Auckland Ride Guide
Auckland is built across an isthmus between two harbours and around fifty volcanic cones, so it is hillier than visitors expect. A growing network of separated cycleways links the centre, and the islands in the gulf are a ferry ride away.
Climatology
Warm temperate and humid, with no real winter — southern-hemisphere seasons, so January is summer and July is winter. Summers sit at 68-77°F and humid; winters at 48-59°F, wet and windy but almost never freezing. Rain is spread through the year with a wetter winter, and the wind off the Tasman is a constant.
Season by season
Summer
Dec-FebWarm, humid and busy. Early starts for anything long, and high UV — the sun here burns faster than the temperature suggests.
Autumn
Mar-MayOften the best riding: settled, warm and quieter than summer.
Winter
Jun-AugMild but wet and windy. Rideable year-round with a decent shell.
Spring
Sep-NovChangeable and windy. Four seasons in a day is not a figure of speech here.
Signature rides
Northwestern Cycleway
14 miSeparated path running northwest from the city centre alongside the motorway. The main commuting spine, flat and continuous.
Waiheke Island
25 miA ferry ride into the gulf, then steep rolling roads between vineyards and bays. Far hillier than it looks on a map.
Tamaki Drive waterfront
12 miFlat harbour-edge road east from the centre. Popular, scenic and fully exposed to an easterly.
Frequently asked
Is Auckland a good place to cycle?
Auckland is built across an isthmus between two harbours and around fifty volcanic cones, so it is hillier than visitors expect. A growing network of separated cycleways links the centre, and the islands in the gulf are a ferry ride away.
What is the weather like for cycling in Auckland?
Warm temperate and humid, with no real winter — southern-hemisphere seasons, so January is summer and July is winter. Summers sit at 68-77°F and humid; winters at 48-59°F, wet and windy but almost never freezing. Rain is spread through the year with a wetter winter, and the wind off the Tasman is a constant.
What are the best bike rides in Auckland?
Standout routes include Northwestern Cycleway (14 mi), Waiheke Island (25 mi), Tamaki Drive waterfront (12 mi).
Nearby guides
From the blog
What the 0–10 Ride Score means, which weather factors drive it, and how to use it to pick the best day and time to ride.
A temperature-by-temperature guide to dressing for cold-weather cycling — from cool 60°F mornings down to freezing rides.
Wind is the most underrated factor in cycling. Here's how to read it and plan routes so the hardest effort comes first.
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