longest and highest suspension bridges - all from the seat of a bike.

Several trails start right from the heart of Taupo town and Turangi, just jump on your bike and go. And thanks to the pumice-rich, free-draining soils of the region, every day is a good day for a ride, even in winter. Taupo’s riding experiences range from grade 1 family and e-bike tracks to epic overnight adventures, grade 5 downhill, mountain bike and BMX jump parks. Highlights include the Tongariro River Trail, Huka Trails, Te Iringa, plus the Waikato River Trails, Great Lake Trails and Timber Trail which are part of Nga Haerenga The New Zealand Cycle Trail network.

What’s more - the central location of Taupo makes exploration further afield a breeze. Taupo is the perfect place to base yourself for a biking holiday and explore other world-renowned trails and mountain bike parks within the North Island, all within a two-hour radius. Just 45-minutes north of Taupo you’ll discover the gold level IMBA ride centre - Rotorua. With two internationally recognised mountain bike parks, and more than 200km of trails for every level of ability, the Redwoods (Whakarewarewa Forest) Mountain Bike Park and Skyline Mountain Bike Park are sure to make every level of rider hoot with joy. Less than two hours to the east you will discover Pan Pac Eskdale Mountain Bike Park and Te Mata Peak Park in Hawke's Bay. To the south you can explore the 42 Traverse, Fishers Track and the Ohakune Old Coach Road in the Ruapehu region.

It’s not only the world-class riding on offer, but also the ‘après-bike’ experience that makes Taupo such a special riding hub and the best place to stay for a biking holiday. Add some adventure activities like sailing, jet boating, skydiving, white water rafting and bungy jumping to your biking holiday or top off the day with locally brewed craft beers and hearty cuisine. For those who enjoy relaxation at an easy pace – it’s not all about adrenaline. Explore gentle geothermal walkways, art galleries and boutique shopping and natural geothermal hot pools as the sun goes down.

Riders of all ages will find themselves spoilt for choice, with a multitude of trails, accommodation and ‘après-bike’ activities to choose from in Taupo. Explore the trails on your own, hire a bike or take a guided trip – riders will uncover experiences and scenery that will take their breath away.