Nothing can match the freedom of touring New Zealand on the open road.

Enjoy the buzz of barrelling along in fresh cool air, with the hum of tyres on tarmac, while observing the countryside. When the tar seal gives way to gravel or even clay and sand, you still have freedom to ride.

Motorcycle touring is the simplest way to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer. You only need a map, sleeping bag, pannier load of gear and a free-spirited sense of adventure. Thousands of avid bikers circumnavigate New Zealand each year exploring the highways and byways and really getting acquainted with genuine Kiwis in communities well off the main tourist circuit.

Motorcycles can be rented from some Auckland and Christchurch bike shops or bought outright on a buy-back scheme. Expect to pay $1500-2000 for a reliable second-hand road bike. Alternatively you can join a group tour package. There is a range of packages available; luxury, budget, self-guided and specialist off-road tours, as well as women’s tours and Harley Davidson tours.

For self-guided tours you can find first-class camping grounds at virtually every main town and coastal settlement throughout the country. Youth hostels, motels, hotels, farm stays, home stays and bed and breakfast places are available just about everywhere.

So bring your international driving permit or full motorcycle licence and enjoy the buzz of cruising the open road. It doesn’t get any better than this.