Explore Akaroa’s hidden gems your own way
Read on to learn what to expect from your Akaroa Beach Trail adventure.
Your self-guided day of discovery starts here
Your adventure begins 18km from Akaroa with spectacular views of the crater rim. On a clear day, the views stretch more than 100km across the Pacific to the Kaikōura mountains. From there, the trail winds along quiet country roads to three stunning beaches, each separated by rolling hills and dramatic cliffs.
This is your day to explore, and your trail map highlights all the best stops along the way. Here are some of our favourite stops:
➞ The national taonga Māori collection at the Ōnuku/Okains Bay Museum
➞ Okains Bay Store for a milkshake or coffee (excellent trail fuel!)
➞ Hinewai Reserve’s many hiking trails - we love the walk to Stoney Bay Peak (1 hour 30 mins return)
➞ Takamatua Valley Wines to sample eight organic, locally-grown wines – you can even pick up a bottle for your evening back in Akaroa!
The trail is 60km and the scooters have an upper speed limit of 50km/hr (for safety). Riding time for the whole trail is around 1 hour 40 minutes. This gives you 5 hours for your chosen activities along the trail. Choose your own adventure!
A rough guide to your trail itinerary
9:30am – Pick up
We pick you up from your accommodation in Akaroa and take you to the start of the trail.
10:00am – Instructions and safety briefing
We explain safe riding practice to ensure you are comfortable on the bikes and take you through the maps, explaining the route and options for stops. After that it’s your day your way.
5:00pm – Scooter collection
We collect the scooters from your accommodation in Akaroa – too easy!
What to bring
To keep your day safe and comfortable, make sure you’ve got:
Confidence riding a regular pedal bike
A full driver’s licence (NZ or international)
Enclosed footwear or walking shoes
A windbreaker jacket and a warm layer (weather can change!)
Water and snacks
for the day
Swimwear and a towel (optional – but we recommend it!)
Adventure, freedom, nature – all on two wheels.
Escape the ordinary and discover Akaroa’s breathtaking east coast on our all-wheel drive electric scooters. Your day, your pace, your adventure.
Epic views
Enjoy panoramic ocean views as you cruise down the crater rim on quiet back roads and trails.
Coastal bliss
Discover quiet underrated beaches. Swim in the surf of the Pacific Ocean and relax on pristine white sand.
Personal picnic lunch
Every scooter rental pair includes your own picnic set complete with blanket, utensils and ice pack. Bring your own lunch or let us craft a local food lunch for you.
Hidden gems
Our self-guided trail map takes you off the beaten track for a unique tour of Akaroa that introduces you to a charming museum, scenic bush trails, a local vineyard, and so much more!
Book now to lock in your Akaroa adventure
We’ve got a limited fleet of scooters and once they’re booked, they’re booked for the whole day. If you’ve got your eye on a rental, we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment.
Worried about the weather? We guarantee a full refund for high wind or rain.
UBCO electric motor scooters: built for a smooth, safe ride
Our all-wheel-drive electric scooters are quiet, eco-friendly, and packed with safety features including:
➞ Hydraulic brakes with automatic descent control
➞ Wide tyres for better grip and stability
➞ Rechargeable battery braking system
➞ Full helmet provided
You don’t need a motorcycle licence – just a full car licence and confidence riding a regular bike.
Before you get on your way, we’ll provide personalised training until you feel confident (no extra cost). We want you to feel totally comfortable, so we give you all the time you need at the start. If you’re not feeling it, no pressure – give us a call any time and we’ll get you back to Akaroa safely.
The fine print
Damage insurance with no surprises
There is an excess of $500 for accidental damage to the scooter that the rider is liable for. Accidental damage above that level is covered by our insurance and is included in the tour price. Many guests will be covered for the excess by their travel insurance / credit card.
Support while on the trail
We are available by phone and can meet you within 20 minutes or so at any point on the trail (scooters have GPS tracking). We do not charge for any support and will happily pick you up at any point and return you by car to your accommodation early.
Cancellation policy
There is a full refund for cancellation more than 7 days in advance of the trail date booked. Cancellation within 7 days of trail date will be refunded only if subsequently booked by another guest.
Medical insurance
New Zealand has comprehensive medical insurance in the event of an accident, known as ACC. This cover includes all tourists.
Weather guarantee
It’s no fun in bad weather on two wheels. We can’t guarantee the weather on your day but we do guarantee a full refund for high wind or rain.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take side trips?
Yes, as long as you stay on public roads. You’ve got up to 120km range and the trail itself is only 60km. Just make sure you return the scooter to your accommodation by 5pm.
Is it safe to swim at the beaches?
The beaches are all sheltered, have gradual increasing depth and are generally very safe for confident swimmers. There are no lifeguards, though, so swim at your own discretion.
Can I carry a passenger or child?
No, scooters are strictly one rider per vehicle, and all riders must hold a car licence.
Can I go off-road or use bike tracks?
No, scooters are insured for public road use only. Off-road riding isn’t allowed and would make you liable for full damages.
Is the scooter covered by damage insurance?
There is an excess of $500 for accidental damage to the scooter that the rider is liable for. Accidental damage above that level is covered by our insurance and is included in the tour price. Many guests will be covered for the excess by their travel insurance / credit card.
Am I covered by medical insurance if I have an accident?
New Zealand has comprehensive medical insurance in the event of an accident, known as ACC. This cover includes all tourists.
Your adventure starts here
Our quiet, eco-friendly scooters make a day of coastal exploration fun and effortless. If you’re confident riding a bike and hold a valid car licence, you’re good to go.
Akaroa Beach Trail spots are limited - book early to secure your adventure!
