The 6 Most Popular Bike Tours In South Island

South Island of New Zealand is a cyclist’s paradise. With its dramatic landscapes, from rugged mountains to lush vineyards, it offers some of the most memorable biking experiences in the world. Whether you prefer a gentle cruise through historic towns like Arrowtown or the adrenaline rush of mountain biking at Cardrona, there’s something for every rider here. We’re particularly fond of the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire for its ease and scenic flexibility, and the Master Cardrona Bike Park for those craving technical downhill fun. With dozens of options, you can tailor your ride to match your fitness level, interests, and schedule.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the six best bike tours in South Island. From electric bike rentals suitable for all ages to full-day mountain biking adventures, each experience offers a unique flavor of the region. Whether you’re after a relaxing sightseeing ride or high-adrenaline downhill thrills, you’ll find something here.

Quick Overview

This list includes a variety of biking experiences: electric bike hires, which make exploring accessible and enjoyable for most; mountain biking adventures in elite parks like Cardrona; guided tours with shuttle services that take the hassle out of logistics; and customizable rentals for flexible exploration. Each tour has been selected for its quality, value, and overall fun factor. Now, let’s get into the details so you can find your perfect ride.

1. Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire

At number 1, the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire offers a flexible, relaxing way to explore the historic gold rush town and its surroundings. For around $83.78 per person, you get an e-bike for anywhere from one to eight hours. These bikes are perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground without breaking a sweat — or if you’re traveling with friends or family with varied fitness levels.

The rental includes bikes, helmets, and trail maps, with staff on hand to give local tips before you set off. Many riders enjoy the freedom to wander from Arrowtown’s charming streets into nearby trails, like the Gibbston Valley wine region or the Arrow River Trails. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and the ease of the bikes, with one commenter calling it “a wonderful, hassle-free way to see Arrowtown and beyond.” The e-bikes do much of the work on steep hills, making this option accessible for most.

This tour is ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace, mixing town sightseeing with scenic trail riding. It’s particularly suited for families or travelers who prefer a relaxed, self-led experience. The bottom line: it’s a fantastic way to enjoy South Island’s scenery without the physical strain.

2. Arrowtown Mountain Bike Hire

Second on our list, the Arrowtown Mountain Bike Hire caters to those who want a more active, mountain biking experience. For about $52.75, you get a mountain bike for up to eight hours, with the flexibility to start in the morning and return by evening. Helmets, trail maps, and panniers are included, making it easy to explore without extra gear.

This service shines for its versatility and family-friendliness. Whether you just want a quick spin around Arrowtown or plan to tackle full-day trails, they’ll help you select the right bike and offer local trail advice. The nearby Arrow River Bridges Trail is an easy, picturesque ride that many review as “perfect for beginners and families” — a great introduction to New Zealand biking.

What makes this rental special is its ability to adapt to your schedule and skill level. If you’re looking for a flexible, fun way to explore the area without guided tours, this is a top choice. The value is strong, especially considering the included equipment and helpful staff.

Bottom Line: It’s a straightforward, affordable option for family outings or casual mountain biking — no fuss, just good riding.

3. E-Bike Hire with Return Shuttle from Queenstown Accommodation

At number 3, the E-Bike Hire with Return Shuttle from Queenstown Accommodation offers a premium experience. For $120.56 per person, you get a French-made e-bike and a convenient shuttle service that picks you up from your Queenstown lodging and drops you off in Arrowtown.

This tour’s standout feature is the top-quality e-bikes and personalized staff who match you to trails suited to your ability. You can choose from 1 to 8 hours of riding, with the shuttle making logistics effortless. Riders often take advantage of this to explore scenic routes, including wineries where you can sample Otago Pinot Noir if you want a bit of wine tasting along the way.

Reviews praise the bikes’ quality and the friendly, helpful staff. During the ride, you’ll soak in stunning views and easily access different trail options, making this a flexible choice for all skill levels. If you’re short on time, it offers a well-rounded day of cycling with minimal hassle.

Bottom Line: It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided feel with the flexibility of self-directed riding, especially if you value premium equipment.

4. Bike Hire with Return Transport from Accommodation

Number 4 is Bike Hire with Return Transport from Accommodation. For $114.81, you get a full day (about 8 hours) of self-guided riding through Queenstown’s best trails, starting right outside your door. As Kiwi-owned and operated, this service prides itself on helping you discover the local trails known only to enthusiasts.

The ride options cover some of the most stunning scenery in New Zealand. The flexible start time and the ability to set your pace allow you to tailor the day to your interests. Whether you’re into easy scenic rides or challenging mountain trails, they’ll help you plan your route. The convenience of pickup and drop-off makes this a stress-free choice, especially for those interested in a DIY adventure.

Reviews note that the trails are “absolutely breathtaking,” and the local knowledge from staff helps you find hidden gems along the way. It’s best suited for riders comfortable with navigation or those who want to explore independently.

Bottom Line: This is a top pick for experienced cyclists or those comfortable with planning their own routes, offering maximum flexibility.

5. Queenstown Trails E-Bike Rental with Shuttle Service

The Queenstown Trails E-Bike Rental with Shuttle Service is a solid choice for about $111.70. It includes a 4-hour rental, a shuttle to the trailhead, and all safety gear, with about 2.5 hours of riding time along scenic parts of the Queenstown Trails. Covering approximately 38 km from Kinross Winery to Arthurs Point, this ride shows off Arrow and Gibbston Rivers’ beauty.

The shuttle simplifies logistics, making it easy to enjoy the ride without worrying about returning to your start point. The trail itself is suitable for families and those with moderate fitness, offering views of vineyards and waterways. The inclusion of helmets and accessories ensures a safe ride, while the set pace allows for plenty of time to stop and take photos.

Reviews highlight the scenic variation and the convenience of the shuttle. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a guided feel but with independence on the trail.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a scenic, manageable ride with minimal planning, especially families and casual riders.

6. Master Cardrona Bike Park

Finally, the Master Cardrona Bike Park offers a full-day downhill adventure for around $232.71. With its location at New Zealand’s highest MTB park, it features world-class terrain and expert coaching. The day begins at 8:00 am, with chairlift-accessed trails, technical challenges, and tailored lessons on braking, body positioning, and terrain analysis.

This experience is designed for riders seeking to refine skills or challenge themselves on steep, technical courses. Even if you’re a seasoned mountain biker, the guided coaching and focus on technique help you get more out of your riding. The terrain varies from beginner-friendly jumps to advanced downhill tracks, making it suitable for a range of abilities.

Reviews emphasize the quality of coaching and the thrill of downhill riding, though the price reflects the comprehensive, professional nature of the experience. It’s best suited for serious mountain bikers or those aiming to improve their skills with expert guidance.

Bottom Line: For adrenaline junkies or serious riders, this is the ultimate downhill adventure with expert instruction.

How to Choose Your Perfect South Island Bike Tour

Picking the right ride depends on your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after a gentle, scenic cruise that’s easy to manage, the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire is a standout for its flexibility and inclusiveness. For a more active day with mountain biking, Arrowtown Mountain Bike Hire offers a family-friendly, no-fuss experience.

Travelers with limited time or those wanting a guided experience with high-quality gear should consider the E-Bike Hire with Shuttle from Queenstown, while those wanting total independence might prefer the Bike Hire with Return Transport. For a scenic, moderate ride, the Queenstown Trails E-Bike Rental fits well. Serious mountain bikers aiming for technical challenges should look at the Master Cardrona Bike Park.

Book early, especially during peak season (summer months), to ensure availability and the best equipment. Also, consider your fitness level and experience—electric bikes make a big difference if hills are a concern.

Final Thoughts

South Island offers a remarkable variety of bike tours that cater to all levels of riders. For relaxed, scenic riding, the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire provides a flexible, enjoyable experience. If mountain biking is more your style, the Cardrona Bike Park is the ultimate adrenaline fix, especially with its expert coaching.

No matter your choice, cycling in South Island gives you a fantastic way to see New Zealand’s stunning landscapes up close and personal. Plan ahead, pick the option that best fits your style, and enjoy pedaling through one of the world’s most spectacular regions.