(Click a region for more details) |
For this tour a 27-speed Avanti Pioneer hybrid cycle with front suspension is available. The hybrid provides a more upright cycle position which can be more restful. |
|
| Outline Itinerary [1/4] >> |
| Day 1: |
Christchurch - Hanmer Springs
After a pick-up from your hotel we soon have our first cycle on the hilltop above Christchurch. From a set up on the summit road, we cycle towards Sumner nestled on the coast. The ride provides spectacular views north to the Kaikoura ranges, site of our last nights accommodation. After a picnic lunch drive and cycle the plains of Canterbury into the foothills. Edging onto the bushclad Lewis Pass and its mountain ranges is the thermal resort of Hanmer springs. At the end of this first day the hot pools are a welcome interlude. |
| Day 2: |
Hanmer Springs-Greymouth
After an early morning ride out to the main road, the beautiful beech forests of the Lewis Pass beckon and by cycle and coach journey through the picturesque Rahu Saddle before another downhill rush with sweeping corners. On beautifully sealed roads, lined with lush temperate rainforest, continue until reaching the rugged West Coast. Accommodation for the evening is in the character filled old mining town of Greymouth. |
| Day 3: |
Greymouth-Nelson Lakes
One of the many highlights of the trip is the coastal riding heading north towards Westport. From the Strongman Memorial through to the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, the riding is pure quality – with enough hills to keep you honest. After a midday break continue along the coast and finally reach the accommodation for the evening. |
| Day 4: |
Nelson Lakes-Nelson
Cycle the sealed roads through the impressive Buller Gorge where the upper gorge landscape provides snapshot vistas of the Buller River whose white water attracts many a rafting and kayak enthusiast. There are plenty of photo opportunities on this scenic and gently undulating ride, before boarding the coach for a final ride into Nelson, home of NZ leading arts and crafts exhibits. |
| Day 5: |
Nelson-Kaikoura
By coach travel over the steep outlying hills to arrive at the start of the beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive which skirts the Marlborough Sounds into Picton. From here it is a short hop over the hill to Blenheim, New Zealand's premier wine producing region. After a great lunch at one of the countries leading wineries, head south down the dramatic East Coast to reach Kaikoura, home of New Zealand 's Whale Watch icon. |
| Day 6: |
Kaikoura-Christchurch
For the early risers, an optional chance to view one of the great natural sights as whales surface against the spectacular mountain backdrop of the seaward Kaikoura Mountains. Following a late sumptuous breakfast head further south cycling some of the great back roads and enjoying the scenery. Eventually return to Christchurch and your accommodation for the night. |
|
|
 |
| © Adventure South Ltd |
 Enter the Guardian's Travel
Writing Competition and win a
trip
to New Zealand.
Find out more >> |
|
|
Northland