Queenstown: E-Bike Wine Trail & Shuttle from Hotel

Summary

Queenstown e-bike ride, local wine stops, shuttle return included

You’ll glide along Queenstown’s scenic trails by e-bike after hotel pickup, pause for wine tastings in Gibbston or Arrowtown (no rush), and end your day with an easy shuttle back—muddy shoes welcome. Expect gentle hills made effortless by French-made bikes and friendly locals who make sure you never feel lost or rushed.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the faint hum of tires on gravel as we left Arrowtown — not that old squeaky bike sound, but something smoother, almost like a cat purring under you. Our guide, Jamie, handed out helmets with a grin and said, “Don’t worry about the hills — these Moustache e-bikes will do most of the work.” He wasn’t kidding. I barely broke a sweat even though the Otago sun was already warming my arms. There was this sharp scent of pine mixed with something sweet from the wildflowers along the trail. We’d only just started but I felt that little buzz you get when you know you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

I kept falling behind because I wanted to stop for photos every few minutes — light bouncing off the river, those old bridges looking like they belonged in a storybook. At one point, Jamie pointed out a spot where locals sometimes swim in summer. I hadn’t packed my swimsuit (next time), but just dipping my hand in that icy water woke me up more than coffee ever could. The ride itself is easy; honestly, if you can ride any bike at all, you’ll be fine on this e-bike tour from Queenstown to Gibbston. There were moments when it went so quiet except for birds and our tires crunching that I almost forgot we were headed for wine at all.

We reached one of the wineries around noon—can’t remember if it was Mt Rosa or another—where someone behind the counter laughed at my attempt to pronounce “Pinot Noir” with a Kiwi accent (I don’t think I’ll ever nail it). Tasting wine after riding feels different somehow; maybe it’s just being outside or maybe it’s knowing there’s a shuttle waiting so nobody has to worry about driving back. Lunch was simple but good — bread still warm from the oven and local cheese that actually tasted like something (not like supermarket stuff). On the way back, legs pleasantly tired, we piled into the van with muddy shoes and half-finished conversations about which bottle we’d take home. The whole thing felt less like a tour and more like borrowing someone else’s backyard for a day — which is probably why I keep thinking about it whenever I see mountain bikes now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — E-bike ride and winery shuttle

• Shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown
• Receive helmet and e-bike fitting
• Review trail map and instructions
• Ride Arrow River Bridges Trail
• Explore Gibbston Wine Region
• Sample award-winning Pinot Noir
• Return ride to Arrowtown
• Shuttle back to Queenstown accommodation

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Queenstown e-bike tour?

Yes, round-trip shuttle service from your Queenstown accommodation is included.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist for this e-bike ride?

No, basic cycling ability is enough; e-bikes make hills easy for all fitness levels.

Can I bring children or infants on this winery bike tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and small children can use prams or strollers.

Are helmets provided with the e-bike hire?

Yes, helmets are provided along with your e-bike rental.

What should I bring for the day trip from Queenstown?

Bring sunscreen, water, camera, and swimwear in summer; gloves and a warm jacket in winter.

Is there support available if I have trouble on the trail?

Yes, staff offer support along the trails if needed during your ride.

Can I get picked up directly from Gibbston instead of riding back?

Yes, pickup from Gibbston is possible for an extra fee if you want more time at wineries.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and return by private shuttle between Queenstown and Arrowtown (or Gibbston for an added fee), use of a top-quality French-made e-bike fitted just for you with helmet and panniers provided, detailed trail map guidance from local staff before setting off at your own pace—and smiles thrown in free whether or not you manage to pronounce “Pinot Noir” correctly.