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New data shows New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides are contributing $1.28 billion a year to regional economies, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.
The 2025 evaluation report for the Great Rides of New Zealand – Ngā Haerenga shows visitor spending attributed to the trails increased 35 per cent for the year ending June 2025 compared with the same period in 2021.
“This is a significant boost for our local tourism market. Riders are spending more on accommodation, food and hospitality, which is great news for local businesses and jobs,” Upston says.
Visitor nights in nearby accommodation reached 4.5 million in the year ending June 2025, up 25 per cent on 2021 figures.
“Since being set up by Sir John Key’s National-led Government in 2009, these figures show the appeal of our cycle trails continuing to grow and the real economic benefits they bring to regional communities.
“Higher spending on accommodation and hospitality goes hand in hand with more people using the trails. We’ve seen more than 2.5 million trips recorded for the year ending June 2025, up 18 per cent on 2021 figures.”
The Government contributes $8 million a year from the International Visitor Levy to the 23 Great Rides, which showcase New Zealand’s landscapes, history and culture.
Alongside this annual funding, recent investment has been made in cycle trail infrastructure in Ruapehu and Dunedin, with additional work planned.
“This data shows our Great Rides are growing in popularity with both international visitors and Kiwis, and we’re committed to ensuring they continue to attract visitors and deliver significant economic benefits,” Upston says.
