The roar of the engine, the wind in your hair: New Zealand by motorcycle
New Zealand by Motorcycle: A Two-Wheeled Dream Through Breathtaking Landscapes!
Hello everyone, adventure and two-wheel enthusiasts! Get ready for an epic journey that took us to the pulsating heart of New Zealand, a country that seems designed specifically for motorcycle exploration. From golden beaches to snow-capped peaks, from smoking volcanoes to deep fjords, every kilometer was a discovery. Are you ready to ride with us?
North Island: Among Geysers, Hidden Beaches, and Maori Culture
Our trip began in vibrant Auckland, the "City of Sails," where the excitement for the adventure awaiting us was palpable. After picking up our faithful two-wheeled companions, we headed towards the Coromandel Peninsula, a true coastal paradise.
In Pauanui, we let the Pacific waves lull us, enjoying the tranquility of this seaside town. But the real magic happened at Hot Water Beach: armed with spades, we dug our own natural "spa" directly in the sand—a surreal and unforgettable experience! A few kilometers away, Cathedral Cove enchanted us with its majestic rock archway opening onto a postcard-perfect beach, a true open-air film set.
Leaving the coast, we ventured inland to Rotorua, the heart of Maori culture and an area of incredible geothermal activity. Here, among fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, we got a taste of the earth's power. A visit to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley was a must, where the vibrant colors of the landscape and unique geological formations left us speechless.
Our journey on the North Island culminated in Wellington, the capital, a charming and windy city with its steep streets and cozy cafes. Here we prepared for the next big leap: the ferry to the South Island!
South Island: Scenic Roads, Imposing Glaciers, and Pure Adventure
The ferry crossing to Picton was a spectacle in itself, with the Marlborough Sounds greeting us with their coves and verdant islands. From there, we headed to Nelson, a lively and artistic city, perfect for a relaxing stop before tackling the wonders of the west coast.
The road to Punakaiki was one of the most scenic of the trip. Here, the famous Pancake Rocks left us speechless: layered rock formations that look like giant stacks of pancakes, sculpted by wind and sea. A true masterpiece of nature!
Continuing south, the landscape began to change, becoming increasingly alpine. We reached the majestic Franz Josef Glacier, a giant of ice that extends almost to the sea. The sight of this imposing glacier was a breathtaking experience that reminded us of nature's unstoppable force. The road through Haast offered us epic views, among lush forests and rushing rivers, a perfect prelude to the adrenaline that awaited us.
And speaking of adrenaline, we arrived in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world! Here the possibilities are endless: bungee jumping, jet boating, rafting... we chose to enjoy the lively atmosphere and spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu.
From Queenstown, we headed to the far south, to Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city. Here, an unmissable detour was Burt Munro's beach, a legendary place for motorcycling enthusiasts, where the mythical Burt Munro set his speed records. We also couldn't miss visiting Bluff, famous for its oysters and for the sign indicating distances to major cities around the world.
And for true motorcycle fanatics, Motorcycle Mecca in Invercargill was a must-stop: an incredible collection of vintage motorcycles that made us dream!
Our journey back north took us to Oamaru, a charming town with its Victorian architecture and blue penguin colony. Just outside Oamaru, the enigmatic Moeraki Boulders surprised us with their gigantic, perfectly round rock spheres—a fascinating geological mystery.
Finally, our incredible journey concluded in Christchurch, the "Garden City," a city in continuous rebirth, which welcomed us with its beauty and resilience.
Reflections on the Trip
This motorcycle trip to New Zealand was much more than just a series of kilometers covered. It was an experience that filled our eyes with wonder, our hearts with emotion, and our minds with unforgettable memories. New Zealand gets under your skin; it captivates you with its wild nature and welcoming people.
If you're thinking about a motorcycle trip, New Zealand should be at the top of your list. The roads are a dream for motorcyclists, the landscapes are constantly evolving, and adventure is around every bend.
Thank you for traveling with us on this incredible tour! See you on the next road!
