14 Top-Rated Wanaka Bike Tours

Wanaka stands out as Kiwi’s outdoor paradise, especially if you’re into cycling. The region’s mountainous landscapes, lakeside trails, and river routes make for some of New Zealand’s most memorable bike experiences. Whether you’re after an easy family ride or a challenging trail with epic views, Wanaka has a lot to offer. We particularly enjoy the Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails experience, with its mix of family-friendly routes and stunning scenery, and the e-bike tour Lake Hawea River Track to Wanaka for its combination of leisurely riding and spectacular vistas. If you’re into wine, the e-bike wine tasting tour offers a relaxing way to combine cycling with tasting Wanaka’s best vintages. For a more comprehensive adventure, the Bike the Dunstan Trail offers a full-day exploration with support and stunning scenery. Below, we’ve rounded up the best options, each with its own unique appeal.

Quick Overview

Wanaka’s bike tours span from short guided rides to full-day adventures. Some focus on family-friendly, easy trails along lakes and rivers, like Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails, while others offer e-bike excursions through scenic tracks, such as Lake Hawea River Track to Wanaka. For those looking to combine cycling with wine, the Dunstan wine tasting is perfect. More ambitious cyclists can try the Dunstan Trail for a full-day, supported experience. Lastly, family groups and beginners will appreciate the Wanaka Easy Ebike Tour, which makes biking accessible and fun for all ages.

1. Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails

At number 1, this bike hire package offers a flexible way to explore Wanaka’s renowned trails. You’ll receive a helmet, trunk bag, bike lock, and pump with your hire, and a return shuttle ensures easy logistics. The trails are grade one and two family-friendly routes that wind past mountain plateaus, lakes, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You can choose between standard bikes or e-bikes to extend your reach. Customers consistently praise the beautiful scenery, with reviews highlighting the well-marked paths and friendly service. The recommended coffee stops and picnic spots add to the experience, making it a perfect half-day outing.

This tour is ideal for families, casual riders, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic ride without the hassle. The value for money is excellent, given the gear, shuttle, and flexibility. The main downside is that some riders found the navigation a little tricky despite the provided map, so a good sense of direction helps.

Bottom line: A fantastic, flexible choice for those who want to explore Wanaka’s top trails at their own pace.

2. Wānaka And Hāwea: Trail Ride on Bike or E-Bike

Ranked just shy of perfect with a 4.9/5 rating, this ride offers a family-friendly adventure along the river trails connecting Hāwea and Wanaka. Starting from 103 Ardmore Street, you’ll be transported to Lake Hāwea, where you’ll begin your leisurely cruise along flat, well-maintained paths. The route follows local trails and rivers, with no roads to worry about—just pure trail riding. During the 2.5-hour self-guided tour, you’ll enjoy views of the Hāwea and Clutha rivers, with a break at Pembroke Patisserie for a well-earned coffee. The support team is on hand if needed, ensuring a smooth trip.

This tour is especially suited for families or beginners seeking an accessible yet scenic ride. The quality of bikes and the support make it a stress-free experience. One review notes, “Mark did a great job…plenty of scenery and helpful tips,” emphasizing how well-organized and enjoyable this trip is.

Bottom line: Perfect for a relaxed, scenic ride with support, suitable for all ages and skill levels.

3. ebike tour Lake Hawea River Track to Wanaka

This 5-star rated tour offers what many consider the best one-day bike ride in New Zealand. Combining three different tracks, the journey takes you along scenic riverside paths, with stunning views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains. The leisurely ride is designed with gentle terrain, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The supportive guides will pick you up from your accommodation, then take you on a 15-minute drive to start your adventure. Along the way, you’ll see the Hawea Whitewater Park, renowned for its surfing waves and whitewater kayaking.

Reviewers rave about the strong motors and long-lasting batteries of the e-bikes, and the beautiful scenery they encountered. The flexibility of starting times—9 am, 11 am, or 2 pm—adds convenience.

Bottom line: A leisurely yet scenic e-bike adventure showcasing Wanaka’s natural beauty, perfect for a full day of exploration with minimal effort.

4. ebike tour Lake Dunstan Wine Tasting

Topping the list as a 6-hour guided experience, this e-bike wine tour combines cycling, wine tasting, and relaxation. You’ll be picked up from your hotel for a brief orientation, then set off on a flat, wide trail suitable for beginners. The ride winds through vineyards and scenic vistas, with visits to local wineries to sample the region’s best wines. The tour is not guided but offers plenty of support, with a full safety kit and spare bike. The focus on food and drink makes it ideal for those wanting a leisurely day blending outdoor activity and gastronomy.

While the reviews are limited, the professional organization and high-quality bikes ensure a smooth experience. The value for money lies in the combination of cycling and wine, making it a great choice for wine lovers or anyone seeking a relaxed yet immersive experience.

Bottom line: A delightful mix of cycling and wine tasting, perfect for a mellow day out with plenty of tastings and scenic views.

5. Wānaka: Gladstone Track and Wanaka Trails on Bike or eBike

Rated 4.9 out of 5, this half-day tour takes you from Wānaka to Hāwea and back. Starting with a shuttle to Hāwea, you’ll cycle along the Gladstone Track, which runs along the lakefront of Hāwea, then follow river trails back to Wānaka. The route features well-maintained bikes and support during the ride, making it suitable for all levels. The trail’s recent completion enhances the scenery, with lake views and lush riverbanks. The included stop at Pembroke Patisserie is highly recommended for a snack.

This trip offers a good mix of lakeside scenery and riverside tracks, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Wanaka’s diverse landscape without too much effort. Reviewers appreciate the friendly service and quality bikes.

Bottom line: An excellent, scenic ride for anyone wanting to explore Wanaka’s lakeside and river trails with ease.

6. From Wanaka – Bike the Dunstan Trail with shuttle return

This 7-hour guided ride is for serious cyclists looking for a full-day challenge. Starting with a shuttle from Wanaka to Cromwell, you’ll ride the famous Dunstan Trail, exploring historic Clyde and the engineering marvel of the trail itself. The Sinch e-bikes or Specialized bikes make the ride comfortable, and support is available if needed. The ride is self-guided but includes support and detailed route info. As part of an Official NZ Great Ride, it’s recognized for quality and scenery, with views of the mountains, historic towns, and the Otago region.

Guests love the immense sense of achievement and breathtaking scenery. The full-day format is best suited for active travelers with decent fitness levels.

Bottom line: A rewarding, scenic route for cyclists wanting a blend of history, engineering, and mountain vistas.

7. Wanaka Easy Ebike Tour

Perfect for families or casual riders, this 2.5-hour guided tour takes you along a gentle river trail with spectacular views. The focus is on easy riding, so no need for advanced skills. All equipment, bikes, and helmets are provided, and afternoon tea is included—what better way to unwind? The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the route is designed to be enjoyable for all ages.

Reviewers mention how stress-free and scenic the experience is, making it an ideal introduction to Wanaka’s outdoors. This tour is best suited for families, seniors, or anyone wanting a light experience.

Bottom line: An easy, scenic, and relaxing way to experience Wanaka’s natural beauty with plenty of comfort.

8. Private E-Bike Wine Tour in Wanaka

At number 8, this private tour offers an intimate experience blending Māori history with local wines. Embracing environmental protection, the tour combines cultural insights with tastings at Wanaka’s finest wineries. The 3.5-hour trip is tailor-made for small groups, with plenty of time for learning and tasting. The e-bikes make the ride manageable, even on slightly hilly terrain, and the guide shares stories about the region’s history and wines.

While only four reviews are available, all praise the professional organization and the authentic cultural experience. This tour is best suited for wine lovers interested in local culture and those seeking a personalized, upscale experience.

Bottom line: An immersive, cultural wine experience perfect for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, private outing.

9. Riverside Electric Bike Tour

This 3.5-hour guided ride follows the powerful rivers of Wanaka, offering varied terrain and gorgeous vistas. Riders should have moderate fitness and experience riding on loose sand and gravel. The route is 12 km long, making it a moderate challenge with plenty of opportunities for photos along the way. The electric bikes assist on hills, making the ride accessible for most fitness levels, but you’ll still get a good workout.

The beautiful river scenery and photo stops are highlights, making it suitable for nature lovers and those who appreciate exercise with a view. One reviewer said, “Varied riding and beautiful vistas made it a must-do trip.”

Bottom line: A scenic, moderate ride ideal for those wanting a bit of adventure and river views.

10. Wanaka Breweries E-Bike Tour

For beer lovers, this self-guided e-bike tour offers a 4- to 9-hour exploration of Wanaka’s craft brewery scene. You’ll visit top breweries, sampling delicious beers and food pairings along the way. The route includes the Hawea River Track and other scenic paths. The e-bikes make it easy to cover multiple stops without exhaustion. This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed day combining cycling and tasting local brews.

While reviews are limited, the quality bikes and personalized experience ensure a smooth trip. It’s a fun way to experience Wanaka’s vibrant craft scene at your own pace.

Bottom line: Perfect for beer enthusiasts seeking a leisurely, self-guided ride through Wanaka’s breweries.

11. From Wanaka: Lake Dunstan Trail E-Bike Hire & Shuttle

This 8-hour supported day trip lets you ride the Lake Dunstan Trail, renowned as an Official NZ Great Ride. Starting with a shuttle from Wanaka, you’ll explore Cromwell and Clyde, with plenty of time to appreciate the mountain views, historic sites, and engineering feats of the trail. The e-bikes and support team ensure a comfortable ride, even over the cliff-hugging sections. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and smooth logistics. It’s well-suited for cyclists who want a full-day, supported adventure with minimal hassle.

Bottom line: A scenic, well-supported ride for those wanting a comprehensive day of riding and sightseeing.

12. From Wanaka: Lake Dunstan Trail E-Bike Hire & Shuttle

Offering around 5 hours of riding, this guided e-bike experience makes exploring Lake Dunstan straightforward. You’ll ride along cliff-side paths, lakeside sections, and stop at local cafes including the floating café or burger barge. The support and gear are included, making it accessible for most skill levels. This route is ideal for those wanting a shorter but scenic adventure that combines nature and food stops.

Reviewers appreciate the spectacular views and ease of riding. It’s a great option for travelers wanting a half-day outing with impressive scenery and culinary stops.

Bottom line: A short but scenic ride with options for food and great views.

13. Wanaka: E-Bike Ride, Wine Tour, and Lunch Combo

This full-day experience combines a scenic e-bike ride with visits to three top wineries, finishing with a 3-course barrel-cooked lunch. The route includes stunning views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains. The e-bikes make cycling manageable, and the wine tastings are tailored for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Guests rave about the quality of the wines and the delicious lunch. It’s a fantastic way to indulge in both outdoor activity and gourmet food.

This tour is perfect for wine lovers or anyone wanting an excursion that combines outdoor scenery and culinary delights. The value is high, considering the multiple winery visits and the included meal.

Bottom line: A luxurious, full-day experience for those wanting to combine cycling, wine tasting, and fine dining.

14. Wanaka – Private Family Bike Tour Experience

Tailored for families, this private, customizable tour accommodates up to 11 e-bikes. You choose your preferred trail—whether it’s Queenstown Trails, Lake Dunstan, or Roxburgh Gorge—and your guide takes care of logistics. The 6 to 8-hour day is flexible, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience. The focus is on fun, safety, and scenic views, making it ideal for family groups with varied ages and abilities. Reviews are yet to be shared, but the emphasis on customization and professional hosting makes it promising.

Bottom line: The best choice for families wanting a private, flexible, and memorable biking experience tailored to their interests.

How to Choose the Perfect Wanaka Bike Tour

Choosing the right bike tour depends on your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you’re after a flexible, self-guided adventure, the Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails or Gladstone Track tour are excellent options. For a full-day challenge, the Dunstan Trail offers spectacular scenery and a sense of achievement. If you prefer a mix of wine and cycling, the Lake Dunstan wine tasting provides a relaxing experience with gourmet tastings.

For families or casual riders, the Wanaka Easy Ebike Tour and private family options are best suited. And if you’re into craft beer, the Wanaka Breweries E-Bike Tour combines cycling with local brews.

Remember to consider your fitness, interest in wine or beer, and how much time you want to spend cycling. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

In Wanaka, cycling options run from light, scenic rides to full-day supported adventures. Families or beginners might love the Wanaka Easy Ebike Tour, while serious cyclists will appreciate the Dunstan Trail. For those seeking a relaxing, gourmet experience, the wine tasting e-bike tour is ideal. No matter your style, Wanaka’s trails promise breathtaking scenery and memorable rides. Be sure to book ahead — these tours fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Now, pick your adventure and get pedaling!