Smartpower E Bikes

A Waipu couple who traded the corporate world for a more grounded Northland lifestyle have found their stride in the fast-growing world of electric bikes.

Originally from Auckland, the pair began building their Waipu home two decades ago before permanently relocating six years ago. Seeking a change of pace and a way to contribute more meaningfully to their community, they eventually settled on purchasing Smartpower E Bikes, an established New Zealand brand founded in Motueka in 2012. They moved the business to Bream Bay last year.

Their connection to Waipu extends well beyond business. They say community involvement is simply part of the lifestyle. Recently, they donated one of their e-bikes as the top prize for the Waipu cycleway raffle, helping to raise nearly $18,000 for local initiatives.

Smartpower E Bikes offers a diverse range of models tailored to New Zealand lifestyles, from daily commuting to off-road adventures. Their line-up includes foldable bikes ideal for transport and storage, commuter bikes designed for everyday riders, and robust farm and lifestyle utility models suited to rural terrain. In the new year, they plan to expand further with the addition of e-trikes and other specialised models.

Battery safety and performance – key considerations for any e-bike owner – have also evolved significantly. The couple emphasise that today’s batteries are far safer than earlier generations. Smartpower exclusively imports Samsung battery technology, and ongoing advancements are delivering larger capacities, enabling riders to travel farther with confidence.

Their business is riding a wave of nationwide enthusiasm. E-bike imports in New Zealand jumped from 15,000 in 2017 to 78,000 in 2022. This rapid growth is driven by the bikes’ ability to make cycling more accessible across hilly landscapes, reduce car use and accommodate riders of different ages and abilities. Expanding cycling infrastructure and workplace incentives have accelerated the trend.