Ornsby Motorcycle Training & Licensing
Ornsby Motorcycle Training stands as the South Island's premier destination for comprehensive motorcycle education and licensing services, headquartered in Christchurch with operations extending across the entire region. As New Zealand’s largest and most highly regarded motorcycle school, the institution is dedicated to nurturing riders from their very first steps on a bike to becoming confident, skilled professionals on the road, track, or in adventure terrains.
What sets Ornsby apart is its personalized, one-on-one approach to instruction. Whether you are an absolute beginner unsure of how to distinguish a throttle from a piston, or a seasoned rider looking to refine your technique, the team of fully qualified and passionate instructors provides tailored guidance. They cover every stage of the licensing journey, including preparation for the Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST), theory tests, and Competency-Based Training and Assessments (CBTA) for both Restricted (6R) and Full (6F) licenses. Their fast-track pathway ensures that dedicated learners can progress efficiently from novice to fully licensed rider.
Beyond basic licensing, Ornsby offers a diverse array of advanced training programs designed to enhance safety and enjoyment. The popular Ride Forever Courses—ranging from Bronze to Gold, as well as specialized Urban and Scooter Survival modules—are renowned for helping both novice and returning riders sharpen their skills and stay safe on the road. For those seeking adrenaline and technical precision, the Road, Track & Cornering (RTC) School provides immersive half-day and full-day courses on professional tracks, focusing on cornering techniques and bike control. Additionally, the Adventure Riding School caters to those interested in off-road and gravel riding, with levels designed to tackle everything from local shingle tracks to remote backcountry routes.
Ornsby Motorcycle Training is more than just a driving school; it is a community hub for motorcycle enthusiasts. With locations in Christchurch, Invercargill, and Wanaka, the school combines expert instruction with a supportive environment where riders of all ages and backgrounds can connect. Their instructors are not only qualified teachers but also lifelong motorcycling enthusiasts who share a genuine passion for the sport. By choosing Ornsby, riders invest in long-term safety, skill development, and the sheer joy of two-wheeled freedom. With overwhelmingly positive reviews from students who describe their experiences as fun, transformative, and life-saving, Ornsby remains the top choice for anyone ready to "Open the Road Ahead."
Opening hours
- sunday: 9h-17h
- monday: 9h-17h
- tuesday: 9h-17h
- wednesday: 9h-17h
- thursday: 9h-17h
- friday: 9h-17h
- saturday: 9h-17h
Photos of Ornsby Motorcycle Training & Licensing
Our comment from DrivingSchools.Directory about Ornsby Motorcycle Training & Licensing:
Expert Instruction and Supportive Environment
Ornsby Motorcycle Training has established itself as a premier provider of motorcycle education across New Zealand's South Island, earning high praise for its team of fully qualified and passionate instructors. The school is particularly noted for creating a stress-free and enjoyable learning atmosphere, which helps alleviate the nerves often associated with learning to ride or upgrading a license. Instructors such as Jo, Wayne, Dan, and Clive are frequently highlighted for their patience, humor, and ability to tailor their teaching styles to individual needs, ensuring that students feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.
Comprehensive Licensing and Course Pathways
Whether a student is an absolute beginner or a seasoned rider looking to refine their skills, Ornsby offers a structured progression through New Zealand's licensing system. The training covers all stages, from the initial Learner license to the Basic Handling Skills Test, and onwards to Restricted and Full licenses. The curriculum is designed to build confidence progressively, with many students reporting that the clear, constructive feedback they receive at each stage is invaluable for passing their tests on the first attempt. The school’s administrative team is also commended for being responsive and accommodating when scheduling assessments.
The Ride Forever Programme and Advanced Training
A standout feature of the school is its participation in the ACC-funded Ride Forever programme, which offers subsidized courses for riders of all levels. The Bronze, Silver, and Gold courses are highly recommended not just for new riders, but also for experienced motorcyclists seeking to eliminate bad habits and stay sharp. Students frequently mention that these courses are life-saving, providing critical safety knowledge and hazard awareness techniques. Additionally, the school offers specialized track-based cornering schools and one-on-one sessions for those wishing to push their skills to the next level, with alumni often returning annually for refresher training.
Professional Quality and Student Trust
The consensus among the large number of positive reviews is that Ornsby Motorcycle Training delivers exceptional value and professional quality. Instructors are described as knowledgeable experts who prioritize safety above all else, often sharing insights that go beyond the basics of test-passing. The school’s commitment to fostering a safe riding community is evident in the dedicated approach taken by every staff member, making it a trusted choice for anyone aiming to become a competent and confident motorcyclist in New Zealand.
Ornsby Motorcycle Training & Licensing: Reviews
Reviews are the opinions of their authors. We do not verify that the author was a customer.
The most recent reviews on Google
4,9 out of 5 from 146 reviews
Fantastic experience: Having a good time while learning is a great experience.. having a good coach like Jo is a big bonus. Will highly recommend. Done My Urban Commuter Course last Sunday in Christchurch. (Feels more confident now in city riding) Looking forward for Bronze Course next time.. Thanks Team Ornsby!
Hey Arnold, Wow. Thanks for sharing your positive and enjoyable experience with Jo, she's amazing. And glad to hear you are now more confident riding in the City!
Fantastic experience: Back on a bike after 3 decades away. I'd fully recommend the ACC Live to Ride course with Ornsby (or any other school) if you don't want to become a statistic. Wayne was fun, informative and practical, adapted his style to suit the group which had a 40 year age range and ensured we all learnt heaps.
Hey Robin, Welcome back to 2 Wheels, and well done for taking it upon yourself to enroll in a Ride Forever refresher course after a long break! And Wayne certainlly has a way of making learning an enjoyable experience :)
Fantastic experience: Excellent rider training with great instructors. A must do for riders of any level of experience
Hey David Thanks for taking the time to give us a review. It has been great to see the progress you have made on our RTC (Track based training) courses.
Fantastic experience: Great team of people amazing experience doing the ride forever courses and licenses threw these guys
Hey Dion, Thank you, we are blessed to have such an amazing and passionate team :) Ornsby Motorcycle Training, your one stop motorcycle training and licensing shop!
Fantastic experience: Mace here, I came into do my basic handling test with Jo. She's amazing! Watch out for them planes! Thank you!
Hey Mace, Thanks for taking the time to give us a review. Ah yes them planes, Jo is a real enthusiast :)
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