NZ ebike rentals

In the town of Whanganui, on New Zealand’s North Island, visitors can rent ebikes for up to eight hours from eBikes Wanganui (73 Putiki Dr.; phone +64 6 348 8008, www.ebikeswaganui.co.nz).

An ebike uses an electric motor to propel the bike or, on climbs, offer pedaling assistance. The motor can produce speeds up to 32 kph (near 20 mph). Pedaling options are indicated on an LED screen on the handlebars, which also shows distance traveled and speed. An 8-hour rental costs NZD50 (near $33).

From the bike shop, a rider can follow the scenic Whanganui River Road that runs north 79 kilometers to the town of Pipiriki, passing Maori settlements along the way. Visit www.whanganuiriver.co.nz.