Across New Zealand, a growing number of Kiwis are rethinking how they get around. As urban congestion increases and awareness around sustainability deepens, bikes are gaining ground as a practical, affordable, and enjoyable alternative to cars. What was once seen as purely recreational is now becoming a central part of how many people commute, travel, and unwind.
From students cycling to university in Wellington to families loading their bikes for weekend getaways in Rotorua, there’s a noticeable cultural shift in motion. And with infrastructure catching up—more protected bike lanes, expanded trail networks, and integrated public transport options—this transition is becoming easier and safer for everyday riders. For those looking to explore further afield, vertical bike racks are proving essential for transporting multiple bikes securely and efficiently using a vehicle’s towbar, especially for weekend trail missions or holiday adventures.
Why Are More Kiwis Ditching the Car?
There are several factors fuelling this bike-first movement. One of the biggest is cost. With the price of fuel remaining high and vehicle maintenance eating into monthly budgets, many households are reconsidering the value of car ownership—especially when alternative transport options are available.
For city dwellers in particular, cycling has become one of the fastest and most reliable ways to get around. Commuters in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington are increasingly choosing two wheels over four, avoiding traffic, parking fees, and public transport delays. E-bikes have only added to this momentum, making hills and longer distances more manageable for riders of all ages and fitness levels.
Environmental awareness is another major driver. Kiwis are known for their love of the outdoors, and reducing carbon emissions is top of mind for many. Choosing a bike over a car for short trips is a simple way to cut one’s footprint without sacrificing convenience.
The Rise of Active Transport in Cities
Urban planning is evolving across Aotearoa to support the rise in cycling. Cities are adding more separated cycle lanes, redesigning intersections to improve safety for riders, and integrating cycling into broader transport plans. Wellington’s commitment to a city-wide cycleway network and Auckland’s Urban Cycleways Programme are just two examples of how councils are making it easier to ride.
Beyond infrastructure, programmes like bike-to-school days, cycling skills courses, and workplace riding incentives are making a difference. Many employers now offer secure bike parking, showers, and lockers, making cycling a more viable option for daily commuters.
These changes are also creating ripple effects: as more people cycle, the roads become safer for cyclists, encouraging even more uptake. The growing visibility of bikes in cities also helps normalise cycling culture, reducing stigma and making it feel like a mainstream choice rather than a niche lifestyle.
Bikes Beyond the Commute: Leisure, Sport, and Travel
While urban commuting is a major factor, many Kiwis are also choosing bikes for leisure and travel. The country is home to some of the most scenic cycling trails in the world—from the Otago Central Rail Trail to the Great Lake Trail in Taupō. These routes are drawing not just local riders, but international visitors as well.
Families are making weekend biking part of their regular routine. For many, it’s a chance to bond, get fresh air, and discover new corners of the country. With cycling holidays on the rise, entire itineraries are now built around trail riding, local cafés, and boutique accommodation along the way.
Mountain biking, too, continues to grow in popularity, with hubs like Rotorua, Queenstown, and Nelson attracting riders from across the country. Investment in purpose-built parks and trail systems has helped turn cycling into one of New Zealand’s leading recreational activities.
Gear and Accessibility
Today’s bikes are more versatile and accessible than ever. The rise of e-bikes has democratised riding, enabling older adults, commuters, and people with different fitness levels to participate. Cargo bikes, capable of transporting groceries or even children, are becoming a familiar sight in urban areas.
With the right accessories, cycling can be a year-round activity. Weatherproof clothing, pannier bags, and lights have made it possible to ride in a variety of conditions. And as mentioned earlier, vertical bike racks have become invaluable for transporting multiple bikes easily—ideal for families or groups heading out on weekend getaways. These racks allow for efficient loading, reduce clutter inside the vehicle, and ensure bikes arrive safely wherever the trail starts.
The Mental Health and Lifestyle Factor
Beyond the physical and environmental benefits, cycling has proven mental health perks. Studies have shown that even short bike rides can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive function. For many Kiwis, riding offers a break from screens and schedules—a chance to move at their own pace and reconnect with their surroundings.
Cycling also fosters a greater sense of community. Riders often form informal groups, share trail tips, or stop to chat at cafés and bike-friendly rest stops. These small moments of connection add up, contributing to a stronger, more socially engaged neighbourhood culture.
Challenges Still to Address
While momentum is strong, there are still barriers to making cycling fully mainstream. Safety remains a concern, particularly on roads without dedicated bike lanes. Ongoing investment in infrastructure and driver education is needed to build confidence among new or hesitant riders.
Accessibility can also be an issue in more rural or car-dependent areas where distances are greater and cycling paths are limited. Continued focus on regional connectivity will be important for making bikes a viable transport option beyond major cities.
Cost is another consideration—while cycling is generally cheaper than owning a car, the upfront price of a quality bike, accessories, and storage solutions can be a hurdle for some households. Supporting second-hand markets, bike libraries, and community workshops can help close that gap.
Looking Ahead: A More Bike-Friendly Aotearoa
As we move further into 2025, the evidence is clear: New Zealand is cycling more, and for good reason. The shift isn’t just about transport—it’s about a broader movement toward healthier, more connected, and more sustainable communities.
Whether it’s navigating city streets, cruising through scenic trails, or loading up the family bikes for a weekend in the hills, riding is becoming a way of life for more and more Kiwis. With continued support from local councils, investment in infrastructure, and growing public enthusiasm, the future of cycling in Aotearoa looks bright.
So the next time you’re stuck in traffic or looking for a weekend plan, consider reaching for your helmet. You might just find that the bike offers more than a way to get from point A to B—it offers a whole new way to experience the ride.
