New Zealand’s North Island is the perfect place for families to enjoy the great outdoors on two wheels. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled mountain biking adventure or a scenic, easy-going ride, there’s something for everyone—kids included! From thrilling downhill tracks to peaceful lakeside paths, here’s a look at some of the best cycling and mountain biking spots for families in the North Island.
When it comes to family-friendly mountain biking, Rotorua, Taupo, and Auckland are top destinations. These regions are known for their exciting trails, which cater to all ages and skill levels. You’ll find everything from beginner-friendly tracks to more adventurous paths for the thrill-seekers in your family.
One of the best spots for family mountain biking is the Redwoods in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest. With about 130 km of trails, the forest offers plenty of options for beginners and younger riders, as well as more challenging paths for older kids and parents. The wide, well-maintained tracks wind through a stunning forest of towering trees, making it a fun and safe environment for families.
If you want to take it up a notch, the Skyline Rotorua park is also a great family option. This park offers gondola-assisted biking, which means you can take the gondola up and then ride down the fun, flowing trails. Even if your kids are new to biking, there are easy tracks they can enjoy, and you can build up to the more exciting trails as everyone gets more confident.
Taupo is another amazing destination for families who love cycling. The Great Lake Trail is a fantastic ride for kids and adults alike. With smooth, flowing paths and lots of stunning views along the way, it’s the perfect place for a family cycling adventure. The trail passes through beautiful native forests, by waterfalls, and along the shores of Lake Taupo. You can ride as little or as much of the trail as you want, making it great for families who want to go at their own pace.
For younger kids or beginners, the Great Lake Walkway is a flat and easy ride that hugs the shores of Lake Taupo. On a clear day, you can see the mountains in the distance, and there are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or even a quick swim in the lake. It’s a wonderful way to spend a sunny day as a family.
For families with older kids looking for a bit more adventure, the Craters of the Moon Mountain Bike Park has over 60 tracks, with options for all abilities. There are gentle trails for beginners and more technical ones for those seeking a challenge.
If you’re looking for family biking fun near Auckland, Woodhill Forest is a fantastic choice. Located just a short drive from the city, it offers over 100 km of tracks that are perfect for families. The forest has a wide range of trails, from easy paths that are great for kids to more advanced options for adventurous teens and parents. With wide-open spaces and safe, well-marked trails, Woodhill is a favourite spot for families wanting to explore on two wheels.
For a more relaxed ride in the city, the Mission Bay coastal pathway offers a flat and scenic cycling route with gorgeous views of the water. It’s an easy ride for kids, with plenty of spots to stop for ice cream or a beachside break.
For families in Wellington, the city offers a variety of scenic and accessible cycling options that are perfect for kids of all ages. The Wellington Waterfront is a popular flat route that follows the harbour, offering stunning sea views and plenty of places to stop for snacks or play along the way. Kids will love watching the boats and spotting the local wildlife as you cycle along the easy-to-navigate path.
A short drive out of Wellington, families can also explore the beautiful Hutt River Trail, which stretches over 29 km and is mostly flat, making it ideal for younger cyclists. The trail passes through parks, alongside the river, and even has spots where you can stop for a picnic or dip your toes in the water. It’s a perfect family-friendly ride with lots of natural beauty.
For families looking to take in more of the region’s outdoor spaces, the Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park is a great option for those with slightly older children who are confident on bikes. The park has trails that range from beginner to advanced, offering something for everyone while enjoying Wellington’s lush landscapes.
If your family prefers a more leisurely pace, the North Island has plenty of scenic cycling routes that are easy for all ages. In Auckland, the path along Mission Bay is a flat and smooth ride, ideal for younger kids. In Wellington, you can cycle along the beautiful waterfront or explore the flat track around Petone or the Hutt River Trails—both great for families and easily accessible by train.
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