Cycling & Mountain Biking

Easy Riding

Village & Road Cycling

Hanmer Springs village is flat and compact, making it perfect for leisurely two-wheeled exploring. Quiet streets connect the pools, cafés, and forest edges, while the sealed road out through the Waiau River valley offers longer scenic rides with mountain views in every direction.

Families love the gentle paths that loop through the village — pick up a bike from one of the local hire shops and you're rolling in minutes.

Flat Village Terrain

All Ages Difficulty

Singletrack

Forest Mountain Biking

The Hanmer Forest Park trails wind through native bush and exotic pine, with flowing berms, technical root sections, and fast descents that keep intermediate and advanced riders grinning. The network is steadily growing as new trails are cut each season.

After rain, the loamy forest soil drains quickly — but check conditions before heading out on the gnarlier tracks.

Grade 3–4 Trail Grade

Growing Trail Network

Rides

Cycling Trails

Five of the best rides in and around Hanmer Springs — from a quick village spin to an epic backcountry adventure.

Village Loop

A flat, family-friendly circuit on sealed paths around the village centre, connecting the pools, playground, and main street cafés.

30 min Easy Flat paths

Forest Singletrack

Winding trails through native bush with flowing berms, root gardens, and short punchy climbs. The loamy soil drains fast after rain.

1–2 hrs Intermediate Native bush

Jollies Pass Road

A scenic gravel road climbing into the high country with sweeping mountain views. The descent back to Hanmer is a highlight.

2 hrs Moderate Gravel road

Waiau River Trail

Follow the braided Waiau River on a mix of gravel and dirt paths with mountain views. Mostly flat with a few gentle rises.

1.5 hrs Easy–Moderate Riverside

St James Cycle Trail

An epic backcountry ride through the St James Conservation Area — remote tussock valleys, river crossings, and high-country stations. A full day (or multi-day) adventure for experienced riders.

Full day Advanced Backcountry

Bike Hire & Essentials

Bike hire is available from shops in the village — mountain bikes, e-bikes, and kids' bikes
Helmets are compulsory for all cyclists in New Zealand — hire shops include them
Carry water and snacks on rides longer than an hour, especially in summer
Check trail conditions at the Hanmer Springs Information Centre (42 Amuri Ave West) or at visithurunui.co.nz before heading out
The forest trails can be shared with walkers — ride with courtesy and give way to pedestrians

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Local tip: The Jollies Pass Road ride rewards with spectacular high-country views — go in autumn for golden colours against snow-dusted peaks. Start early to catch the morning light and avoid afternoon headwinds.