Renting a motorcycle or going on a motorcycle tour in New Zealand requires asking a few questions and making sure everything needed is catered for. We love to hear from people and answer enquiries, but here is a list of some questions and answers which may be helpful.
Contact us any time with any questions you may have and we will be more than happy to help.
Am I allowed 'off road'?
No, our bikes are available to enjoy as road bikes only and are not permitted 'off road' You are permitted on some public roads which are well-compacted unsealed roads but if it your intention to ride on these roads every day we can refer you to other operators. Please refer to our
Terms & Conditions for more details on restricted roads.
Can my pillion passenger ride in the support vehicle on a fully guided tour?
Yes, our support vehicle isn't just a van, we are 'P' Passenger Endorsed drivers and hold government certificates to legally carry passengers. If this service is required please inform us before the tour.
Can we contact a previous client for a reference?
Yes, contact one of our Ambassadors on our contact us page, if your country isn't shown ask us and with our clients' permission we can pass on their contact details to you. Also don't forget to check out TripAdvisor!
Can we leave our luggage at your base?
Yes, we can securely store any item at our base until you return and, for a small fee, we can even courier your luggage to your forward location if hiring one way.
Do you supply motorcycle gear?
Yes, for just NZD5 per day we hire a range of quality helmets (full face and open-face), jackets, pants, boots and gloves. For just NZD10 per day we hire Garmin Zumo GPS, and helmet Comms. We do not charge anything for side luggage, top boxes, inner liners, Ventura packs, roll bags etc. Ask to see our Extra Products List
How do we get to you?
We provide a complimentary transfer service between Christchurch Airport or your lodgings and our Christchurch base for all hires of three days or more, and we can arrange a taxi or chauffeur service for all other transfers required. Ask for our Extra Products list.
How old are your bikes and how many do you have?
We have over 30 bikes, most of which are either under 3 years old with less than 60,000kms on the clock. Unlike other operators, we're not restricted to make and model. We have a few 'golden oldies' that are still so immaculately maintained by our mechanic 'The Wizard' that they're just too good to move on, and they're priced for hire accordingly.
Is there accommodation near you?
Absolutely - near our base, near the airport, near the City Centre. We know the best ones too, so let us pre-book these for you before and after your trip. No booking charge, and we can offer rates comparable to hotel online rates.
What are the motorcycle licence requirements in New Zealand?
To be able to hire a motorcycle in New Zealand, you MUST hold a full and valid motorcycle licence which allows you to ride a motorcycle in your own country and you MUST be over 21 (restrictions apply if you're between 21 and 25). An International Driving Permit will be required if your normal licence is difficult to read, doesn't show the motorcycle endorsement or is in a foreign language.
NOTE: If you are a new rider or only used to a smaller bike, do not hire a larger motorcycle. New Zealand offers an advanced level of riding with challenging conditions, so choose your dream ride with care.
What is Qualmark?
Qualmark is a New Zealand's official standards agency that works with the NZ government to provide Quality Assurance to all New Zealand visitors. We are an endorsed activity, visitor transport and Enviro Silver accredited.
What method of riding do you use on a Fully Guided Tour?
Our guides usually use the 'marker' system, often known as the 'corner-man' system, and a 'tail-end Charlie' or 'sweep' is chosen each day to ensure everyone is accounted for. This system ensures that all riders can enjoy themselves with the freedom to ride at their own pace and without having to ride convoy. The support vehicle remains a short distance behind the group for contingency and in the unlikely event of any incidents.
When are you open?
We are contactable 24/7, 364 days a year. Bike Pick-up/drop off 9.00am - 4.00pm. No pick-ups or drop-offs on Christmas Day.
Would you cancel a tour if there's insufficient numbers?
We will never cancel a tour, so you can book your flights with confidence. In the highly unlikely event of insufficient numbers to deem a tour profitable, SPMT reserves the right to reduce the number of tour guides available on the tour. Should only one motorcycle be confirmed at 30 days prior to commencement, SPMT reserves the right to revert to a GPS Tour when an appropriate refund will apply.