Bike Hire and Shuttles in Arrowtown for Campervan Travellers
Quick summary: Campervan travellers don’t need to bring bikes to ride the trails around Arrowtown. Hire shops in the village rent bikes and e-bikes with helmets, locks and maps, and many include a shuttle to bring you back from the end of a one-way ride to Gibbston or Queenstown. It’s usually simpler than fitting a bike rack to a campervan or motorhome, and it means the vehicle stays parked while you ride.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Where | Bike hire shops in Arrowtown, a short walk from the holiday park |
| Bikes | Comfort bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes and children’s bikes |
| Usually included | Helmet, lock, map and repair kit |
| Shuttles | Back from the Kawarau bridge, Gibbston or Queenstown |
| Bike racks | Available on some campervans; ask when you book |
| Tours | Bike hire |
Compare campervan and motorhome hire in Queenstown
What can you hire in Arrowtown?
- Comfort and hybrid bikes, for the easy sections of the Queenstown Trail.
- E-bikes, which make the climbs easy and are the most popular choice.
- Mountain bikes and e-MTBs, for the hills and backcountry.
- Children’s bikes, tag-alongs and trailers, for families.
Helmets, locks, maps and repair kits are usually included. Browse bike hire.
How do shuttles work?
Many hire operators offer a shuttle, sometimes included in the price, that collects you and the bikes from an agreed point, such as the Kawarau bridge, a Gibbston winery or Queenstown, and brings you back to Arrowtown. Book the shuttle time when you collect your bikes, and allow some flexibility in case you want to linger at a winery.
Is it better to hire bikes or put a rack on the RV?
For most travellers, hiring is easier. Bike racks are available on some campervans and motorhomes, but they add length to the vehicle, can make parking harder, and need secure storage overnight. Hiring locally gives you the right bike for the trail, includes shuttles and maintenance, and leaves you free to pick up a bike only on the days you ride. If you’d like your own bikes for a longer trip, ask about racks when you book the vehicle.
How far ahead should you book?
In summer, autumn and on weekends, book bikes and shuttles a day or two in advance, especially e-bikes, which are in high demand. At quieter times, you can often hire on the day.
What should you check before riding?
- The bike fits you, with the seat at the right height.
- The brakes and gears work, and you know how to use an e-bike’s controls.
- You have a map, and know the shuttle pickup point and time.
- You’re carrying water, snacks and a jacket.
What about guided rides?
If you’d rather not plan the route, guided bike tours, e-bike tours and bike and wine tours include bikes, guides and transport.
Compare campervan and motorhome hire in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. E-bikes are widely available in Arrowtown and are the most popular choice for the Queenstown Trail.
Many do, collecting you from the Kawarau bridge, Gibbston or Queenstown and bringing you back to Arrowtown.
Usually a helmet, lock, map and repair kit.
Some campervans and motorhomes can carry a rack. Ask when you book the vehicle.
In busy periods, book a day or two ahead, especially for e-bikes.