The best road cycling routes around Wellington

Wellington's road cycling routes offer diverse terrain, from forested hills and rugged coastlines to the challenging Remutaka Range. Many routes feature hilly sections and significant climbs, rewarding cyclists with expansive views across the region. You'll find a mix of urban areas, plains, and dramatic coastal roads.

Yes, Wellington offers routes for various ability levels, including easier options. For example, the St. Peter's Church – St Peter’s Church loop from Wellington is an easy 22.5 km route with moderate elevation gain, perfect for a more relaxed ride. Another easy option is the View of The Wrekin – River Tern Weir and Lock loop from Wellington, covering about 34.8 km.

Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find plenty of hilly terrain and significant climbs. The View of the Iron Bridge – Asterton Bank Climb loop from Wellington is a difficult 111.8 km route with substantial elevation gain, offering a demanding ride through the region's landscape. The Remutaka Range also provides challenging sections for those seeking longer, more arduous journeys.

The Remutaka Cycle Trail is a 122-kilometer 'Great Ride' that connects Wellington to the Wairarapa region. While it passes through varied terrain including urban areas, plains, and rugged coastlines, sections of the trail, particularly those through the Remutaka Range, may be more suited to hybrid or touring bikes due to varied surfaces. However, many road cyclists enjoy sections of the trail, especially the sealed or well-maintained parts.

Wellington's hilly terrain often leads to rewarding viewpoints. Many routes offer expansive views across the entire Wellington region, and on clear days, you might even catch glimpses of the South Island. Coastal routes provide spectacular views of the Tasman Sea, especially along the Kāpiti Coast. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass by The Wrekin Hillfort or Wellington Rotary Toposcope on the Wrekin.

Yes, Wellington's routes often pass by or near significant natural and man-made landmarks. You can explore areas like the The Ercall Bluebell Woods for natural beauty. Other notable points include The Wrekin summit and the Needle's Eye, The Wrekin. The Wellington Botanic Garden also offers a scenic loop with specialized plant collections and city views.

Wellington offers year-round cycling opportunities, but the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (October to April) are generally considered the best. During this period, you'll experience more stable weather conditions, ideal for enjoying the region's diverse landscapes and coastal rides. However, Wellington's weather can be changeable, so it's always wise to check forecasts.

Wellington has a comprehensive public transport network, including buses and trains, which can help you access various cycling routes. Many services are bike-friendly, especially trains, allowing you to transport your bike to starting points further afield. For detailed information on carrying bikes on public transport, it's best to consult the official Greater Wellington Regional Council transport website: gw.govt.nz.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Wellington are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular River Tern Weir and Lock – Tower House loop from Wellington, a moderate 53.2 km ride, and the View of The Wrekin – View of the Iron Bridge loop from Wellington, which is 53.5 km. These loops offer varied scenery and are convenient for planning your ride.

The road cycling experience in Wellington is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from challenging hilly terrain with expansive views to scenic coastal rides. The immediate access to nature from the city center and the variety of routes catering to different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads and designated cycle trails in Wellington. However, for certain private lands or specific events, permits might be necessary. It's always advisable to check local regulations for any specific trail you plan to ride, especially if it enters regional parks or protected areas. For general cycling information, refer to the Greater Wellington Regional Council website.