bike tours new zealand south island

New Zealand’s Premier Cycle Tour Company

Escape with us.

Based in Queenstown, Escape by Cycle’s all-inclusive tours provide the perfect balance of amazing cycle trails, excellent food and boutique accommodation set in stunning  locations.

Much more than just a bike hire and luggage transfer service, we provide top quality guided bike tours, with the best equipment, full vehicle support and a personal level of service.

With over 10 years experience, we specialise in providing the highest level of support and comfort to our guests, catering to groups of mixed experience and ability.

• All meals, accommodation and top quality electric mountain bikes included in the price
• Full vehicle support allows you to take a break or skip a section if the weather turns bad
• Eat at the best restaurants and cafés, with amazing picnics along the cycle trails
• No hidden extras – helicopters, jet boats, hot tubs and wine tastings included for the perfect cycle tour
• We look after everything and deal with any problems which may arise

Choose your Escape

Cycle tours.

• Experience the Great Rides of New Zealand on an all-inclusive 6 day tours
• Typically 45-65km of cycling per day on purpose built gravel cycle trails
• Stay in remote parts of the South Island, often at a different location each night
• Full vehicle support with an experienced tour guide

The selection

• Alps 2 Ocean – a spectacular 6 day continuous ride from Aoraki Mt Cook to Oamaru
• Around the Mountains & Queenstown Trail – 6 days exploring Southland and Queenstown
• The Clutha Canyons – 6 days riding the Lake Dunstan Trail, Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold
• West Coast Wilderness – 6 days exploring the West Coast from Christchurch to Queenstown

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Escape by cycle.

Address: Kingston, Queenstown 9748

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Great Outdoors NZ Limited

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Kingston 9748

New Zealand

Phone:  +64 3428 2912

Mobile: +642 2399 3768

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20 Best Cycling Routes in South Island NZ (The Ultimate Guide)

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Best Cycling Routes

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the 20 best cycling routes in South Island , New Zealand . Get ready to explore breathtaking landscapes and embark on thrilling adventures on your bike.

Cycling in New Zealand’s South Island offers incredible scenery and a variety of routes for all skill levels. There are numerous off-road cycling routes , taking riders through forests , farmland , and along stunning coastlines. The Otago Central Rail Trail , Old Ghost Road , and West Coast Wilderness Trail are among the top recommended routes. Renting bikes is easy, and local tour companies offer advice, guiding, shuttles, and luggage transfers. The Great Rides showcase the diverse landscapes of New Zealand , from the Bay of Islands to Queenstown, and provide opportunities to explore attractions along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• South Island , New Zealand offers some of the best cycling routes in the world.
• There are options for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Off-road cycling routes take you through stunning landscapes, including forests , farmland , and coastlines.
• The Otago Central Rail Trail , Old Ghost Road , and West Coast Wilderness Trail are highly recommended routes.
• Renting bikes is easy, and local tour companies provide helpful services.

Cycling in South Island: A Paradise for Bike Enthusiasts

South Island in New Zealand is a true paradise for bike enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore, a multitude of off-road cycling routes , and convenient bike rental options. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or simply enjoy leisurely rides, South Island has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of cycling in South Island is the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you at every turn. From snow-capped mountains to pristine lakes and lush forests , the landscapes are truly awe-inspiring. With numerous off-road trails, you can explore forests, farmland , and stunning coastlines, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

To make your cycling adventure in South Island even more convenient, bike rental options are readily available. Whether you prefer a mountain bike or a road bike, you can easily find a rental shop to equip you with the perfect ride. Additionally, local tour companies offer a range of services, from expert advice to guided tours, shuttle services, and even luggage transfers. They take care of the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your ride.

If you’re looking to explore beyond South Island, New Zealand’s Great Rides offer even more opportunities for unforgettable cycling experiences. From the famous Bay of Islands to the adventure capital of Queenstown, these routes showcase the diverse landscapes of the country and allow you to discover attractions along the way.

So, whether you’re seeking a thrilling mountain biking adventure or a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes, South Island in New Zealand has it all. With its stunning scenery, off-road routes, easy bike rentals, and guided tour options, it’s the perfect destination for bike enthusiasts of all levels. Start planning your cycling adventure today and immerse yourself in the beauty of South Island.

Top Recommendations: Otago Central Rail Trail, Old Ghost Road, and West Coast Wilderness Trail

Among the many incredible cycling routes in South Island, three stand out as top recommendations: the Otago Central Rail Trail, Old Ghost Road, and West Coast Wilderness Trail. Let’s explore the highlights of each trail.

The Otago Central Rail Trail offers a unique and historic experience. Once a railway line, it has been transformed into a stunning cycling trail that winds through the heart of Central Otago. With beautifully preserved old railway stations and charming towns along the way, cyclists can soak in the region’s rich gold-mining history. The trail provides breathtaking views of rugged landscapes, expansive plains, and scenic gorges. It’s suitable for all skill levels and is well-equipped with facilities and services for riders.

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, the Old Ghost Road won’t disappoint. This 85-kilometer trail is a true backcountry experience, taking you through untouched wilderness and offering panoramic views of the West Coast’s rugged beauty. As you traverse through forests and alpine terrain, you’ll encounter suspension bridges, waterfalls, and remote huts nestled in the mountains. This challenging route is perfect for experienced riders seeking an adrenaline-pumping journey through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes.

The West Coast Wilderness Trail provides a unique blend of nature and history. Meandering through lush rainforests and alongside picturesque rivers , this trail offers a peaceful and scenic cycling experience. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore charming townships, learn about the local Maori culture, and discover the region’s rich gold-mining heritage. With well-maintained trails and a range of accommodation options, this trail is suitable for riders of all abilities.

Exploring New Zealand’s Great Rides

New Zealand’s Great Rides offer cyclists the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s stunning landscapes, from the picturesque Bay of Islands to the adventure hub of Queenstown, with plenty of attractions to explore along the way. These well-maintained trails showcase the diverse beauty of New Zealand’s South Island, making it a dream destination for bike enthusiasts of all levels.

Bay of Islands

Starting with the Bay of Islands Great Ride, cyclists can pedal through lush native forests, past golden beaches, and alongside sparkling blue waters. Along the way, they can discover historic sites, including the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the nation’s founding document was signed, and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise to see the famous Hole in the Rock formation.

For those seeking more adventure, the Queenstown Trail offers an epic experience. This trail takes riders through dramatic mountain scenery, passing by crystal-clear lakes and vibrant alpine landscapes. Cyclists can stop for thrilling activities like bungee jumping or jet boating , or simply soak up the atmosphere in the vibrant town center, known for its world-class restaurants and lively nightlife.

The Great Rides of New Zealand’s South Island offer a truly unforgettable cycling experience. Whether you prefer the tranquility of the Bay of Islands or the adrenaline-pumping activities of Queenstown, these trails showcase the best that New Zealand has to offer. So grab your bike, explore the Great Rides, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Renting Bikes and Local Tour Companies

Renting a bike in South Island is a breeze, with numerous rental companies offering a variety of bikes to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a mountain bike for off-road adventures or a sleek road bike for long-distance rides, you’ll find the perfect ride for your cycling adventure. These rental companies pride themselves on providing high-quality and well-maintained bikes to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

But renting a bike is just the beginning. Local tour companies in South Island go the extra mile to make your cycling experience unforgettable. They offer a range of valuable services to enhance your trip. From expert advice on the best routes and trails to knowledgeable guides who can show you the hidden gems of the region, these tour companies have you covered. They can also arrange shuttle services to transport you and your bikes to different starting points, making it easier to explore multiple routes without worrying about logistics.

Another advantage of using local tour companies is the option to transfer your luggage between accommodations. This means you can enjoy the thrill of cycling without the burden of carrying heavy bags. Simply drop off your belongings at one accommodation, hop on your bike, and when you arrive at your next stop, your luggage will be waiting for you. It’s a hassle-free way to travel and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the cycling experience.

Why Choose Local Tour Companies?

• Expertise: Local tour companies have extensive knowledge of the region, ensuring you make the most of your cycling adventure.
• Safety: They prioritize your safety, providing guidance on routes and terrain suitable for your skill level.
• Convenience: With shuttle services and luggage transfers, you can focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about logistics.
• Enhanced Experience: Guided tours and insider tips from local experts add depth and authenticity to your journey.
• Supporting Local Businesses: By choosing local tour companies, you contribute to the local economy and help sustain the cycling tourism industry in South Island.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a new adventure or a beginner eager to explore the stunning landscapes of South Island, renting a bike and partnering with a local tour company is the ideal way to make the most of your cycling experience. Get ready to pedal your way through breathtaking scenery, immerse yourself in local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Off-Road Cycling Routes: Forests, Farmland, and Coastlines

South Island boasts an array of off-road cycling routes that traverse through enchanting forests, picturesque farmland, and breathtaking coastlines, providing cyclists with a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Whether you’re an adrenaline-seeking mountain biker or a leisurely cyclist looking for scenic trails, South Island has something for everyone.

One of the standout routes is the Heaphy Track, which takes you through diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to rugged coastal panoramas. This multi-day trail is a favorite among mountain bikers, offering an unforgettable adventure surrounded by nature’s beauty.

If you prefer a combination of farmland and coastlines, the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is a must-visit. This 301-kilometer-long trail starts at the foot of the Southern Alps and winds its way through charming rural towns, vineyards, and stunning coastal landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass turquoise lakes, towering mountains, and golden beaches.

For the ultimate coastal experience, the Queen Charlotte Track is an excellent choice. This trail hugs the Marlborough Sounds, offering breathtaking views of the serene waterways and lush native forests. With abundant wildlife and secluded bays, this route immerses you in the area’s natural beauty.

Exploring South Island’s off-road cycling routes is an adventure like no other. Whether you’re seeking tranquility in the forests, awe-inspiring views of the coastlines, or the charm of rural farmland, each route promises a unique experience. So, grab your bike, soak in the stunning scenery, and let the South Island’s natural wonders take your breath away.

Cycling Highlights: From Rivers to Mountains

South Island offers a plethora of cycling highlights , from meandering rivers to majestic mountains. Discover the beauty of routes like the St. James Cycle Trail and the Meandering River Trail as you pedal through these picturesque landscapes.

The St. James Cycle Trail takes you through the enchanting St. James Conservation Area, where you’ll witness crystal-clear rivers and lush alpine meadows. This trail is perfect for nature lovers, as it winds its way through mountain ranges, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Keep an eye out for native bird species and enjoy the tranquil serenity of this untouched wilderness.

For those seeking a leisurely ride along a scenic river, the Meandering River Trail is an excellent choice. This route follows the gentle curves of the meandering rivers, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through charming small towns, where you can stop for a cup of coffee or explore local attractions. With each pedal stroke, you’ll feel a sense of serenity and connection with nature.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, South Island’s cycling highlights offer something for everyone. From the awe-inspiring rivers to the majestic mountains, these routes will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of New Zealand.

Taste the Flavors: Wineries and Local Cuisine

Indulge your taste buds as you explore South Island’s cycling routes, with wineries and local cuisine adding flavor to your adventures . Treat yourself to a winery lunch and experience the best of the region’s culinary offerings.

South Island is home to a vibrant food and wine scene that perfectly complements its breathtaking landscapes. As you pedal your way through the picturesque countryside, take the opportunity to visit one of the many wineries dotted along the cycling routes. Sample exquisite New Zealand wines and savor the unique flavors that the region has to offer. Whether you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a rich Pinot Noir, there’s a wine for every palate.

In addition to wineries , South Island boasts a thriving local cuisine that celebrates the region’s abundant produce. Stop by a local café or restaurant and treat yourself to a delicious meal made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From succulent seafood caught straight from the nearby coast to flavorsome lamb from the lush farmland, you’ll find a range of mouthwatering dishes to satisfy your cravings.

For the full culinary experience, consider planning a winery lunch along your cycling route. Many wineries offer exquisite dining options, allowing you to indulge in a delectable meal while surrounded by stunning vineyards. Immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings as you savor the flavors of South Island.

Adventures Along the Trails: Jet Boating and Kayaking

The adventures never end along South Island’s cycling trails, with thrilling jet boat tours, exciting kayak trips, and adrenaline-pumping activities like the Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump. Get ready for unforgettable experiences.

One of the most popular adventures along the trails is jet boating . Hop aboard a powerful jet boat and hold on tight as you cruise through winding rivers and navigate rapids. Feel the rush of wind in your hair and the spray of water on your face as your expert guide maneuvers the boat with precision. The combination of speed, skill, and stunning landscapes makes jet boating an exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss.

If you prefer a more serene adventure, kayaking is the perfect choice. Paddle your way through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Discover hidden coves, explore secluded beaches, and get up close to wildlife. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there are options for every skill level. Take a guided tour or rent a kayak and set out on your own to explore South Island’s stunning coastlines and tranquil lakes.

No adventure along the trails would be complete without a visit to the Kawarau Bridge, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump. Take the plunge and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you leap from the historic bridge into the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River below. It’s an iconic New Zealand experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Get ready to embark on incredible adventures as you cycle through South Island’s stunning landscapes. From jet boating and kayaking to the adrenaline-pumping Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump, there’s something for everyone along the trails. So, grab your bike and prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with thrilling experiences and breathtaking beauty.

Beyond Cycling: Exploring South Island’s Attractions

South Island has more to offer beyond its incredible cycling routes . Explore the breathtaking beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound, immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, or embark on the historical Clutha Gold Trail. Each attraction offers a unique experience that will make your South Island adventure even more memorable.

Queen Charlotte Sound

Located in the Marlborough region, Queen Charlotte Sound is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With its picturesque coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests, it’s a haven for wildlife and outdoor activities. Take a leisurely hike along the Queen Charlotte Track, or hop on a kayak to explore the tranquil bays and discover hidden coves. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and savor the stunning views while enjoying a meal surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Lake Pukaki

If you’re seeking awe-inspiring natural wonders, look no further than Lake Pukaki. This turquoise-colored lake is nestled amidst the Southern Alps and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s edge, or rent a paddleboard or kayak for an up-close and personal experience with the glacial waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs as the lake mirrors the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Clutha Gold Trail

For history buffs and adventure seekers, the Clutha Gold Trail is a must-visit attraction. This scenic trail follows the mighty Clutha River and takes you on a journey through the region’s gold rush history. Immerse yourself in the stories of the pioneers as you cycle through charming towns, picturesque farmland, and past stunning river vistas. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit historic sites, enjoy local hospitality, and discover the secrets of this fascinating era.

Congratulations! You now have the ultimate guide to the best cycling routes in South Island, New Zealand. It’s time to start planning your unforgettable cycling adventure in this picturesque region.

With its incredible scenery and diverse routes, South Island offers a paradise for bike enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for off-road trails through forests, farmland, or stunning coastlines, there is something for everyone.

The top recommended routes, including the Otago Central Rail Trail, Old Ghost Road, and West Coast Wilderness Trail, promise breathtaking landscapes and thrilling experiences. And don’t worry about equipment – renting bikes is easy, and local tour companies are ready to provide advice, guiding, shuttles, and luggage transfers for a seamless journey.

Don’t miss out on New Zealand’s Great Rides, which showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, from the scenic Bay of Islands to the vibrant city of Queenstown. Along these routes, you’ll have the opportunity to explore charming attractions and taste the local cuisine.

So, grab your helmet and get ready to embark on an adventure like no other. South Island awaits, with its rivers, mountains, wineries, and thrilling activities such as jet boating and kayaking. Beyond cycling, there are countless attractions to discover, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.

Q: Are there cycling routes for all skill levels in South Island, New Zealand?

A: Yes, South Island offers cycling routes for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

Q: What are some of the top recommended cycling routes in South Island?

A: Some of the top recommended cycling routes in South Island include the Otago Central Rail Trail, Old Ghost Road, and West Coast Wilderness Trail.

Q: Is it easy to rent bikes in South Island?

A: Yes, renting bikes in South Island is easy and there are several rental options available.

Q: Are there local tour companies that offer guiding and shuttle services?

A: Yes, there are local tour companies in South Island that offer advice, guiding, shuttles, and luggage transfers for cyclists.

Q: What are the Great Rides in New Zealand?

A: The Great Rides in New Zealand are a collection of cycling routes that showcase the diverse landscapes of the country. Popular routes include the Bay of Islands and Queenstown.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect on the off-road cycling routes?

A: The off-road cycling routes in South Island take riders through forests, farmland, and along stunning coastlines, offering incredible scenery.

Q: Are there cycling highlights such as rivers and mountains in South Island?

A: Yes, South Island offers cycling highlights such as rivers and mountains. Routes like the St. James Cycle Trail and Meandering River Trail provide scenic beauty.

Q: Are there wineries and local cuisine to enjoy along the cycling routes?

A: Yes, there are wineries and opportunities to sample local cuisine along the cycling routes in South Island.

Q: What adventure opportunities are there along the cycling trails?

A: Along the cycling trails in South Island, you can enjoy thrilling jet boat tours, scenic kayak trips, and attractions like the Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump.

Q: What are some attractions to explore beyond cycling in South Island?

A: In addition to cycling, you can explore attractions like Queen Charlotte Sound, Lake Pukaki, and the Clutha Gold Trail in South Island.

Source Links

• https://www.komoot.com/guide/72441/cycling-in-new-zealand
• https://www.newzealand.com/int/feature/cycle-trails/
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g255116-Activities-c61-t83-South_Island.html

About The Author

Daniel Shakibaie

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Why Book With Us?

• Small cycle groups
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• 12 People Per Tour
• Fitness Level: 2 - 3
• Fully Supported Bike Tour
• Picton to Bluff

Cycle Tour the South Island, ride Picton to Bluff on our fully supported version of this classic route.

Join us to explore the South Island, Te Wai Pounamu, by bike! A fully supported version of the Kennet brothers 1410km classic route means you can enjoy each day’s riding knowing there is a comfortable bed waiting, snacks, lunch and water are sorted, and your gear is being hauled to the evening’s destination by our trusty sag wagon. 

Beginning our ride in Picton with incredible scenes of the Marlborough Sounds, we challenge ourselves on backcountry roads like the Maungatapu, discover the Nelson Lakes National Park and enjoy the native beech forests that shroud the mountains and meet the incredibly wild and beautiful West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Finishing your ride at the famous Stirling Point signpost in Bluff is a memorable and emotional end to your epic adventure.   

No tricky logistics! With two crew providing meals and riding sweep with mechanical support, your accommodation booked plus the van and bike trailer if you need it… we are here to help your bike packing dreams become a reality. If the full tour is too much at once, then why not tick off one island at a time.  

*Please note if you are coming from overseas and bringing your own bike, we are not able to carry empty bike bags or boxes. You can either courier them from Picton to Invercargill or package your bike to travel in a cardboard box that you can recycle on your arrival.  

Tour Highlights - Tour Aotearoa South Island

Departure & Return Location

Meeting Point & Ride Start:  Picton Ride Finish:  Bluff Tour Ends:  Invercargill

Price Includes

• 19 nights Accommodation
• Meals as per tour itinerary
• Two Escape Adventures tour leaders
• Support vehicle & Bike Trailer
• 1x Boat Transfer

Optional Extras

• Bike Hire: If required hire fee is NZD $600 (Pedal Bike)
• E Bike Hire: If required hire fee is NZD $1600 (Available November 2023 bookings essential)

Price Excludes

• Airfares, visas, or airport taxes
• Optional activities and excursions
• Some meals as per the detailed itinerary
• Personal equipment
• Getting to Picton and from Invercargill

Solo Travellers - Single Supplement

• NO Single Supplement! If you’re traveling alone, we’ll pair you to twin-share with another biker. (same gender)
• If you do not wish to share that is fine too, a single supplement of $1600 NZD will apply. NOTE Single rooms will be provided where available however in some places you will be required to share a bathroom.

Itinerary - Tour Aotearoa, NZ South Island Supported Cycle Tour

Day 1: arrival day in picton.

Arrive in Picton.  Meet with your tour leaders & fellow bikers at 5pm for your pre-departure meeting and first meal together.

DAY 2: Bike Queen Charlotte Drive

We get our wheels turning on the stunning Queen Charlotte drive. A shorter riding day offers us time to explore the coastal settlements along the way. If trails are your jam, then you can hop onto the Link Pathway which runs almost parallel to the roads through the regenerating native forest.

Cycling Distance: 45km

Accommodation: Motel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 3: Cycle Scenic Roads to Nelson City

You’ll ride on sealed roads today through small rural settlements and over the scenic Whangamoa reserve between Havelock and Nelson. Don’t worry, there’s a good cafe and at least one ice cream shop on the way! 

Cycling Distance: 75km

DAY 4: Cycling to St Arnaud

We meander out of Nelson on the sealed/gravel Great Taste Trail. Navigating a historic railway tunnel is a pretty great way to avoid a steep hill, so don’t forget your head torch! Then we’re on country roads all the way to St Arnaud.

Cycling Distance:  99km

DAY 5: Ride via Lake Rotoroa to Murchison

We stretch our legs today clocking up some kilometres on quiet country roads.  We pass through Lake Rotoroa, some gorgeous native bush and lots of fords.

Cycling Distance:  75km

DAY 6: Native bush and back roads to Reefton

Good rural farming country meets native bush on lovely quiet little used roads. We pop over Maruia Saddle at 500m, then it’s a lovely up and over piece of road – rich in bush and birdlife to Reefton.

Cycling Distance:  123km

Accommodation: Historic House 

DAY 7: Historic roads to the West Coast

It’s gently descending all the way to Greymouth. Stopping off at the eccentric and historic settlement of Blackball and paying our respects to the minors lost in the Pike River mine disaster.

Cycling Distance:  82km

Accommodation:  Motel

Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 8: Rest day in Greymouth

A well-earned rest day, explore the nearby historical mining settlements, enjoy the Pounamu pathway exhibition or hire a car/ ride your bike up to the beautiful  Punakaiki rocks.

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9: West Coast Wilderness Trail

We don our plaid and join the West Coast Wilderness Trail and gently climb on purpose-built trails through magical forest. What goes up must come down, this afternoon we enjoy a stunning ride from Cowboy Paradise down to Hokitika via the Lake Kaniere trails

Cycling Distance:  101km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

DAY 10: Coastal Cycle Trail

We absorb the West Coast pace of life on the most recent part of the West Coast Wilderness trail. Coastal cycle trail, secondary roads and finally highway, we enjoy a smorgasbord of farmland, stunning bush and lakes.

Cycling Distance: 82km

Accommodation: Retro Hotel

DAY 11: Riding into Glacier Country

Get your hill legs out… we’re riding into glacier country. We set out early to allow time for optional glacial viewing activities for those who wish.

Cycling Distance: 86km

DAY 12: Pedal the Wild West Coast

We continue riding south on sealed roads through towering Rimu rainforest. You’ll enjoy glimpses of rugged and wild coastline including Bruce Bay and the famous Knights Point lookout.

Cycling Distance: 119km

DAY 13: In the shadow of the Southern Alps

Click into your low gears or crank up your battery we’re going over… Up we go – up and over the Southern Alps. Take it slowly – because there is some great scenery to see!

Cycling Distance: 79km

Accommodation: Cabins

DAY 14: Wānaka awaits - lake views get us there

We ride from Lake Wānaka to Lake Hāwea and back to Lake Wānaka.  It sounds like a circle… but it’s not.  It’s quite hilly and can be windy but if we’re in luck the resident nor’wester will blow us to Wānaka with the last part on a fun riverside cycle trail.

DAY 15: Rest Day in Wānaka

Rest Day in Wānaka. Central Otago scenery, local activities, abundant shopping and dining options or a relaxing walk by the lake.

DAY 16: Bike Crown Range Road

There’s no doubt you need your wits about you today, the Crown Range Road is the highest main road in NZ at 1076m and you’re going to ride over it! We finish the day on the cycle trail into Queenstown. (You can of course opt out of this ride if you prefer).

Cycling Distance:  87km

Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 17: Round The Mountains cycle trail

We begin the day with a 45 min boat trip across Lake Wakatipu. Today is BIG, big scenery, big day, big climb, big down and hopefully a big southland feed!

Cycling Distance:  103km

DAY 18: Pedal The Southland Plains

We make a beeline for Invercargill today. Quiet roads through rolling farmland with an occasional view of the Southern Ocean make a great landscape to reflect on your journey!

Cycling Distance: 101km

DAY 19: Grand finale into Bluff!

The last hurrah, the crowning glory! Today you roll to the iconic signpost at Stirling Point, Bluff marking the end of your incredible adventure by bike.

Cycling Distance:  31km

DAY 20: Farewell

Our final breakfast together. Stay on and explore the region or travel on to Stewart Island. Crew can help arrange bike boxes and transfers to the airport.

Photos from the Tour Aotearoa South Island - Cycle South Island NZ.

Map - Tour Aotearoa, NZ South Island Cycle Tour

Cycle Tour Aotearoa, Cycle South Island NZ - Te Waipounamu Frequently Asked Questions

The biking lowdown.

• A total distance of 1410km spread over 16 days of biking.
• This is a ‘Pedal bike-centric’ cycle tour. Riding distances and overnight stops have been designed around the needs of pedal biking. E-Bikers are welcome to join.
• Daily riding distances have been planned to be achievable, (but not without challenge) and to allow plenty of time to explore the local towns along the way.
• We encourage an early start so that you have time to recharge at the end of the day.
• 31-124km riding per day on wonderfully remote and scenic riding route. Approximately 64% sealed roads / 21% quiet gravel roads and 15% cycle trails.
• There are some big climbs, big downs, undulating coastal terrain and of course there is also some flat terrain.
• Cycle trails have variable terrain and generally slow riding speed.
• Dirt/gravel road biking experience will add to the enjoyment of your tour.
• Our ‘Sag Wagon’ support is available (most of the time) should you need a break from the saddle.

How does a 'supported cycle tour' work?

YOU  – RIDE . NAVIGATE . ENJOY . EAT . SLEEP .

WE PROVIDE:

• Daily ride information.
• Digital navigation and cue notes.
• Mechanical and first aid support.
• Carry your luggage.
• Ride sweep.
• Breakfasts, lunches, water and riding snacks (and some dinners).
• All the logistics.
• And all Accommodation

Whether you choose to ride the full length of New Zealand or just one Island at a time – we’ll sort the nitty gritty. Before your tour begins, we will organise all the logistics and book all accommodation.

We will give you daily digital route maps, that you can follow on your phone or GPS, and route cue notes so that you can ride at your own pace, stop when you like to smell the roses and grab a coffee when the opportunity presents, while always knowing that we are there if you need us.

On tour, your awesome Escape Adventures support crew will have your breakfast ready for an early start and provide snacks for you to carry with you.  They will provide daily ride information and ride sweep with first aid and mechanical support.  Our support vehicle will carry your luggage, and on most days set up a ‘floating picnic lunch’ on route so that you can dine’n’dash and top up on water and snacks.  The support vehicle is also there if you need first aid or mechanical support, or if you need a break from the saddle.

How fit do I need to be for this cycle tour?

This cycle tour includes rides of 31-124km per day. Please do read about the daily riding distances taking note of the riding terrain in the itinerary below and prepare accordingly. The more prepared you are the more you will enjoy your adventure! You should be comfortable riding 3-5 times a week with regular rides of 30-50km in length. Preparing for your cycle tour should involve gravel, dirt and off-road riding, with some hills. Please do contact us if you would like some help with a detailed training plan.

Preparing for your cycle tour should involve:

• Riding on gravel, unpaved terrain with some hills.
• Ride 3-4 times a week with rides of 40-80km in length.

Support:  Our trusty support vehicle carries all your luggage, has lunch, snacks and water at hand, and is there if you need a break from the saddle.

What kind of meals do you provide?

Included in your tour: All breakfasts and riding snacks, most lunches and one evening meal. (Two lunches are not included). Two lunches and most of the evening meals (as per the tour itinerary) are in places where there are dining and wining options available – therefore at your own cost and choosing. (This gives you more control over the cost of your tour AND spreads the love supporting local businesses!)We are most definitely able to cater for vegetarians and special diets. If this includes you, it is essential to advise us of this before your tour begins, so that the support vehicle can be stocked with the necessary supplies.

Typical Included Meals:

•  Breakfasts – Fresh fruit, muesli, toast and spreads, hot drinks. 
•  Lunches – Picnic style lunches, fresh salads, cold meats, cheese & bread.
•  Snacks – Fresh fruit, salty snacks, home baking.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

All accommodation for the duration of 19 nights of your cycle tour is included. Our job is to explore and find the most fitting accommodation to work in with the riding route. Sometimes there is lots of choice, sometimes very little. We will be staying in a combination of motels, hotels, lodges, holiday houses and holiday park cabins. When possible these will have ensuite bathrooms, however in some cases – in holiday houses and holiday park cabins it will be necessary to share bathrooms.

Accommodation is on a share twin basis. If you’re traveling alone, we’ll pair you to twin-share with another biker. If you do not wish to share a single supplement is available. *Single room options may be limited in some locations.

What type of bikes do we ride?

The ideal bike for the tour is a hardtail mountain bike or a touring bike with off road tyres. A gravel bike is also an option – but only if you are familiar with riding one on unpaved surfaces! You will need to be able to carry up to 1.5-2L water, a jacket and snacks in a backpack, front roll or frame bag.

Escape Adventures have a small fleet of bikes and E-bikes available for hire available for hire in S M L & XL. (Bookings Essential).

Trek X-Caliber mountain bikes $950 E-Bikes (Brand and Model tbc) – $1600 

When you hire one of our bikes – they are maintained by us and kept in excellent running condition.  Contact us if you plan on hiring a bike.

What is the maximum size of the cycle group?

This trip has 6-12 bikers, plus two experienced Escape Adventures tour leaders

Wendy Norwood

I’ve long wanted to do the Tour Aotearoa but haven’t been able to do it the standard way … so how happy was I when Escape Adventures decided to do it! I think I was probably one of the first to sign up for the inaugural tour in 2020. If you’ve done a trip with these guys before you’ll know how good they are – if you haven’t then this is your chance. Great guides, great organising, great baking – thanks Mandy. I loved every minute, even the challenging bits. So many highlights. Just cycling the length of the South Island and experiencing our beautiful country by bike was truly amazing.

2024 22nd – 25th November

5 Passes Tour: The Premier Cycle Tour of New Zealand’s South Island

22nd – 25th november 2024.

The 5 Passes Tour is a four day cycling tour where every facet is fully supported and catered for with over 20 support crew to look after your every need. Travelling from Christchurch on the east coast of the South Island, through to the Alpine Village of Hanmer Springs. Then it’s over Lewis Pass through to Greymouth reaching the West Coast before returning back to Christchurch via Arthur’s Pass and Porter’s Pass. The scenery is breath-taking and having the ability to experience this while riding and racing your bike in a safe supported environment, is priceless!

2024 TOUR IS SOLD OUT – CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST

Click here to view the 2024 rider list.

Our Sponsors

The following companies make the 5 passes tour an amazing event.

Old Ghost Road, West Coast

By Sven Martin

• Old Ghost Road Trail
• Dean Bank Track
• Queenstown Bike Park

Starting from Nelson

to Queenstown via the  West Coast

Total travel time: 10 hours 40 min

CAR-FREE TRAVEL OPTIONS

Visit two of New Zealand's most challenging cycle trails, Dun Mountain Trail  and Old Ghost Road with this epic 7-day cycle itinerary through the South Island.

Travel from sunny Nelson down the West Coast to Wanaka and Queenstown , along the way you'll discover some of the best mountain bike parks in the country and a huge range of other attractions including glacier walks, rafting, bungy jumping and more. 

Day 1: Dun Mountain Trail, Nelson

Dun Mountain Trail, Nelson Tasman

NELSON Long golden beaches and untouched native forests

• Dun Mountain Trail
• Wildlife encounters
• Wine tasting trails

DUN MOUNTAIN TRAIL

Mix spectacular scenery with a pristine mountain trail.

Arrive in Nelson and relax at a local café before starting the ride from central Nelson to the start of the Dun Mountain Trail .

The cycle trail traces the route of the old Dun Mountain railway, a horse-drawn tramway that served Duppa Lode chromite mine in the late 1800s. You'll journey up into the alpine landscape, with stunning views of the Nelson-Tasman region. Then take the exciting 20km downhill run back to Nelson.

Relax in the evening with a meal at one of Nelson's many restaurants, sample the region's world-class wine or check out the plethora of craft breweries that populate the town. 

Day 2 - 3: Old Ghost Road Trail, Murchison

Old Ghost Rd trail, West Coast

• Historic mining trail
• Stay at Ghost Lake Hut
• Pristine wilderness

Nelson to Murchison

1 h 45 min | 124 km via SH6

2 h | by Intercity (opens in new window)

OLD GHOST ROAD TRAIL

The most remote and challenging of New Zealand’s Great Rides.

Travel on to the ghost town of Lyell in the Buller Gorge. Nearby Murchison is a good place to stop on the way for last minute supplies.

The Old Ghost Road trail is the most remote and challenging of all New Zealand's great rides. This itinerary includes the first section, the full trail takes 3-days and follows an old miners route from Lyell, deep into the wilderness along the Mokihinui River and on to Seddonville north of Westport . Ride the first part of the trail to Ghost Lake Hut, where you can spend the night or head back to Lyell and stay at the DOC campsite (opens in new window) .  A track from the campsite to an abandoned stamping battery and historic cemetery makes an interesting walk to end the day.

Day 4: Blue Spur Track, Hokitika

Blue Spur track, West Coast

By Jonathan Kennett

• Tunnels track
• West Coast Wilderness Trail
• Hokitika Wild Food Festival

Lyell (near Murchison ) to Hokitika

2 h 45 min | 190 km via SH6

4 h 20 min | via Westport by Intercity (opens in new window)

BLUE SPUR TRACK

From the wild food capital of New Zealand to the wild mountain bike trails of Blue Spur.

Travel down the coast to Hokitika , where you'll find the area known as Blue Spur. During the New Zealand gold rush Blue Spur was home to around 2,500 people, today it is a hub for mountain bikers.

Built by local bikers for pure fun, the  Blue Spur track is actually a network of tracks all within easy riding distance of Hokitika. With names like The Edge, Stags Drop, Bad Boys and Seesaw, the tracks each have a character all of their own. Spend the day trying out as many as you can. Be sure to finish with the Tunnels Track, which leads through an old mining tunnel.

If you have time, stay an extra day and explore the West Coast Wilderness Trail from Kumara to Cowboy Paradise. 

Day 5: Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier/Te O Tuawe Valley Walk, West Coast

By Miles Holden

Hokitika to Fox Glacier

2 h 5 min | 157 km via SH6

3 h 30 min | by Intercity (opens in new window)

• Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
• Wild coastline and native forests
• Lake Matheson walking trail

EXPLORE WEST COAST GLACIERS

Discover a place where the ice age is still underway.

From Hokitika, you'll travel south down the wild coast, past small towns, beautiful lakes and lush native rainforests to glacier territory.

There are two glaciers in this region, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier . Both are easily accessible. At Fox Glacier Village , you'll find a short easy ride to the glacier's terminal face. The trail is flat and the scenery along the way is amazing. Venture onto the glacier itself with a  guided trip or take a scenic helicopter fligh t and see the full glacier from above.

In the evening, check out the glowworm caves a short distance from the town centre.

Day 6: Dean Bank Track, Wanaka

Deans Bank Track, Wānaka

By Camilla Rutherford

• Deans Bank Track
• Hiking and 4WD off-road tours
• Climbing adventures with Wildwire

Fox Glacier to Wanaka

3 h 15 min | 262 km via SH6

5 h 41 min | by Intercity  (opens in new window)

DEANS BANK TRACK

Fast and flowing single-track mountain biking circuit with million-dollar views.

From Fox Village drive south and over the Southern Alps through the incredible Haast Pass to Wanaka . At Albert Town, just before Wanaka Township, you'll find the popular Deans Bank Track . This purpose-built track cuts into the river terrace and takes in spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, Clutha River and Wanaka Basin.

From here, you can choose to ride back to Wanaka Town via the linking Lakeside Trails . Here you'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars in which to relax and if you have time, visit some of the town's unique attractions, such as Puzzling World and the quirky Paradiso Cinema.

Day 7: Queenstown Bike Park

Queenstown Bike Park, Queenstown

By Callum Wood

• Ben Lomond Forest
• Bungy, skydiving, rafting and jet boats
• Food, wine and luxury spas

Wanaka to Queenstown

1 h 30 min | 112 km via SH6

1 h 30 min | by  Intercity (opens in new window)

QUEENSTOWN BIKE PARK

Some of New Zealand’s best downhill mountain bike trails.

From Wanaka, it's a short journey on to  Queenstown , where along with some great mountain bike trails you'll also find a whole array of other adventure activities.

The Skyline Gondola , near Queenstown's centre, will transport you and your bike to the top of Bob's Peak where you will find the Queenstown Bike Park . Here you'll find a whole range of downhill tracks through the forest. Once you're done, there are plenty of other mountain bike trails to check out or simply relax with a soak in a hot pool overlooking the Shotover River.

Driving in New Zealand

Important things you need to know about driving in New Zealand.

View the route below

Getting around.

Getting around New Zealand is easy with a great range of transport options available.

Where to stay

There are plenty of accommodation options for every budget and travel style.

Weather & Seasons

No matter the season, the majority of our main attractions are open year-round.

Money & Costs

More information on basic costs for accommodation, travel and food.

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Cycling Tours in NZ: Enjoy the Scenic Beauty

Adventure lovers adore our accessible cycling tours along the NZ South Island. You can look forward to enjoying breathtaking views whether you ride for leisure or the challenge of diverse terrains for performance.

Enjoy a Sense of Freedom With Our Bike Tours in NZ

We operate from Twizel, in the heart of the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana), to the Alps to Ocean (A2O -) Cycle Trail. We’ve conducted excursions from here since the day the trail opened and have extensive local knowledge and experience about our region to share with you. We have established strong relationships with suppliers along the path to provide our guests with an immersive experience.

New Zealand Cycling Tours

Our A2O tours range from express to fully supported. You also have the option of day trips and self-guided itineraries. Don’t hesitate - to contact us to discuss our fun cycling tours in NZ.

• Express Tour

"This trip and the tour guides exceeded all expectations! First, we never realized that "Alps 2 Ocean" is an actual designated trail with signs and directional markings at every turn. No need to worry about getting lost on this trail. The scenery is absolutely stunning, starting from the very beginning at the base of Mt. Cook, New Zealand's tallest mountain. Our tour guide Lewis picked up our group in Christchurch and made the five-hour drive to the start of the ride. The only communication issue was Tripsite said we had to be picked up in Christchurch. During the drive, our guide said they could have picked us up in Queenstown, which would have left only a two-hour drive to the start. We had flown the previous day from Queenstown to Christchurch just to be picked up. Mark, the new owner of the tour company, will remedy this with Tripsite. " - Edwin (Wynn) W. (Part 1)

"Mark was with us the first two days and drove us back to the Christchurch airport after the completion of the trip. Super nice guy. This was only the second group since he purchased the Cycle Adventures company and it is obvious he is focused on making it an amazing customer experience for all. Lewis, was with us all week. Cannot praise him enough. First, he is just a wonderful and personable human being. Very funny and supportive and made everyone feel at ease with his description of each section of the route. Second, each afternoon he checked the bike to make sure they were tuned up and ready for the next day. Third, he is a gourmet chef. Every day, he would prepare the most amazing salads and lunches for us along the route. He always found breathtaking lunch and coffee stops that just continued the feeling that we were on vacation in a magical location. Lewis is a rockstar. Accommodations were very special. The first night at Braemer Station had the most amazing views of the entire trip. It felt like we were in the Sound of Music. Every location was super clean, and the owners were so delightful and customer service-focused. I never realized how good the food is in New Zealand. Thank goodness we were riding each day because we certainly ate well. Bottom-line, it was the trip of a lifetime and it exceeded every expection. Highly recommend." - Edwin (Wynn) W. (Part 2)

"The Alps2Ocean was such a fantastic journey and Cycle Ventures were just the best hosts you could wish for - the food, the accommodation, the facilities, the local knowledge was all amazing. I loved that everything was taken care of and we just had to concentrate on riding and taking in the wonderful scenery. If you are thinking about riding the Alps2Ocean JUST DO IT and go with Cycle Ventures, you won’t regret it." - Kerrie Jarman

"This turned out to be the highlight of our entire NZ trip! Mark and Lewis were great - equipment was in great shape and they took super good care of us along the way. The food and lodging was perfect for the trip and lots of fun. The trail is phenomenal - the best way to get to know New Zealand. Well done Cycle Ventures!!!!" - Tom Walsh

"Kerrie and I rode the Alps to Ocean with Mark and a great group of fellow riders. The ride was challenging as we rode non e-bikes but we thoroughly enjoyed it. We had great support and were rewarded each evening with great accommodation and food. The ride offered a combination of different riding surfaces adding to the challenge but gave us a sense of achievement at the end of the day. Fantastic scenery at every turn kept us going throughout the ride. We would definitely recommend this ride and we will definitely be coming back for more. - Kevin and Kerrie Jarman" - Kevin Jarman

"Cycle Ventures were fantastic. Lewis, our guide arrived right on time at my Christchurch hotel and off we went to Mt Cook collecting our crew as we went. Everything went to plan and was well organised. Accommodation and food exceeded expectations and our guide was a great communicator and all round good chap! The Norco bikes provided were comfortable and well serviced and Lewis was an expert at tuning them up for the day ahead. Highly recommend Mark and his team at Cycle Ventures" - Phillip Baker

"We had the best time with Mark and Lewis. Fantastic trip. It wasn't until we got back and compared our trip with the neighbours (who had done A2O with another tour company) that we realized how lucky we were to be with Cycle Ventures -small group, roll-in, roll-out venues with awesome comfortable accommodation, fantastic meals, personal service, and friendly people. So many little touches that just made the trip an all-time highlight. Trip of a lifetime." - LeAnne Blakelock

"There is a saying out there, underpromise and overdeliver. This company did just that. We didn't do much research about them before we signed up but the trip was fantastic. Lewis was a chef, in addition to being an all around great guy and cyclist. Every meal was amazing. The bikes were fitted to us, and tinkered with if they didn't work the way we wanted. Every accommodation was one of a kind and glorious. We rode the Alps 2 Ocean. This is not an easy ride, but it eBikes make it possible for any level of rider. It ended up being a life memory. Every day held another adventure. We spent a month in NZ and this was the capstone at the end. I cannot recommend Mark and Lewis and Cycle Ventures enough." - Peter Parnegg

"I had an absolutely fantastic week on the Alps2Ocean with Mark at Cycling Ventures. Great food, great company, great accommodation and stunning scenery. Mark was the perfect host/guide and really looked after us. Highly recommended." - Stuart Paterson

Want to join one of our tours or just have a query? Drop us a line here and we'll be back in touch asap with more info.

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• Self Guided

New Zealand South Island E-Bike Trail Tour

Daily distance, 20-40 miles, included activities, cycling (e-bikes included), "waka" paddle, jet boat ride, tranzalpine train, included meals, all breakfasts included. one lunch and two dinners on your own..

Breathtaking scenery and pristine coastline are just a couple of reasons why New Zealand is a cyclist’s Trip of a Lifetime. But did you know that they also have an incredible network of traffic-free gravel trails? Explore some of the best bike trails in New Zealand from the comfort of an E-Bike. Blast up hills with ease and let the scenery take your breath away instead! Our 10-day tour gives the perfect taste of the best trails in the South Island (~75% of the miles are unpaved). From the world famous Alps 2 Ocean with views of New Zealand’s highest mountains and the region’s full symphony of color, to the stark beauty of The Roxburgh Gorge and its incredible river riding steeped in gold mining history, the newly opened and most spectacular Greatest Ride in New Zealand – the Lake Dunstan Trail (an engineering feat that needs to be seen to be believed), the serene beauty of the Queenstown trails and finally over to the Wild West – 2 days on the West Coast Wilderness trail riding through incredible rain forests and showcasing some of the area’s best scenery. We finish the tour with a spectacular train journey over Arthur’s Pass via the TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch. Sightseeing on 2 wheels has never looked so good, nor been so easy!

COMPARE! A SPECIAL LODGING NOTE: Our 10-day tour includes lodging for all 10 days of the itinerary!

Arrive in Christchurch, go for a test ride, and paddle a "waka" while you learn about the cultural traditions and history of New Zealand.

Quest Cathedral Junction (in Christchurch)

After settling in at the hotel, we meet for the first time in the afternoon for a bike fitting and short test ride before jumping right into the history of New Zealand. Paddle a “waka” – a large traditional hand-built canoe – on the Ōtākaro Avon River while you learn about the culture of the Maori and their interactions with early European settlers (included in tour cost). Lodging tonight is at Quest Cathedral Junction .

Cycle from Lake Pukaiki to Lake Ohau with views of the Ben Ohau Range and New Zealand's highest peak.

– Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

Lake Ohau Lodge or Lakes Motel

35 miles (56km)

+1171 ft / -1208 ft

We leave Christchurch early and drive south (3.5-4hrs) through the Canterbury Plains heading Lake Pukaiki and Twizel for our first ride. Cycle along Lake Pukaiki with stunning views of Mt. Cook / Aoraki. Pass through the township of Twizel and continue along the Alps2Ocean trail to Lake Ohau. The Ben Ohau Range dwarfs all and sundry as we follow the lakeshore towards Lake Ohau Village – perfectly positioned for post-ride refreshments, and our accommodation for the night at Lake Ohau Lodge , or Lakes Motel .

Ride the "Alps2Ocean" trail along Lake Benmore and Lake Aviemore.

Marsden Lake Resort

32 miles (52km)

+1,498 ft / -2,010 ft

After breakfast at the lodge, we take a short drive (~1/2hr) to Omarama, where we will continue along another (and newest) section of the A2O. Cycling along Lake Benmore and then taking in the newly opened section from Sailors Cutting to Benmore Dam is an incredible experience with amazing scenery. Continue riding to Aviemore Dam, where the van will be waiting to transport the group (~2hrs) to Cromwell for the night. Lodging is at Marsden Lake Resort .

Experience the Lake Dunstan trail, one of the most unique bike routes in the world!

Olivers Central Otago

31 miles (50km)

+1974 ft / -2082 ft

Ride the Lake Dunstan Trail today, one of the newest trails in New Zealand. Follow the waterside most of the day as you pedal along the lake to the historic town of Cromwell and onward through Cromwell Gorge. The spectacular trail engineering and incredible views truly make this a one-of-a-kind route. The trail ends in Clyde, where we spend the night. Lodging is at Olivers Central Otago .

Navigate Roxburgh Gorge by bicycle and boat before heading to Queenstown.

Garden Court

+1,400 ft / -1,621 ft

After another beautiful breakfast, we head out on our bikes first thing to ride the stunning Roxburgh Gorge. The trail also incorporates a 45-minute boat ride up the river (included in tour cost). At the end of the ride, the group will be transported to Queenstown (~2hrs), our destination for the next 2 nights. Lodging is at the Garden Court .

Enjoy a relaxing layover day in Queenstown, or take an excursion to one the nearby wonders.

– Breakfast

Today we’ll put our bikes aside to give you a chance to break free from the group and explore one or more of the many activities the Queenstown area has to offer. (All activities are optional and not included in the tour package). Maybe you’d like to take an excursion to Milford or Doubtful Sound, or a steamboat ride over to Walter Peak for a Farm Tour and afternoon tea or bbq dinner … the options are many and diverse! Or you may just wish to relax and spend some time wandering the town exploring the cafes and shops along the waterfront. Enjoy another night at the Garden Court. Lunch and dinner are on your own today in Queenstown.

Take the Queenstown Trail through legendary Arrowtown to the equally renowned Kawarau Suspension Bridge.

Wanaka Hotel

25 miles (40km)

+1,368 ft / -1,261 ft

In the morning we’ll bike the incredible Queenstown Trail to the legendary gold mining town of Arrowtown. Then from Arrowtown, follow a cycle path to Kawarau Bridge. Home of AJ Hackett’s bungy center, we will stop and watch a few brave souls fling themselves from the bridge. Afterwards, we will be driven (~1hr) over the Crown Range, with a photo and refreshment stop at the famous Cardrona Hotel and then on to Wanaka where we will spend the night. Lodging is at the Wanaka Hotel .

Pedal from Wanaka to Lake Hawea and enjoy a scenic drive through Mt Aspiring National Park to Fox Glacier.

Lake Matheson Motel or Heartland Hotel

16 miles (26km)

+728 ft / -495 ft

We jump on the bikes first thing this morning from the hotel and ride out to Lake Hawea for a spot of lunch. The van will then take us through the Mt Aspiring National Park to Fox Glacier for the evening (~4hrs). Time permitting, a short walk at Ship Creek is a great way to stretch the legs on the way. Lodging is at Lake Matheson Motel , or Heartland Hotel .

Enjoy Lake Matheson in the morning. Then cycle along the ocean on the West Coast Wilderness Trail to Hokitika in the afternoon.

– Breakfast – Lunch

Beachfront Hotel

21 miles (34km)

+697 ft / -812 ft

This morning presents a great opportunity to take a sunrise hike around Lake Matheson with its reflective water views, or just relax in the beautiful surroundings. Mid-morning, we head north to Ross where we hop on our bikes to start our first ride on the West Coast Wilderness Trail. We ride from Ross to Hokitika today. Lodging is at the Beachfront Hotel , and dinner is on your own tonight.

Last Day! After pedaling more of the West Coast Wilderness trail in the morning we board the TranzAlpine train for a spectacular journey over the mountains back to Christchurch.

18 miles (29km)

+340 ft / -593 ft

Spend your final morning in the “Land of the Long White Cloud” cycling another stretch of the West Coast Wilderness trail – this time from Kumara to Greymouth. We arrive in time to board the TranzAlpine for your spectacular train journey over Arthur’s Pass and back to Christchurch for a farewell dinner. Lodging at Quest Cathedral Junction .

The following day (Day 11) is a departure day only. No meals or services are included.

Availability

Tour guides.

Michelle L. Anderson

Shantel Thilman

Bikes (bike models will differ.) e-bike recommended..

Pedal Assist E-Bike $200 surcharge applies

Ready for your next adventure.

Book in one of our spectacular tours, and lock in at last season prices! Limited time only.

Committed to comfort.

We design adventures for any age, stage or fitness level. Choose from one of our many tours, covering the South Island’s best cycle trails.

Fully supported, you can choose to e-bike, bring your own steed, come with a group, or join a cohort of other intrepid solo riders. Come adventure in comfort, with PureTrails.

Explore the beauty of the South Island by bike.

The epic Alps 2 Ocean trail. The wild & rugged West Coast Wilderness & Kawatiri tour. The spectacular Lake Dunstan, the Gorges & Wanaka trail. Take your pick, or pick them all.

We’ve perfected the art of thoughtful hospitality paired with extensively researched, well paced, achievable bike trips.

Think delicious home baking for morning and afternoon smoko, picnic lunches, squishyily comfortable bike seats and a pace relaxed enough to soak up the magnificent scenery.

Alps 2 Ocean Easy

West coast wilderness & kawatiri, otago rail trail.

Frequently asked questions.

How fit do i need to be.

PureTrails NZ cycle tour packages are suitable for healthy people of all ages with an average level of fitness who enjoy cycling. The majority of the bike rides are on gravel surfaces and the cycling is dispersed with plenty of breaks to explore local sights encountered, take photos, talk with the locals, rest, enjoy refreshments and to simply take in the scenery. Those who are not comfortable participating in all the biking are always welcome to join our support vehicle, or bring or hire an e-bike! - remember it is about enjoying the tour, don't turn it into an endurance event! Check out our Bike FAQ’s for more information on e-bikes.

We do recommend you put in some training, so you gain the most enjoyment out of your cycling holiday. We encourage you to get out and do some biking on gravel roads if possible, starting out gently and gradually building up to 2-3 longer bike rides (20km+) per week during the month prior to your tour. For Grade 2 tours you should be comfortable to cycle 40km in a day. The secret is to start slowly and increase your exercise gradually. The fitter you are the more enjoyable your bike tour will be.

Is a support vehicle always available?

Absolutely yes. You are welcome to ride in the van at any time – no explanation is required. Some want a lift for just a few kilometres; others have ridden in the van for the entire trip. It’s your holiday – you decide. Our vehicles are comfortable 16-seat buses. They have been fitted out with comfort in mind and offer superior viewing of the scenery as we travel the South Island.

How do I book?

Booking is easy, just fill out the contact form to register your interest and get your booking underway. We will get back to you with a quote and more information about the trip, and then for you to pay a deposit to confirm.

Testimonials

"This is a trail that would have been very difficult to achieve as an individual, especially in the older age group. With the support and knowledge of back up and a ‘mother ship’ it made it possible to complete the 320km ride, enjoy the beauty and challenges this trail has. Again without the support I couldn’t have achieved my goal of riding from the Alps to Ocean." Peter Beames | NSW

"I'm impressed at how far PureTrails has come since I rode the Rail Trail 11 years ago. It was superb then, now even more polished!!" Marilyn Burton | Auckland

"We recently did the Alps to Ocean Easy. From start to finish every day was a highlight. The scenery was breathtaking and the weather amazing. Our wonderful guide Megan, along with Ann really went out of their way to make our days as enjoyable as possible, with attention to every detail. Nothing was ever a bother. The accommodation was great as were the meals. The homemade baking was such a treat. We would highly recommend PureTrails and will definitely be doing another tour with them." Cheri | Rotorua

"We both enjoyed this trip enormously. We were looked after extremely well by Megan who made sure that we got as much out of the trip as was possible. The company was great and everyone got on extremely well and looked out for each other. Megan was always nearby if any problems occurred. The beauty of the scenery was beyond our wildest expectations. Would happily repeat the whole cycle. Also enjoyed the wonderful home made cakes that we had for our coffee stops!!!" Gaye Watts | New Plymouth

"This was my first Multi Day tour and it left me wanting more. The trail was simply spectacular. The PureTrails organization made it a trip to remember, well done and I will definitely come back to experience more of New Zealand with PureTrails. " Allan Martin | VIC

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For over 30 years we've been creating active holidays in some of New Zealand's most outstanding locations. Whether you enjoy cycle trails, road cycling, mountain biking or walking, Adventure South NZ can help you to explore New Zealand at your own pace. Let us introduce you to the natural wonder that is NZ and join one of our small group, guided adventures.

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With over 40 active adventures, including the largest range of cycling holidays in New Zealand, we're confident in the originality and quality of our trips. By innovating new trips and bettering our existing ones, even the most experienced traveller will find inspiration within our range.

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Since 1992, we've helped shape the way travellers explore New Zealand's outdoors. Our team's unrivalled knowledge and experience means you can rely on us to deliver a memorable and enjoyable active holiday.

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10 Best Bike Trails on the South Island 🚵‍♂️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the south island’s top trails for the pedalling enthusiast.

So much scenery and so little time. The South Island of New Zealand is truly a place to indulge in nature. One great way to get away from civilisation, challenge yourself and see more sights quickly is by cycling the South Island’s bike trails. Trails range from the easy and breezy around picturesque lakes to mighty missions in the mountains! Choose from the best bike trails on the South Island from the list below, and remember, day rides of the trails are an awesome option if you don’t want to peddle on a multi-day mission.

Different Grades of Cycle Trails on the South Island:

A good place to start in choosing a bike trail is picking one to suit your ability and fitness. In New Zealand, the difficulty of bike trail is marked by grades, which are as follows:

• Grade 1 : Wide and smooth trails that are easy for all riders.
• Grade 2 : Same as grade 1 but add some hills.
• Grade 3 : It starts to get tough! These tracks are only suitable for mountain bikes.
• Grade 4 : Brace yourself, these tracks are for experienced mountain bikers only.

And if your trip includes visiting the North Island, be sure to also check out the  10 Best Bike Trails on the North Island .

1. Great Taste Trail

Named for its route through the fertile lands of vineyards and orchards, along with its artisanry delights, the Great Taste Trail is a must for any foodie . The trail is perfect for those looking to make the most of the sunny Nelson Tasman region with scenic views of Tasman Bay, the Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges. On the other hand, riders looking for a tough challenge should look to the Coppermine Trail in the same area. Cycle hire and transport can be organised with Kiwi Journeys . Find out more about the Great Taste Trail and Coppermine Trail in our guide to Mountain Biking in Nelson Tasman .

Length : 200km (124 miles), 1-4 days. Grade : 2 and 3 – Having a bit of mountain biking experience is a big help on this trail. Location : Nelson Tasman .

2. Queen Charlotte Track

Bike along historical bays like Ship Cove Meretoto to luxuriant coastal forest and mountain rims revealing unmatched views of the Marlborough Sounds . Day rides of the iconic Queen Charlotte Trail can be achieved with water taxi transport, or cycle the entirety of this enchanting trail and stay in a choice of scenic campsites to luxurious waterfront lodges. Find out more about the trail in our guide, Mountain Biking in Marlborough or The Ultimate Guide to the Queen Charlotte Track .

Length : 71km (44 miles), 1-5 days. Grade : 3 and 4. Following improvements to the trail in 2019 it is now significantly easier. Location : Picton , Marlborough.

3. Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

Starting at New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook , and finishing on the shore of the Pacific Ocean in Oamaru , the South Island’s longest bike trail wanders through a world heritage national park, tussock lands, limestone cliffs and glacial lakes. There are a series of rewarding day sections of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail , while cycling the complete 5-6 days journey through (arguably) some of the South Island’s best scenery is an unforgettable experience.

Length : 315km (196 miles), 1-6 days. Grade : 2 and 3 – The main challenge of this trail is its length. Location : Mt Cook , Lake Ohau, Omarama , Waitaki Valley , Oamaru .

4. Queenstown Trail

This trail is strategically placed to showcase the best of the Queenstown area, such as the Gibbston vineyard district (also known as the Valley of Vines), the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown , the peaceful shores of Lake Hayes , and the adrenaline-filled Queenstown . Bike hire and transport to the Queenstown Trail can be organised by Around the Basin Bike Tours and Going Blue Queenstown .

Length : 138km (86 miles), 1-4 days. Grade : 2 and 3 – The average level rider will be able to take on this trail, but any lower level will have a hard time. Location : Queenstown .

5. The Old Ghost Road

This is a tough one! In fact, this bike trail is one of the hardest in the country. Nonetheless, The Old Ghost Road is so unique that it attracts many avid peddlers! Riding partly on alpine ridges, partly in native rainforest, and partly in a valley filled with peaceful lakes, this West Coast trail on a resurrected gold miners’ route might just leave you breathless for different reasons… Learn more about this legendary bike trail in our guide,  Mountain Biking on the West Coast .

Length : 81km (50 miles), 2-4 days. Grade : 4 – Be ready for some intense mountain biking. Location : Between Westport and Karamea , West Coast .

6. West Coast Wilderness Trail

This trail is unique in its conception, as it links old tracks, water races, logging tramways and old railway lines from the West Coast’s iconic mining era. History is not the only thing the West Coast Wilderness Trail has going for it, as it is the best trail to tackle if you are looking to immerse yourself in the wetlands, lush rainforests, pristine rivers and rugged beaches that make up the West Coast of New Zealand. Find out more about this easy-going ride in our guide to  Mountain Biking on the West Coast .

Length : 133km (83 miles), 4-5 days. Grade : 2 and 3 – This is an easy ride; no need to be a pro to enjoy it. Location : Greymouth , Kumara, Hokitika and Ross, West Coast .

7. Otago Central Rail Trail

The  Otago Central Rail Trail is the jewel of the Otago region. The trail follows the disused railway from Clyde to the township of Middlemarch through stunning mountainous and rocky landscapes. The ride is actually very easy. The difficulty lies in its length, but with so much to see along the way like a viaduct, river gorges, tunnels and historic towns, you cannot go wrong. If you don’t have the four days minimum required to tackle this trail, check out the 12 Super Scenic Cycle Trails in Otago for shorter days rides on the trail.

Length : 152km (94 miles), 1-5 days. Grade : 1 – This is the easiest ride on the South Island. Location : Central Otago .

8. Roxburgh Gorge Trail

Totally isolated from the rest of the region and from civilisation altogether, the trail follows the rocky Roxburgh Gorge for most of its course. The Roxburgh Gorge Trail takes you through a dry and deserted landscape far from your typical New Zealand landscape. A section of the trail has to be done by boat, so be prepared and look into booking it ahead. Find out more in our guide to Mountain Biking in the Catlins and Clutha District .

Length : 21km (13 miles), 1 day. Grade : 2 – This is quite an easy one. If you know how to cycle, you’ll be fine. Location : Alexandra , Central Otago.

9. St James Cycle Trail

This is the perfect mountain biking trail for those not so used to cycling but still looking for a challenge. Some technical parts make the St James Cycle Trail really fun, but most of it is an easy ride through the best of New Zealand’s high country. Bask in the landscape of a historic high country farm in vast valleys of braided rivers and surrounded by mountain peaks. What’s more, you can finish in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools as a well-deserved reward!

Length : 59km (37 miles), 1-2 days. Grade : 3 and 4 – Average riders will enjoy the few challenging parts of this ride. Location: Hanmer Springs , Canterbury.

10. Clutha Gold Trail

The jewel of this track has to be the exquisite Beaumont Gorge . Accessed after kilometres of dense native forest, the gorge leads to a historic railway trail that makes this whole ride of the Clutha Gold Trail very easy to follow. Old mining settlements are also spread along the route, while charming rural villages are a treat to discover with their famous pies, refreshing stonefruit, wild thyme and world-class wine. Learn more about yet another beauty in Central Otago in the  5 Best Bike Trails in Alexandra & Clyde .

Length : 73km (45 miles), 2 days. Grade : 1 and 2 – An easy ride with very little challenge. Location : Roxburgh , Central Otago.

Stick to the Trail: Use the NZ Great Ride App

Free and made in New Zealand, the Great Rides App is specially designed for the NZ Great Rides biking trails, i.e. all of the rides featured on this list of the best bike trails on the South Island! Once you download a trail, the app works fully offline. It is GPS enabled to help you orientate yourself along the trails and includes all the official NZ Great Rides trails plus a few extra tracks. The app is also regularly updated to include new trails such as the Paparoa and even some hiking tracks such as the Heaphy Great Walk. Additionally, check out its companion app, the Great Hikes App , for New Zealand’s hiking trails.

Great Rides App FREE Download : Google Play Store (Android) – NZ Great Ride // App Store (iOS) – NZ Great Ride

More About the Best Bike Trails on the South Island

That’s it for our list of the best bike trails on the South Island of New Zealand. For more cycling shenanigans, check out our other useful guides:

• 10 Best Bike Trails on the North Island

The Best Mountain Biking Regions in New Zealand

• 10 Best Family Bike Rides in New Zealand

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in Mountain Biking in New Zealand: A Complete Guide .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2024])
• Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Our guided and self-guided tours are  fully booked for the current season.  We are now taking bookings for October 2024 onwards.

10-Night E-bike Trail Tour of the South Island

10-Night E-bike Trail Tour - Christchurch to Christchurch

Explore some of the best bike trails in the South Island - all from the comfort of an Ebike.  Blast up hills with ease and enjoy breathtaking scenery, from lake Tekapo, to Queenstown, to Lake Dunstan, the Roxburgh Gorge and much more.  There really is something here for everyone in this spectacular tour.

• Starts/Finishes: Christchurch, New Zealand
• Ebiking predominantly on trails
• Easy to Intermediate biking - Grades 1-3

2024/25 Tour Dates: 19th January 2024 - 29th January 2024 - SOLD OUT 4th February 2024 - 14th February 2024 - SOLD OUT 27th March 2024 - 6th April 2024 - SOLD OUT 16th November 2024 - 26th November 2024 - 1 place remaining 10th January 2025 – 20th  January 2025  - 1 place remaining 8th February 2025 – 18th  February 2025 -  SOLD OUT 8th March 2025 – 18th  March 2025 - 3 places remaining 25th March 2025 – 4th  April 2025 - 8 places remaining

Tour Price: NZD $5949 per person NZD   $1399 single room supplement

All prices in NZ Dollars (NZD)

Minimum 6 and maximum 12 guests per tour.  

A $500 deposit is required to secure your place on the tour.  

Tour Itinerary Summary

DAY 1 : Christchurch DAY 2 : Christchurch to Lake Ohau - Alps to Ocean Day 3:  Lake Ohau to Cromwell - Alps to Ocean Day 4:  Cromwell to Clyde - Lake Dunstan Trail Day 5:  Clyde to Queenstown - Roxburgh Gorge Trail Day 6:  Queenstown - Rest Day Day 7:  Queenstown to Wanaka - Queenstown Trail Day 8:  Wanaka to Fox Glacier - Lake Hawea Trail Day 9:  Fox Glacier to Hokitika - West Coast Wilderness  Day 10: Hokitika to Christchurch - West Coast Wilderness  Day 11:  Departure Day

Tour Includes:

x10 nights in mostly 4 - 5 star accommodation (pre and post nights can be arranged on request for an additional cost)

x8 breakfasts, x3 dinners, 8 Lunches & Daily Snacks

Air-conditioned Mercedes Benz Sprinter Coach

Luggage transport during the entire journey (luggage is transported on the bus during the cycling stages)

2 guides/drivers

Jet Boat Ride in Roxburgh Gorge

TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch

E-bike hire

Multi tool, tyre levers, spare tube and repair kit

All Department of Conservation fees and trail fees

Tour Excludes:

• Meals/food not included in itinerary
• International or domestic flights and taxes
• Travel Insurance
• Airport transfers (can be arranged on request for additional cost)
• Drinks (except water during the cycling), telephone & mini-bar costs
• Personal expenses such as laundry, any internet charges etc
• Drink bottles
• Helmet.  It is law that Helmet’s must be worn and they can be purchased for guests prior to arrival for $35, or you are welcome to bring your own

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Deals of the Week   Solo is the new black   Up to 50% OFF

New Zealand South Island Tours & Trips

Fuel your inner adrenaline-junkie in Queenstown , cruise on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound, or trek up the icy slopes of the mighty Franz Josef Glacier , spark your sense of adventure with a New Zealand South Island tour. From peaceful walks on the Routeburn Track to the exquisite crushed grapes of Marlborough , you'll soon discover why NZ is called the Adventure Capital of the World.

192 New Zealand South Island tour packages with 1,985 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

New Zealand: South Island Encompassed

The itinerary was very good always busy but I would of liked an extra day in kaikora and maybe a bit more time in Christchurch. The bus ride was very comfy and always entertaining it just got bit to hot sometimes. All the hostels was very good unfortunately we wasn’t able to make it franz Josef and had a night Dunedin and that hostle wasn’t very clean and didn’t feel safe their. 4 stars for meal didn’t mean to click 3 food was good could of done with couple extra meals. Sparkles was amazing she so bubbly and fun always made sure everyone was okay even when the landslide happened she was so chilled out and made such a poor situation all good and didn’t course stress , wonderful women and hope to see her again!!!

• Sightseeing

Southern Voyager

Awesome trip, great guide and plenty of activities to do.

New Zealand South Island Express

Great tour! We got to see so many places in such a short amount of time, and I had a great time. Made some friends during the whole time! Will be heading to see the North Island next year! I’m already looking forward to exploring! ????????

• In-depth Cultural

Ben and Daisy were fantastic tour guides. If you like smaller groups, then this is definitely the best way to explore the south island while making friends along the way

NZ Adventure South

Not too bad, just Nomad’s hostel was bad

NZ Adventure 17 Day

The tour was amazing! I had so much fun! It was organised so well, while still enabling us to have our own time and do our own activities! Travelling between each location was always super easy, either with a shuttle or intercity buses. Both local bus drivers were great! They gave us so much knowledge on the area, happy to answer any questions and always being so lovely! So many amazing activities were included and anything else we wanted to do our amazing tour guide organised all for us! Our tour leader, Emily, went absolutely above and beyond! She always went that extra mile with everyone to ensure that everyone had the best time possible and could do everything they wanted to do! We had the best time with her- she kept on top of everything and kept everything organised without us ever feeling like she was our teacher telling us what to do.

• Hiking & Trekking

Queenstown Southern Loop

Although Rod, the driver was very nice I felt that Intrepid had not organised the tour as well as previous Intrepid tours I have done. It was very overpriced for what was provided. The van had a broken seat belt attachment with a sharp edge which ruined a down jacket I had bought for the trip. I have asked Intrepid about it but received no reply.

South Island Lick Tour

Excellent - but get a private room.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

New Zealand Journey National Geographic Journeys

The beauty of the the country and the tour organization made it fantastic.

New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound, 9 Days)

Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium New Zealand South Island

Premium New Zealand Encompassed (32 destinations)

New Zealand: Sweet As South (Eastbound, 9 Days)

• Coach / Bus

Southern Spectacular (10 Days)

Isabel and Stu were so knowledgeable and fun throughout the tour! What an educational and exciting tour.

NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands

New Zealand and my itinerary was perfect! I had to be efficient since I only had 10 days and wanted to see both islands of NZ. The Highlights Tour put together by Bucket List Tours was exactly what I was hoping for and it exceeded my expectations. Before leaving the US, Bucket List Tours connected with me and made sure we were able to communicate throughout my trip via WhatsApp. And that was super helpful since there were a number of times where I was able to clarify logistical items on the itinerary to ensure such things as being at the right pickup locations for scheduled day tours. Bucket Lisr Tours was always very responsive and helped me do everything I had on my list for New Zealand. I would highly recommend Bucket List Tours to anyone and am already planning on using them again in the future!

What people love about New Zealand South Island Tours

Excellent tour. Definitely recommend

One of the best experiences of my life, made possible by the incredibly talented and charismatic Daisy! This was well organized with all of the logistics taken care of for you while having the freedom to pick what activities interest you most. The group setting was fun and a nice bonding expensive of people from around the world. Some of the hostel stays were great, some were just ok, but all were clean and had the essentials.

Great tour! We got to see so many places in such a short amount of time, and I had a great time. Made some friends during the whole time! Will be heading to see the North Island next year! I’m already looking forward to exploring! ??

New Zealand South Island Tours starting in:

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Other Regions in New Zealand

• New Zealand North Island (113)
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Travel Styles

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Popular Searches

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New Zealand South Island Multi-Adventure Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

From $5,899 - $6,649 /person

Activity Levels 1-3

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Casual Hotels*

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : Nov-Dec 2025 : Jan-Mar, Nov-Dec 2026 : Jan, Mar

Mountains & Rugged Coast from Christchurch to Queenstown

Scenery doesn't get any more incredible than in New Zealand. On a bike and on foot, you're in the middle of it all. Ever-changing natural beauty through your sunglasses. Ocean mist in your face. Island-fresh air in your lungs to complement that bit of sweat on your brow. The sheep have it made here. This week, they aren't the only ones.

• Marvel at verdant rain forests, wild rivers, crashing waves and rugged coastline on the beautiful Tasman Sea
• Raft the mystical Kawarau River, cross an iconic swing bridge and trek beneath the Rob Roy hanging glacier
• Bike and hike through dramatic varied scenery and mountain ranges, finishing in a Pinot grape-growing wine region
• Discover the many charms and secrets of Arrowtown, rich in gold mining history, and Hokitika, renowned for its jade

New Zealand

Start Christchurch

End Queenstown

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into Christchurch (CHC) and out of Queenstown (ZQN).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Gear up for awe-inspiring activities in one of the world's greatest outdoor playgrounds • Travel to Arthur's Pass, soaking up views of the diverse landscapes • Lush native flora lines our trail in this famed hiking area • Hike to the epic peaks of Bealey Spur and look out over the milky-blue Waimakariri River • Settle in at our charming wilderness lodge.

A welcoming mountain retreat and high-country sheep station surrounded by a beech forest and frosted peaks.

Take in glaciers, rain forests and the dramatic Tasman Sea • Bike along tranquil roads to historic Hokitika, famous for its crafts and jade carvings • Dine on fresh local cuisine at our peaceful forest retreat.

A serene hotel that provides for every comfort—even offering a pillow menu. (spa)

Venture through old-growth forests to Westland National Park, with the receding face of the Franz Josef Glacier, one of New Zealand's natural wonders, off in the distance • Cycle to the quaint coastal village of Okarito, once a gold-mining boom town • Opt for a scenic helicopter ride over the glacial terrain • Sip a post-hike cocktail by the river at our cozy rain forest hideaway • Kayak the crystal-clear waters of Lake Moeraki or go exploring with a lodge naturalist.

This riverside lodge offers cozy guest rooms and excellent cuisine in a remote rain forest setting.

Bike along a pristine rugged coastline to the sleepy fishing village of Jackson Bay • Discover the waterfall-laced Haast World Heritage area, home to some of New Zealand's highest mountains, longest glaciers and wildest rivers unmatched anywhere in the world, according to UNESCO • In Mount Aspiring National Park, hike to a spectacular viewpoint below the iconic Rob Roy hanging glacier.

On the shore of Lake Wanaka with views of the magnificent Southern Alps.

World-class bike routes and foot trails in the mountain playground surrounding Lake Wanaka are yours to explore • Opt for an excursion to scenic Milford Sound • Admire the spectacularly varied scenery and savor lunch in Pinot Noir country • Stay in picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital • Raft down the Kawarau River with expert guides who provide a unique perspective on the flora and fauna along the way • Experience the historic charm of Arrowtown, a quaint gold mining town nestled in the mountains • Extend your stay in picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital.

Set on a sprawling estate, this luxurious retreat offers style, tranquility and mountain views. (pool, spa)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

In order to access the most scenic routes and significant points of interest on this trip, strategic shuttles are incorporated into several days of our itinerary. Most will be limited to an hour or so at a time, but on some days you can expect to spend a bit more time in the shuttle—though always to reach a worthwhile destination!

Due to a significant rise in tourism in New Zealand, the South Island has seen an increase in car traffic along its western coast.  While our shuttles are often along these busier roads, we ride on scenic bike routes off the main highway to ensure your safety while still delivering as much of New Zealand's grandeur and stunning scenery. Keep in mind that even on quieter roads, vehicles may move at faster speeds than you might expect.

While our hotels are some of the finest in New Zealand, the relaxed Kiwi approach to service is reflected in the hotels on this trip—they are down-to-earth, without a lot of bells and whistles, and may not offer the level of customer service that you might be used to.

Want to learn more about this trip?

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Adventure-Ready Hotels

Ideally located with ready access to trip activities, our Casual hotels are also known for their character and charm.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Casual Hotel

* Premiere Hotel

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Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Included in your trip price

• Ideal for avid cyclists
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• Drop handlebars only

Performance Road Bike Sizing & Geometry

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• Suited for a wide range of cyclists
• Comfortable ergonomic seat
• Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
• Upright handlebars only

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• One of the lightest e-bikes available
• Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

Backroads Electric-Assist Bike Sizing & Geometry

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• New Zealand

Storm the South Island

• Level Intermediate +
• Duration 10 days / 9 nights
• Riders (max) 10
• Region Oceania
• Price (per person) £3,750 / €4,500 / $5,063

LUSH RAINFOREST, SNOW-CAPPED PEAKS, ARID PLAINS, ENDLESS COASTLINE. WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

It’s not hard to see why New Zealand is often used as the backdrop to blockbuster films. With some of the planet’s most diverse microclimates jam-packed into one little country, every day of your north-to-south adventure through the South Island will bring something new to take your breath away.

From the rainforest of the Old Ghost Road, to the arid landscapes of Alexandra, and the spectacular drive along the west coast with its glaciers, you’ll be blown away by the endless natural beauty of New Zealand.

To find out if this intermediate+ MTB tour on New Zealand’s South Island is right for you, read more on the skill and fitness levels required .

Tour Flavour

2024/ 25 tour dates.

• 19 February 2024 - 28 February 2024 Trip full
• 8 December 2024 - 17 December 2024 8 spaces left Book Now
• 10 February 2025 - 19 February 2025 10 spaces left Book Now

• Waking up in a mountain hut overlooking the rainforest canopy
• Driving the beautiful West Coast road
• Staying in quirky accommodation steeped in history
• Riding in multiple different eco-systems
• Savouring delicious local food and craft beers
• Sipping world-famous New Zealand wines

Tour itinerary

The itinerary for our incredible mountain bike tour New Zealand has been designed to flow perfectly, maximising your time on the best trails in the most spectacular spots in the South Island, whilst minimising time in the van.

You should arrive in Christchurch the day before your tour start date, to allow for any travel or baggage delays, and to give yourself time to relax after your long journey and before your adventure begins.

We will recommend pre-trip accommodation and your guide will meet you there on the morning of day 1.

Your guides will meet you at the designated pre-trip hotel in the morning. We’ll transfer to our local base so you can build your bike or get kitted out with a rental.

Once everyone’s geared up, your guide will go through the all-important pre-trip briefing before hitting the road.

Your warm-up ride in New Zealand will be a traverse of the volcanic crater rim that separates Christchurch from the impressive Lyttelton harbour. You’ll have the chance to shake-down your bikes and legs before we drop into the fantastic Christchurch Adventure Park.

Eat well and muster up all your strength over breakfast, because today we hit Craigieburn – world-renowned for its flowing singletrack trails that weave and wind through the area’s beautiful beech forests.

The mountainous terrain of the Craigieburn Range has spectacular views that rival the grand majesty of the American Rockies, so we’ll spend most of the day riding through and enjoying the varied trails Craigieburn has to offer.

After revelling in the fabulous singletrack of Craigieburn, today you’ll need to have your climbing legs with you for the first stage of your two-day adventure through the rainforest.

You’ll step out of the van right into the jungle at the foot of New Zealand’s longest singletrack – the Old Ghost Road. At a fairly easygoing incline of 2%, you’ll winch your way up the bench cut forest track to the ridge peak at 1400m.

As morning light breaks over the treetops, the Bell Birds will raise you from your slumber as their distinctive songs echo from the forest canopy.

We’ll leave the hut on a singletrack leading down the opposite side of the mountain and back towards civilisation. The track leads through a diverse range of scenery as we make our way towards the valley floor.

After a couple of big days on the bike, we have a day off to rest our legs and cover some miles in the van to our next destination.

This is no ordinary transfer, however, as we’ll be driving down the spectacular west coast of the South Island, alongside Franz Josef Glacier and the Southern Alps.

We’ll leave Franz Josef Glacier in our wake and drive south to the stunning small town of Wanaka – the unofficial capital of the great outdoors. The town is nestled at the head of Lake Wanaka and pinned in by the Crown Range mountains.

Our ride today is a locals’ version of the Wanaka Trails. Along the way we’ll enjoy the mountain backdrop, flow trails, and potential for a swim before enjoying a beer in the evening sunshine.

Hope you’re still hungry for more riding, because today we’re tackling the newest ‘bike park’ in the area, the tremendous Glendhu Bay MTB Park.

This is a bike park with a difference and, although you’ll have the benefit of shuttles, you’ll still be riding in magnificent landscapes and doing plenty of pedalling.

After breakfast this morning we’ll drive from Wanaka to our next stop at Alexandra, passing Kawarau Gorge on the way. The Otago landscape is peppered with gold mines and early explorer history, and today you’ll be riding into the thick of it!

We’ll climb up a dry riverbed that will lead us to a rabbit warren of valleys, all dropping off a high plateau that is pock-marked by massive rock formations that look like they’ve rained down from outer space.

For the last day of your adventure we’re going to enjoy the incredible trails around Rude Rock to the absolute max!

Having already ridden some pretty big days, today we’re minimising the climbing and maximising the descending, riding laps of Rude Rock and Zoots, which will blow your mind.

Sadly, it’s time to say farewell to New Zealand and your local team. We will return you to Queenstown airport in time for your onward flight, which you should book no earlier than 10am.

• Plan your trip
• What's included
• Are you ready?
• What bikes?
• Other details

£3,750 GBP/ $5,063 USD/ €4,500 EUR per person (ex. flights, based on two sharing a room)

• Services of fully-qualified, expert mountain bike guide(s) for the duration of the trip
• 9 nights’ accommodation
• All breakfasts, including double coffees, 1 lunch and 5 dinners
• Van snacks and energy drinks
• Kit transfer to mountain hut on day 3
• All transport and luggage transfer required as part of the itinerary
• Airport/ H+I recommended hotel pick-up on day 1 (Christchurch) and drop-off on day 10 (Queenstown) of tour (specified times apply)
• Global Rescue medical and evacuation services
• International/ domestic flights
• Lunches and evening meals not mentioned above
• Bike rental –  £950/ $1283/ €1140
• Travel and activity insurance
• Tourist visas
• Single supplement:* £620 / $837 / €744
• Tips in restaurants and hotels
• Alcoholic/ non-alcoholic beverages
• Personal safety and cycling equipment
• Any other items not mentioned as included

*Single supplement is only applicable if you are travelling solo and do not wish to share a room with another rider of the same sex. If you’re happy to do that, you need not add the supplement.

Please note: single rooms are not available at Ghost Lake Hut and are limited in two other accommodations on the tour

We want you to have the best experience of mountain biking in New Zealand, so it’s important to be sure that this is the perfect mountain bike adventure, with the right level of challenge, for you.

You’re an experienced mountain biker, riding at least twice a week through the season and comfortable on: long climbs on double and singletrack; technical singletrack descents; rough, rocky trails, some with exposure; and muddy forest trails. Read more on our intermediate+ skill level .

Does this sound like you? Your vacation time is precious and we want to be absolutely sure that you’re making the most of it. Be honest with yourself, if this adventure isn’t right for you, we have other MTB tours that may be a better fit for your mountain biking ability.

Please note: The skill level required reflects an overall rating for the trails on the trip but you should expect to find sections and obstacles that push your ability levels.

Skill level: Intermediate+

• You are generally comfortable riding most types of terrain in different conditions: singletrack, double track, muddy, dry, loose, bedrock…
• You can brake, use gears and corner instinctively
• You’ll have a go on moderate technical features, such as small rock gardens, small drops and steeper sections, but may get off and walk certain technical features
• You mountain bike two or three times a week throughout your biking season
• And the ‘+’ part of ‘Intermediate+’ means that you will be aiming to tackle more of those moderate technical features

Fitness level: 6/7

• You have an excellent level of bike fitness, exercising four or five times every week throughout the year, for at least an hour at a time
• You are comfortable mountain biking up to six hours a day at a moderate pace, with snack and photo stops, for four or more consecutive days
• You can tackle several serious climbs a day, up to 600 metres each

Typical trails you’ll be riding

• Double track: undulating and sometimes steep forest roads made up of hard-packed dirt, and loose tracks with golf ball- to fist-sized rocks
• Singletrack: purpose-built and natural singletrack, at times with golf ball- to head-sized (fixed) rocks, roots, and sand sections. Some trails may be very steep
• Forest trails: dirt tracks crossed with roots and sometimes very narrow through the trees
• Trail surfaces may be dry and sandy or muddy, depending on the weather, and you will encounter river crossings
• You will also encounter a degree of exposure on certain trails

The ideal bike for the trails on the South Island of New Zealand is a good quality full-suspension mountain bike with 29” or 27.5” wheels, dropper seat post, and 130mm -150mm of travel front and rear. Ideal tyres for New Zealand are…

We recommend travelling with your own bike, and we have some handy tips on how to do this.  When travelling with your own bike, you must ensure that it has been properly serviced before the trip.

If you are taking your own bike to New Zealand please ensure it is spotlessly clean, like new. The New Zealand border authorities are extremely vigilant about foreign organisms entering the country and will stop kit entering if it poses any risk to their natural eco-system.

We only run small group mountain bike tours to ensure that everyone has the best experience possible, and there will be a maximum of 10 people in each group.

The minimum number of people we require to run this mountain bike tour in New Zealand is six.

Our mountain bike tour in New Zealand caters for a wide age range; typically between 30- and 55-years-old. Regardless of age, you must have the appropriate level of physical fitness and mountain biking skills to participate in this adventure. Please refer to clause 14 of our terms and conditions of booking to find more information on rider age.

This mountain bike tour in New Zealand is a guided mountain bike vacation, ideal for intermediate+ mountain bikers. Riding here, in the wild, dramatic landscapes of New Zealand you’ll experience some tough climbs and descents, as well as some lovely flowing singletrack.

You’ll ride through a huge diversity of ecosystems, including rainforest, high alpine ridges, and glacial valleys, and you’ll experience some big backcountry wilderness riding too.

The distances we cover each day range from 18km to 54km. The flow of the itinerary has been designed to give you the ideal mix of long, epic backcountry days, and shorter New Zealand classic trails to ensure that you get the most from every single riding experience.

Each evening your guides will chat with you about the following day’s mountain biking and give you an idea of the sorts of trails you can look forward to. If there’s anything you feel anxious about, your guides will be happy to discuss it with you.

No, you only need to carry a 20 litre back pack with you whilst riding. We have a support vehicle and driver who will transfer your luggage to your next accommodation each day, and have it ready and waiting for your arrival.

On our big wilderness days where we ride into a mountain hut you need to carry a change of clothes for the evening/ next day’s biking, but other provisions will be dropped at the hut, ready for your arrival.

Your guide will be very happy to give you some bike skills help during your trip to help improve your confidence and your enjoyment of your mountain bike tour in New Zealand.

If there is a section that you would prefer not to ride, then you can simply hop off your bike and walk. You won’t be the only one to walk certain sections and it’s not a competition in biking ability; it’s a mountain bike holiday!

Your mountain bike guides are local to New Zealand and experienced professionals who have a real passion for mountain biking and for the culture and landscape of the South Island.

Your safety is their number one priority, closely followed by your enjoyment of your mountain bike tour in New Zealand. They will always be on-hand to answer any questions or requests you may have throughout your trip.

On this mountain bike tour New Zealand on the South Island, you will be staying in a variety of different accommodations, from local small motels, to traditional hikers’ lodges, and a wilderness mountain hut.

Breakfasts are included each day, as well as one lunch and five dinners. Lunches will mostly be eaten on the trail from provisions we’ve bought in advance, or occasionally, in a café.

The ideal bike for the New Zealand trails is a good quality full-suspension mountain bike with 29” or 27.5” wheels, dropper seat post, and 130mm -150mm of travel front and rear.

Read the full kit list to find out what you need to pack for your mountain bike tour on New Zealand’s South Island.

Yes, you will have the chance to do laundry on three days during the tour.

Unfortunately not. We are working hard to provide each and every customer who rides with us an unparalleled mountain bike experience in every destination we ride. This takes years of experience, riding and planning to get right, and a drone adds a very real danger to the group’s riding experience and health & safety.

Most travellers will come to the South Island of New Zealand via Christchurch or Queenstown. Major airlines travelling to Christchurch and Queenstown include:

• British Airways
• Air New Zealand

Here’s a video showing you how to pack your bike for travel .

For advice on entry visa entry requirements to New Zealand please visit the Tourism New Zealand website immigration.govt.nz

Arrival and departure details

Your mountain bike tour New Zealand will start in Christchurch and finish in Queenstown, in the South Island. As such, you should book your flights to arrive in Christchurch and depart from Queenstown.

We strongly advise that you arrive in Christchurch two days (or more) prior to the tour start date in order to overcome jet lag and travel weariness. We have a handy guide to spending 24 hours in Christchurch , which includes accommodation recommendations and things to do.

On the first day of your adventure, your guides will collect you from the designated pre-trip accommodation at 8:30am and transfer the whole group to our base 30 minutes from the city centre, where we’ll build and test bikes, ready for your antipodean adventure!

On the last day of your trip we will return you to Queenstown airport in time for your onward flight, which you should book no earlier than 10am.

If you plan to spend more time in Queenstown post-trip we also have a guide to spending 24 hours in Queenstown .

Our local mountain bike guides in New Zealand are of the very highest standard. They are qualified in first-aid, and have the knowledge and experience to lead a group safely through the diverse eco-systems and unpredictable weather of New Zealand.

Our guides have years of experience in the saddle on the South Island trails and will be able to enhance your holiday with facts and fables on local history, flora and fauna. They’re also genuinely nice people and will do their best to make sure that everyone in the group has a great time.

The majority of accommodation that we use on this mountain bike tour in New Zealand is family-owned and operated hotels, guest lodges and B&Bs.

You will have three nights in shared lodge accommodation, including a remote mountain hut in the middle of a beautiful rainforest to give you that real wilderness experience. Ghost Lake Hut is a basic accommodation where you’ll be in dorm-style rooms, sleeping in sleeping bags, and bathroom facilities are outside the main building.

You’ll enjoy fabulous food in New Zealand, made from fresh, locally-sourced produce, accompanied by delicious local wines and craft ales – all perfect reward for hard days on the bike!

Most of your meals will be in local cafés which, in New Zealand, serve the most delicious, home-cooked meals, from the best local ingredients. This includes freshly-baked bread, pastries and cakes, perfect for replenishing your energy!

All breakfasts, one lunch and five dinners are included in the tour price, and you should budget around 1,000 NZD for meals and drinks during your trip.

Whilst not all meals are included in the tour price, we will eat as a group at each mealtime.

No specific vaccinations are needed to enter New Zealand, but you should always consult your own doctor or physician before travelling to new countries to seek their advice on matters concerning your health abroad.

You can drink the water from the taps in New Zealand, and also from streams on the advice of your guides.

Your health and safety is on tour our top priority so when you travel with us you also have the peace of mind knowing that you will be covered by Global Rescue emergency medical and evacuation services.

The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar (NZD), and this is the only currency accepted in the country.

There will be plenty of ATMs along the way, but we recommend you have a reserve of around $300 with you on arrival, just in case.

It is not compulsory to tip your guide team in New Zealand, although it will be very much appreciated.

We suggest a tip of 2% to 6% of the cost of your tour should be paid to your mountain bike guide at the end of the trip, which will then be divided between drivers, support staff and fixers, if you feel you have had a great experience on your mountain bike tour New Zealand.

You are required as a condition of booking to be insured against medical and personal accident risks. In this policy you must include cover for mountain biking and we recommend that you take out a policy which covers cancellation and baggage, including your bike.

We work with Global Rescue whose policies are specially designed for adventure travel and you can arrange your insurance cover directly with them.

Make this tour private

To make this a private tour for you and your favourite people, complete the form and we’ll work with you to make it happen.

Customise your tour

Meet your guides.

Your guide to the South Island of New Zealand is Damian. A mountain biker through-and through, Damian will guide you through the beautifully diverse landscapes and trails of his southern homeland.

Create your own review

There are no words to describe the rugged beauty of New Zealand and this tour. The people of the South Island are true treasures as much as their beautiful, natural landscape. Both come together to make this a genuine life experience, not just a mountain bike ride. Be warned - the Old Ghost Road is no joke and will push your physical limits and riding abilities, but in the best way possible. And its beauty is worth every pedal stroke. Damian and Morgs are fantastic guides! Instilling confidence with coaching tips as well as humor on every turn, they are worth the price alone. If you are considering this trip, book it - today!

The diversity of environments and trails we experienced was amazing. From tropical to alpine settings, flowy, technical, rocky, smooth, bike park, remote natural tracks, this trip has it all. I can’t imagine a better guide than Erin. She knows every meter of every trail and expertly matched each day’s plan perfectly to our group. All the logistical matters were handled flawlessly, the accommodations were good, the food was great, and the riding was superlative. We all had grins plastered on our faces almost all the time. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who meets the physical and skill requirements. Between the rides, bus transfers, the meals, and keeping your gear and yourself sorted out, you won’t have much free time to explore on your own. For that reason, if you’d like to experience some of the non-riding activities New Zealand has to offer (and there are many) I’d recommend tacking on a few extra days to your trip.

• Intermediate +
• 8 days / 7 nights

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• 12 days / 11 nights

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• Group Rides

The Great Southern Brevet (GSB) 2025

January 25, 2025 @ 11:00 am,  canterbury, new zealand    683.5mi (1,100km).

Next Event Tue Nov 13, 2018

Next Event:

Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra 2025

The Great Southern Brevet is a 1,100km self-supported bikepacking adventure around the Central South Island of New Zealand…

Date: January 25, 2025

Time: 11:00 am

Event Website

Organizer: GSB community

Email: matthew@logicoat.com.au

Church of the Good Shepherd

Lake Tekapo Mackenzie Country , Canterbury New Zealand

The GSB is possibly the most stunning and inspirational 1100km ride you can find on our little planet. Many would describe it as a life-changing experience to complete these southern courses for the first time. A great challenge, with great people, and great country.

Depending on your pace, it is one of the tougher bikepacking rides, so the reward is huge! :) The lows make the highs even higher. So it’s a win win… afterwards. :)

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