New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and open roads make it a dream destination for motorcyclists. From the scenic South Island to the rugged North, Kiwi riders embrace both the thrill and freedom of two wheels. Motorcycle clubs in New Zealand are diverse—ranging from vintage enthusiasts to long-distance adventurers and charity-focused groups.
This guide breaks down the motorcycle scene in New Zealand: top clubs, types of riding groups, how to join, famous events, scenic routes, and more.
Motorcycle Culture in New Zealand
🛣️ A Brief History
Motorcycle riding has been a strong part of Kiwi culture since the early 20th century. The rise of classic British bikes like BSA and Norton eventually gave way to Japanese imports and Harley-Davidson popularity. Today, New Zealand has a well-established motorcycling community supported by clubs, dealerships, and government-registered riding associations.
🏍️ Popular Motorcycle Brands
- Harley-Davidson
- Triumph
- Honda
- Yamaha
- BMW Motorrad
- Kawasaki
- Suzuki
- Indian Motorcycle
⚖️ Motorcycle Laws and Rules
- All riders must wear approved helmets.
- Class 6 license is required for motorcycles.
- Bikes must have a valid Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and registration.
- Lane splitting is permitted under certain conditions.
- Hi-vis vests are encouraged but not mandatory.
- Some clubs prefer members to hold full licenses for group rides.
🎉 Major Motorcycle Events in New Zealand
- Brass Monkey Rally (Oturehua)
- Cold Kiwi Rally (Taihape)
- Burt Munro Challenge (Invercargill)
- Ride Forever Courses (NZTA-supported)
- Toy Run Charity Rides (nationwide)
- Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (Auckland, Wellington)
Top 15 Motorcycle Clubs in New Zealand [2025 Update]
Here are 15+ of the most active and respected motorcycle clubs across New Zealand:
1. Ulysses Club NZ
- 📍 Nationwide
- 🛠️ Type: Touring / Over 40s
- 🔑 40+ age, full license preferred
- 🌐 ulysses.org.nz
2. Bikers Rights Organisation of New Zealand (BRONZ)
- 📍 Nationwide
- 🛠️ Type: Advocacy / Rights
- 🔑 Open to all
- 🌐 bronz.org.nz
3. BMW Motorcycle Club of New Zealand
- 📍 Nationwide
- 🛠️ Type: BMW-only
- 🔑 BMW ownership required
- 🌐 bmwclub.org.nz
4. HOG – Harley Owners Group NZ
- 📍 Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington
- 🛠️ Type: Harley-Davidson
- 🔑 Harley ownership required
- 🌐 harley-davidson.com
5. Auckland Motorcycle Club
- 📍 Auckland
- 🛠️ Type: Racing / Sportbike
- 🔑 Club membership
- 🌐 amcc.org.nz
6. Kiwibikers
- 📍 Nationwide (online forum & real rides)
- 🛠️ Type: Mixed
- 🔑 Public, casual
- 🌐 kiwibiker.co.nz
7. Kapiti Coast Motorcycle Club
- 📍 Paraparaumu
- 🛠️ Type: Touring / Racing
- 🔑 Membership-based
- 🌐 Facebook Group
8. NZ Classic Motorcycle Racing Register
- 📍 National
- 🛠️ Type: Vintage / Classic Racing
- 🔑 Public / Register member
- 🌐 classicmotorcycleregister.org.nz
9. Christchurch Bikers Group
- 📍 Christchurch
- 🛠️ Type: Social / Mixed
- 🔑 Public
- 🌐 Facebook Group
10. Wairarapa Riders
- 📍 Wairarapa / Wellington
- 🛠️ Type: Casual Touring
- 🔑 Public
11. Wanganui Ulysses Branch
- 📍 Wanganui
- 🛠️ Type: Over-40s Touring
- 🔑 Ulysses national membership
- 🌐 ulysses.org.nz
12. South Island Riders Club
- 📍 Queenstown & Dunedin
- 🛠️ Type: Touring & Scenic Rides
- 🔑 Public
- 🌐 Meetup/Facebook
13. Hamilton Motorcycle Club
- 📍 Hamilton
- 🛠️ Type: Motocross / Road Racing
- 🔑 Membership
- 🌐 hamiltonmcc.org.nz
14. Wellington Riders Group
- 📍 Wellington
- 🛠️ Type: Mixed bikes, social rides
- 🔑 Public
- 🌐 Facebook Group
15. MotoTT Track Riders
- 📍 North Island
- 🛠️ Type: Track Day Riders
- 🔑 Booking required
- 🌐 motott.co.nz
16. Royal Enfield Riders NZ
- 📍 Auckland / Christchurch
- 🛠️ Type: Brand-specific
- 🔑 RE ownership preferred
- 🌐 Facebook Group
Types of Motorcycle Clubs in New Zealand
🏍️ MC vs RC
- MCs (Motorcycle Clubs) – Structured clubs with hierarchy, membership rules, and official patches.
- RCs (Riding Clubs) – More informal, social, and often community-focused.
🇳🇿 Community & Charity-Based Groups
- Many clubs participate in annual Toy Runs, charity poker runs, and fundraising rides for hospitals, children, and disaster relief.
👩 Women-Only or Inclusive Clubs
- While most clubs are inclusive, informal women-led riding groups are active in larger cities.
🏁 Brand-Specific Clubs
- Harley Owners Group NZ
- BMW Motorcycle Club NZ
- Royal Enfield Riders NZ
- Triumph Riders NZ (unofficial Facebook chapters)
How to Join a Motorcycle Club in New Zealand
General Process
- Join a public ride or event hosted by the club.
- Connect with admins via Facebook or official websites.
- Complete a membership form if needed.
- Pay any joining fees (usually small or optional).
- Some clubs offer “probationary” rides before full acceptance.
Things to Consider
- License class (many clubs prefer full licenses)
- Bike type/brand – Some clubs are brand-specific
- Location – Clubs may have chapters or ride zones
- Frequency of rides – Choose a club that matches your availability
Tips for New Riders
- Take a Ride Forever course to boost skills and confidence.
- Start with social RCs before joining structured MCs.
- Show up consistently—most clubs value reliability.
Famous Rides & Biker Events in New Zealand
Top Scenic Routes for Bikers
- Milford Road (Te Anau to Milford Sound) – Waterfalls, cliffs, and curves
- The Forgotten World Highway (SH43) – Historic and quiet
- Lewis Pass & Arthurs Pass (South Island) – Mountain magic
- Coromandel Loop (North Island) – Coastal ride perfection
- Kaikoura to Christchurch – Ocean on one side, hills on the other
National Motorcycle Events
- Brass Monkey Rally (South Island) – Ride in the coldest part of NZ
- Cold Kiwi Rally (Central Plateau) – A true Kiwi biker tradition
- Burt Munro Challenge (Invercargill) – Racing and tribute events
- Toy Runs (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch) – Charity rides
- DGR – Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride – Classic + custom ride
FAQs About Motorcycle Clubs in New Zealand
Are there outlaw motorcycle clubs in New Zealand?
Yes, a few outlaw MCs exist, but most recreational clubs avoid them. Casual and legal rider groups dominate the scene.
Can foreigners join clubs in New Zealand?
Yes, most clubs welcome expats, tourists, and international riders.
What’s the difference between an MC and an RC?
MCs have official structures, ranks, and membership rules. RCs are more relaxed, open, and socially oriented.
Is there a minimum bike CC to join a club?
Depends on the club. Touring clubs prefer 250cc+ or full-license bikes. Some scooter clubs or city riders welcome 125cc bikes.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re carving twisties in the Southern Alps or cruising coastal highways, New Zealand’s motorcycle clubs offer unforgettable riding experiences and genuine camaraderie. With options for every skill level, age group, and brand preference, there’s a Kiwi club waiting for you.
Get geared up, stay legal, ride respectfully, and enjoy the epic roads New Zealand has to offer. 🏍️🇳🇿
Tonmoy is a recognized author and editor known for his deep passion and expertise in the world of motorcycles. His work goes beyond the mechanics and aesthetics, capturing the vibrant culture of motorcycle clubs and the strong sense of brotherhood shared by riders. Tonmoy’s special enthusiasm for motorcycle clubs adds depth to his writing, making his contributions to the motorcycle community both insightful and impactful
