The Miramar Peninsula/Te Motu Kairangi is some of the best riding that Wellington has to offer. It’s easy to navigate, mostly flat and absurdly beautiful with fantastic coastal views, great cafes along the route and the option to explore more along the south coast. This ride also takes you through Oriental Bay with an option to head to the summit of Mount Victoria and along the Evans Bay Cycle Way.
Wellington Waterfront- Oriental Bay- Evans Bays- Miramar Peninsula-Lyall Bay
Distance: 31km return (19.2 miles) Mainly Flat
Top Features and Spots
1. Oriental Bay
Once you’ve rented your bike from us near Chaffers Marina, a quick ride takes you to Oriental Bay, Wellington’s beloved beach just minutes from the city. A separated cycle way from just outside our shop takes you here which connects on to the Oriental Bay promenade, keeping you off the road and away from traffic. Stop for a swim with the locals and grab a locally-made gelato from Gelissimo @ Freyberg.
2. Mount Victoria
The peak of Wellington’s town belt is the best place to view our lush, green city. You’ll get a view of the harbour, the city centre and the surrounding hills. This is accessible by quiet streets and with an eBike you’ll climb to the top in no time.
3. Evans Bay Cycle Way and Hataitai
This is where your ride opens up on to a fantastic separated cycle way where you can really stretch your legs! You’ll cruise around several small bays and past more beaches allowing you to take in the sea air and spot local birdlife- if you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the worlds smallest penguin species- the Kororā/Little Blue Penguin which nests around these bays. Our favourite stop here is Uncle Leo’s French Bakery and Patisserie for some of the best pastries and coffee in Wellington.
4. Miramar Peninsula and Karaka Bays
The coastal roads of the Miramar peninsula take you away from the bustle and onto the rugged coasts of Wellington with great views back onto the city and the eastern side of the harbour. Take a left at Shelly Bay road to take the scenic, coastal route or head through the cutting next to the famous Windy Wellington into Miramar and make a stop at the Wētā Cave! Get a seaside table at Sorchorama cafe in Scorching Bay and watch the ships sail into Wellington harbour. Although this section of riding is on the road, the speed limit is low for cars and the drivers are used to cyclists in this area. Always make sure to keep to the left side of the road and return to single file riding if traffic is coming from behind.
5. Maupuia Hill
Another fantastic view point high up on the Miramar peninsula with views of the mountain ranges of the South Island on a clear day. Close by is an abandoned prison and the community run Miramar prison Gardens, which are worth a visit. The Miramar mountain bike trails also start up here.
6. Lyall Bay and the South Coast
A great spot for plane spotters and surfers! When reaching Lyall Bay from the Miramar Peninsula, you’ll ride through a tunnel beneath the airport runway. Time it right to get close to the planes for take off and landing. Lyall Bay is also home to one of the most popular eateries in Wellington, Maranui Cafe and be sure to check out Parrotdog Brewery and Bar for the best spot to enjoy a craft beer in the sun. For some riders, Lyall Bay is a good point to begin the journey back to Switched on Bikes. Jump on the Onepu Road cycle way taking you through Kilbirnie and back on to the to the Evans Bay Cycle way. Follow Onepu Road all the way until you see the big orange wind needle on the opposite side of an intersection. Rejoin the Evans Bay Cycle Way here and you’ll be on your way back
If you want to continue riding around the south coast, check out this extended ride taking you past Houghton Bay, Island Bay, Ōwhiro Bay/Pariwhero Red Rocks returning through Brooklyn and city cycle ways.
Cycling on this route
Waterfront-Oriental Bay-Evans Bay-Cobham Drive: Fully separated riding from the street. Parts of this section are shared with walkers and often dogs on leashes. Keep to a low speed around Oriental Parade during summer.
Miramar Peninsula-Lyall Bay-South Coast: On road riding. This areas aren’t particularly busy with traffic and the speed limits for cars is typically low. Always make sure you keep to the left side of the road/lane when riding on the road. If you want to stay of streets completely, there is an option to skip the Miramar peninsula and head to Lyall Bay use a mixture of separated cycle ways and on-road cycle ways. Our team are always happy to talk you through getting the best ride possible when in store.
Riding the Bays
