Auckland and its surrounding areas offer some of the most scenic and thrilling motorcycle routes in New Zealand. Whether you're a local rider or visiting from abroad, these top routes will satisfy your craving for adventure and stunning landscapes.
Here at MR MOTO, we’re not just passionate about bringing you the widest selection of accessories, clothing, safety gear and more. Our goal is to help to foster a thriving motorcycle community throughout the country, but particularly here in Auckland where we are based in Pukekohe.
The roads around our store, based in the heart of Pukekohe, offer some of the city’s best riding and that’s one of the reasons we based ourselves here. There is a huge motorcycle community in and around Pukekohe and we love to welcome people into the store whether they are looking for some new gear or simply want to chat about all things motorcycle.
Whilst we are passionate about the great riding on our own doorstep, we also know that we have a huge base of customers that live all around the country so we wanted to focus on providing some guides to some of the best motorcycle routes around the country, kicking off with Auckland.
So, grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and let's explore the best rides Auckland has to offer!
1. Auckland to Matakana
This picturesque ride takes you through the beautiful countryside north of Auckland. Start by heading up State Highway 16 through Kaukapakapa, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Kaipara Harbour. The winding roads and lush scenery make for an exhilarating ride.
Whilst there is the option to use SH1 to get to Matakana, this guide is all about the journey and not the destination so we will not be recommending the fastest journeys but the most scenic.
Key Features:
- Scenic views of Kaipara Harbour
- Winding country roads
- Matakana Wine Country
Stop-off Points:
- Matakana Village Farmers Market for local produce
- Pink Beach for a unique pink sand experience
- The Rusty Pelican for a delicious meal
2. Waiheke Island Loop
For a unique day trip, take your bike on the Sealink ferry from Half Moon Bay to Waiheke Island. The island's winding roads and coastal views make for a perfect riding experience.
Waiheke Island is a motorcyclist's paradise with lots of open roads, amazing views and very little traffic. Whilst you will have to get your bike over to the Island, it’s a definite bucket list ride for Auckland-based riders and one you need to tick off your list. Summer is the best time to explore the Island, although traffic numbers do increase as we head into the peak season so if you are looking for something a bit quieter, wait for the tourists to head to warmer climates in the winter months and take full advantage of a quiet and peaceful Island.
Key Features:
- Ferry ride with your motorcycle
- Coastal roads with stunning views
- Vineyards and beaches
Stop-off Points:
- Oneroa Beach for golden sands
- Stony Batter Historic Reserve for World War II gun emplacements
- Local wineries for tastings
3. The Coromandel Loop
While this route is a bit longer, it's widely regarded as one of the best motorcycle rides in New Zealand. The 400km loop takes you through the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.
OK, so this one is a bit of a stretch when it comes to Auckland’s best motorcycle routes, however, we don’t have enough rides to feature the Coromandel on its own and if you are looking for a really great day out from the City of Sails, then the Coromandel is perfect. The fact that you can loop the route up either the east or west coast of the Peninsula and come back the opposite way makes this route very appealing.
The windy roads offer great cycling and the views at the top of some of the climbs are nothing short of spectacular.
Key Features:
- Coastal roads with breathtaking views
- Winding mountain passes
- Diverse landscapes
Stop-off Points:
- Hot Water Beach
- Cathedral Cove
- Luke's Kitchen in Kuaotunu for amazing pizza and fish
4. Puhoi Pub Run
This short but sweet ride takes you to New Zealand's most iconic biker bar, the Puhoi Pub. Take the scenic route through Orewa for some beautiful coastal views.
Puhoi is a definite favourite within the motorcycle community and it’s easy to see why. This route is ideal for those who might only have a couple of hours to spare but want to escape the crazy Auckland traffic and feel like you have left the city behind, even though it’s only a short ride away.
Puhoi is a beautiful part of the city and one that is worth a visit to, especially if you haven’t been before.
Key Features:
- Quick escape from the city
- Historic pub destination
- Coastal scenery
Stop-off Points:
- Orewa Beach for a break and possible hot rod sightings
- Puhoi Pub for refreshments and biker camaraderie
- Dairy Flat Bakery for delicious pies and cream doughnuts
5. Riverhead Tavern Ride
For a quick getaway from the city, head to the Riverhead Tavern, one of New Zealand's oldest riverside pubs. This ride offers a perfect blend of urban and rural landscapes.
If you want to take things a bit further than Puhoi and have a bit more time to spare, then the Riverhead Tavern, located in Riverhead, is a great option. The pub itself is set on the backdrop of the river, but it can get busy, especially on the weekends. The Hallertau Brew pub just a bit further on the road offers a good alternative and you will often find live music playing on the weekends. The outdoor seating at both venues is ideal for warm sunny days.
Key Features:
- Short, relaxing ride
- Historic tavern destination
- Mix of city and countryside views
Stop-off Points:
- The Landing restaurant for upscale dining
- Portage bar for a casual atmosphere and outdoor area
- The Albany pub (if riding on a Thursday night)
6. Wellsford Circuit from Albany
This route takes you on a loop north of Auckland, offering a mix of straight stretches and winding roads. It's perfect for riders looking for a longer day trip with varied scenery.
Wellsford might not necessarily be the first place you think of for a bike ride in Auckland, however, similar to our first route to Matakana, making use of SH16 rather than SH1 makes this a very scenic option.
If you want to extend your trip beyond Matakana, Pakiri Beach is absolutely stunning and sits at the bottom of one of the most glorious bits of coastline in the North Island, stretching all the way up to Mangawhai and taking in Te Arai and more.
Key Features:
- Mix of road types for diverse riding experience
- Rural landscapes
- Coastal views
Stop-off Points:
- Wellsford for a quick break and refuel
- Pakiri Beach for a scenic coastal stop
- Matakana for lunch and wine tasting
7. Awhitu Peninsula Loop
Head southwest of Auckland to explore the Awhitu Peninsula. This route offers stunning views of the Manukau Harbour and the Tasman Sea.
Most of the routes so far have focused on the north of the city, however, the Awhitu Peninsula loop is an absolute beaut of a ride. This is a popular route for our local motorcycle community in Pukukohe and one that sees a lot of traffic, especially on the weekends but there are lots of places to stop off so the roads never feel too busy.
Key Features:
- Coastal roads with harbour and sea views
- Rural farmland scenery
- Winding roads through rolling hills
Stop-off Points:
- Awhitu Regional Park for a beach break
- Manukau Heads Lighthouse for panoramic views
- Clarks Beach for a seaside lunch
Whether you're looking for a quick ride or a full-day adventure, Auckland's surrounding areas offer something for every motorcycle enthusiast. From coastal roads to winding mountain passes, these routes showcase the best of New Zealand's diverse landscapes.
Before you hit the road, make sure your bike is in top condition and you have all the gear you need. For all your motorcycle parts, accessories, and gear, visit MR MOTO online or drop by our Pukekohe store. We've got everything you need to make your ride safe, comfortable, and stylish.
So, gear up, rev your engine, and explore the best that Auckland has to offer on two wheels. And remember, for all your motorcycle needs, MR MOTO has got you covered. Ride safe and enjoy the journey!