Just an hour north of Auckland, the Matakana Cycle Trail is one of the region’s most rewarding rides. Running from Matakana Village through to Omaha, with a side trip to Point Wells, the trail winds through a landscape that feels a world away from the city. The route is a mix of off-road shared paths, cycle lanes, and quiet roads with some gravel sections, making it best suited to confident riders. There are a couple of steep climbs along the way, but plenty of opportunities to refuel at cafés, wineries, and fresh produce roadside stalls — so you’ll never go hungry or thirsty for long. Start your journey in Matakana Village, where you can catch a film at the local cinema, grab lunch, or stock up at the bustling Saturday farmers’ market. As you ride, the trail meanders through charming farmland, lush bush, and quiet communities, with eight ceramic sculptural markers adding an artistic touch along the way. Finish up with a swim at Omaha’s white sand beach, or push on to the quiet shores of Point Wells. It’s easy to make a full day — or even a weekend — out of this ride. Bikes are available to hire locally, so all you really need to bring is a sense of adventure.