Otago is New Zealand's capital of adventure tourism, from hiking and biking to bungee jumping.
Now Otago is strengthening its position as one of New Zealand's premier cycle tourism destinations, with its interconnected trail network set to expand beyond 500 kilometres.
Key to this growth is the opening of the Kawarau Gorge Trail this spring.
It marks another step toward creating a seamless network linking Queenstown through Central Otago and onward to Dunedin.
Stretching 32 kilometres, the Kawarau Gorge Trail will connect Gibbston to Bannockburn along the Kawarau River corridor.
Built on the opposite side of the river from the highway, the grade 2-3 trail offers a moderately challenging ride through striking landscapes. Riders will traverse remote terrain, navigate rock bluffs, through areas once inhabited by gold miners on a journey between renowned wine sub-regions.
Importantly, the trail will link two of New Zealand's Great Rides, the Queenstown Trail with the Lake Dunstan Trail.
At the same time, local tourism authorities report work is underway on the final 13km section of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail between Doctors Point and Shingle Creek, with completion anticipated in summer 2026-27.
Currently accessible only by boat, this section has long been a missing link in the network. Once completed, riders will have the choice to experience this remote and spectacular landscape entirely by bike.
With more than 500 kilometres of connected trails, Otago offers a variety of experiences - from short half-day rides to multi-day journeys.
Supporting this network is a well-established ecosystem of experienced local operators providing bike hire, transfers, luggage services, accommodation, and tailored itinerary planning.
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