The Best Gran Fondos in New Zealand 2023

Founder, Mr. Mamil
Updated:

New Zealand is a cyclist’s paradise, with its picturesque landscapes and challenging terrain. 

Whether you’re a new or experienced cyclist, there’s a Gran Fondo for everyone in this beautiful country. From the rugged mountains of the South Island to the rolling hills of the North Island, these events will test your endurance and reward you with breathtaking views.

A gran fondo is a long-distance, mass-participation cycling event that typically covers distances of 100 to 200km. These events are not only challenging but also a great way to explore the country and experience the local culture. 

This article lists all the Gran Fondos in New Zealand.

DateGran FondoLocationDistances
7 Jan 2023Lake Dunstan Cycle ChallengeCromwell96km
14 Jan 2023Pedal Project Wellington Gran FondoMiramar11, 30, 50, 80km
21 Jan 2023Gravel and TarFeilding164km
29 Jan 2023Bays Cycle ChallengeChristchurch70km
11 Feb 2023New Zealand Gran FondoWaipa18, 67, 103km
16 Feb 2023Charity Bike RideTimaru365km
18 Feb 2023Milford Mountain ClassicMilford65, 100, 120km
11 Mar 2023K2 Road Cycle ClassicWhitianga43, 86, 192km
12 Mar 2023Counties Cycle Classic CriteriumPukekoke22.5, 42, 52, 97km
16 Mar 2023BDO Tour of the NorthlandWhangarei359km, 4 days
18 Mar 2023Le RaceChristchurch100km
10 Apr 2023Tour of New ZealandArthurs Pass500km
22 Apr 2023Forrest GrapeRideMarlborough42, 101, 202, 505km
6 May 2023Around Brunner Cycle RideGreymouth130, 260km
8 Oct 2023Lake Wairarapa Cycle ChallengeWairarapa64, 80km
14 Oct 2023Motu ChallengeOpotiki65, 95km
17 Nov 20235 Passes TourChristchurch600km
24 Nov 2023Edition Zero GravelWaimate80, 137, 242km
25 Nov 2023Lake Taupo Cycle ChallengeTaupo80, 160km
List of Gran Fondos in New Zealand
Alex Lee at Mr.Mamil

Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.

He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.