E-motorbike use
Here’s what you need to know about e-motorbike use in our district - including the rules, why they’re in place, and how you can help keep our community safe.
Background
We’re seeing more electric motorbikes (often called e-motos or Surrons) being used on public roads, walking tracks, shared trails, parks and reserves across the Queenstown Lakes District.
These vehicles are legally classified as motor vehicles and aren’t allowed in these public spaces.
The increased presence of these bikes has led to rising concerns about safety due to reports of near misses involving walkers, cyclists, children, and families. These bikes are typically fast, heavy and very quiet, which can make them difficult for others to see or hear.
QLDC are working alongside NZ Police, Queenstown Trails Trust, and Queenstown Mountain Bike Club to support education, raise awareness and, where needed, take enforcement action.
Understanding the rules
Electric motorbikes are legally classified as motor vehicles. This means riders must meet legal requirements, including holding the appropriate driver licence and making sure the vehicle is registered (where required).
If these requirements aren’t met, penalties may include:
Riding without the appropriate licence: $400 fine, and the rider must not ride again until licensed
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: $100 fine + 15 demerit points
In legal terms, a “road” includes any place the public has access to - not just sealed roads. This means parks, tracks and open spaces are included.
Parents or guardians can also be held responsible if they allow unlicensed riding.
Police and Council may take enforcement action where unsafe or illegal use continues.
How to report illegal use
You can report non-emergency incidents by calling the Police on *555.
Frequently asked questions
-
E-motobikes can be ridden on private land, with the landowner’s permission.
-
E-motorbikes are not permitted on public roads, footpaths, walking tracks, shared trails, bike parks, parks or reserves across the Queenstown Lakes District.
-
E-motorbikes are fast, heavy and almost silent, which can make them difficult for other people to see or hear. On shared public tracks, this increases the risk of serious collisions, especially for children, walkers and cyclists.
They can also cause damage to trails and surrounding vegetation. Their weight and power can create ruts, wear down trails and contribute to erosion, particularly in softer or wet conditions. This degrades the quality of tracks and can harm natural areas over time.
-
You can ride an e-motorbike on public roads, but only if it’s fully road legal.
That means:
The bike must be registered and roadworthy
It must have a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) (unless exempt)
The rider must hold the correct driver licence
The bike must meet all motorcycle or moped standards
If these requirements aren’t met, it’s illegal to ride the bike on the road
E-motorbikes are not allowed on footpaths. They are classed as motor vehicles and must not be used in pedestrian areas.
-
E-motorbikes are not the same as e-bikes. Only pedal-assisted e-bikes with motors of 300W or less are permitted on walking and biking trails.
E-motorbike:
Throttle-driven
High-powered (over 300W)
Not allowed on public roads, tracks, trails, parks or reserves
E-bike:
Pedal-assisted
300W or less
Allowed on many walking and biking trails
-
Riders can face fines and other penalties from NZ Police. Parents or guardians may also be held responsible.
-
You can report non-emergency incidents by calling the Police on*555.