Remote, rugged and breathtakingly beautiful. New Zealand’s South Island on two wheels is a must-do for any intrepid motorcycle fan.

I’ve ridden in some wild winds before, but nothing like this. I’d just swung around the bottom western edge of New Zealand’s South Island and was met with a savage squall thrown at me by a ferocious Southern Ocean. 

It was wind so fierce that slow and steady wasn’t even an option. Against my instincts, I eventually worked out that riding a smidgen over 100 km/h and getting tucked as low as I could get behind the windscreen was the best way to remain upright and with the most control amid such strong and gusty winds. I was grateful for the Southland region’s remoteness as wind blasts forced me onto the wrong side of the road. 

New Zealand’s South Island is a bucket-list destination for motorcyclists worldwide, offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes, world-class riding and a deep sense of adventure. From alpine passes to remote coastal back roads, the South Island is a rider’s playground, where every twist and turn delivers postcard-perfect views.

For those yet to experience it, touring here is an eye-opener. Weather patterns are unpredictable, distances can be deceptive, and the remoteness in some areas demands your utmost respect. But for those who come prepared, it’s as close to motorcycling nirvana as you can get.

QUEENSTOWN TO THE WEST COAST

Most international visitors start their journey in Queenstown. Known as the adventure capital of the world, the town itself is swamped with tourists, but it’s not hard to escape them. Within minutes of leaving, the road south-east along Lake Wakatipu is a taste of what’s to come. The lake’s blue waters mirror the sky, while jagged peaks rise from the shoreline. Tourist campervans can slow things down occasionally, but there’s no need to rush — this really is scenery to savour.

A must-ride from here is the route over Haast Pass. The journey west snakes through valleys and climbs into thick rainforest before spilling out onto the West Coast, where the Tasman Sea crashes against the land. This road can be challenging, especially when wet, but it’s a gripping ride. Just be prepared for sudden changes in weather, and don’t push your luck — it’s too early in proceedings to make any silly errors.

THE SOUTHERN SCENIC ROUTE

Further south, the Southern Scenic Route offers one of the most satisfying stretches of riding in the country. Running between Queenstown and Dunedin via Invercargill, this 610 km route is a feast for the senses…