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Lunch Break at Lake Ohau - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Lunch Break at Lake Ohau  | Tereza
Glistening water at Lake Pukaki - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Glistening water at Lake Pukaki  | Bec Adams
Riding the Alps to Ocean - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Riding the Alps to Ocean  | Gesine C
Conquering the mighty Alps 2 Ocean - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Conquering the mighty Alps 2 Ocean  | Gesine C
Lake Aviemore, a2o trail - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Lake Aviemore, a2o trail  | Elaina Culbert
Stay at the historic Burnside Homestead - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Stay at the historic Burnside Homestead  | Dan Thour
Celebrating at the top of the Tarnbrae high point! - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Celebrating at the top of the Tarnbrae high point!  | Rebecca Ryan
Cycling through Pasquale Kurow Winery - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Cycling through Pasquale Kurow Winery  | Daniel Thour
The views from Lake Ohau Lodge are a treat! - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
The views from Lake Ohau Lodge are a treat!  | Ross Dunn
Exploring Elephant Rocks on the Alps 2 Ocean - Alps to Ocean Classic, New Zealand
Exploring Elephant Rocks on the Alps 2 Ocean  | Errol W

Alps to Ocean Classic

One of NZ's most scenic, diverse & popular cycle trails

New Zealand
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 528 reviews

6 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: ATC
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 6 Days
Activities
  • 6 day cycle trail
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel/motel
  • 1 night historic homestead
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 5

moderate

Carbon Footprint  

26kg of CO2-e PP per day

(129kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Alps to Ocean Trip highlights

  • Cycle the full length of the spectacular Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail from Tekapo
  • Cycle the shoreline of surreal turquoise hydro lakes
  • Stargaze across world renown night skies
  • Explore Oamaru’s charming Victorian Precinct
  • Enjoy good company, & eat delicious food
  • Relax and enjoy the ride while your guides look after the logistics and drive the support vehicle

Overview

Explore some of the South Island’s most spectacular landscapes by bike on our fully guided and supported Alps to Ocean Cycle tour.

From Tekapo, we head through the golden Mackenzie Country on canal paths to Lake Pukaki and the mountainous landscape around Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Walking options in the Park give us immense views of these majestic peaks.

From Twizel, the trail follows ancient pathways through the Waitaki Valley where you’ll be wowed by stunning lakes, fascinating hydro dams and picturesque vineyards. A ride through rolling countryside leads down to the historic port town of Oamaru.

Our expert guides will show you the A2O’s best trailside highlights including wine-tasting, hot pools, Maori rock art and otherworldly limestone outcrops. You’ll also enjoy warm hospitality in accommodation full of heritage charm.

Itinerary

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Following an early start, our adventure begins with the drive across the picturesque Canterbury Plains. After refreshments in the country town of Geraldine, we’ll continue through rolling farmland to reach Burke’s Pass the gateway to Mackenzie Country, and Lake Tekapo soon appears as a bright blue jewel. We’ll have lunch and after a briefing and group photos we’ll set off cycling around the lakeside to see the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, continuing to the start of the Alps to Ocean ride. We follow alongside the vivid hydro canals to reach a high terrace overlooking Lake Pukaki and the surrounding mountains. The trail then dips down to meet the lakeshore, offering incredible views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Here we load up and have a short drive to Twizel, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Tonight we have our first group dinner where we can learn more about the week’s cycling ahead. Cycling Distance: Tekapo to Twizel - up to 34km Accommodation : The Alps, Twizel

Meals: L,D

After breakfast, we head back to the Lake Pukaki and hop back on our bikes to ride the lakeside track before heading across expansive tussockland back to our accommodation in Twizel. After a quick clothing change, we will venture north to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, around an hour's drive. This afternoon is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the stunning alpine landscape of New Zealand's highest peaks. After a picnic lunch, options include the Red Tarns Track with beautiful views of alpine tarns and New Zealands highest mountains; Kea Point Track to the foot of Mt Sefton and it's beautiful glacier; Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, with vistas of NZ's longest glacier and the Tasman Lake; or the stunning Hooker Valley track with amazing views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Mueller Glacier. You can choose any of these and still allow time to also visit the impressive Department of Conservation Visitors' Centre. In less favourable weather conditions, we will have the opportunity to explore the visitors centre and the Edmund Hilary Museum. In the late afternoon we return to Twizel for our second night's stay. Cycling Distance: approx 19km Hiking Distances: Kea Point Track: 5km/2hr return from Village; Red Tarns Track: 3.7km/2hr (330m gain); Hooker Valley Track: up to 10km/3-4hrs; Tasman Glacier Viewpoint : - 3km/45 mins (includes 300 steps); Accommodation : The Alps, Twizel

Meals: B,L,D

The stunning scenery keeps coming as we ride alongside the Pukaki and Ohau canals with a vast mountainous backdrop, then Lake Ohau where we stop for lunch. Confident riders can continue on the trail to Tarnbrae Saddle (900m), the highpoint of the A2O. The vast Mackenzie Country views are just reward for the climb. Alternatively, riders can transfer to the historic woolshed at Quailburn for a much easier ride down to Omarama – our stop for the night. Translating from Maori as ‘place of light’, Omarama is known for its extraordinarily clear skies, offering incredible star gazing opportunities at night. This evening enjoy an optional soak in a private hot tub of fresh mountain water (subject to availability and at own expense). Cycling Distance: 38km (Twizel–Lake Ohau); 44km Lake Ohau–Omarama via Tarnbrae Saddle or 26km (Quailburn–Omarama (short option) Accommodation : Sierra Motel, Omarama

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride takes us down the Waitaki Valley, known for its hydro lakes and dams. First, we follow the trail along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting. From there, we follow the lakeshore, winding around rocky outcrops, secluded beaches, and scenic views of lush, isolated islands. The trail then drops us down from above the Benmore Dam to rejoin the quiet lakeside road. There is an easier option for less confident riders who would prefer to avoid this more technical section. Regrouped, it’s a fun downhill cycle towards Aviemore Dam, where we’ll enjoy a picnic by the lake. We’ll arrive at Kurow with plenty of time to explore the town’s surrounds. Highlights include beautifully restored St Albans Church and wine-tasting at local vineyards. We’ll stay overnight in Kurow in an elegant lodge serving dinner showcasing local produce. Cycling Distance: 67km Accommodation : Waitaki Braids Lodge, Kurow or Riverside B&B

Meals: B,L,D

This morning the cycle trail takes us along the banks of the Waitaki River, past vineyards and a Maori rock art site to reach the small town of Duntroon. From there, we head inland into rolling country and wander around the unique Elephant Rocks, huge formations strewn across a field. Picking up the old railway line, we’ll ride through Raki's tunnel before rolling downhill to the settlement of Windsor. The historic Burnside Homestead is a fitting place for our final night together and a well-deserved night’s sleep after dinner at the local Enfield pub. Cycling Distance: 28km (Kurow–Duntroon) & 40km (Duntroon–Burnside Homestead) Accommodation : Burnside Homestead

Meals: B,L,D

We get to enjoy one more ride on the A2O before we begin our road trip back to Christchurch. Setting off from our accommodation, we keep on rolling through picturesque rural countryside. We pass Oamaru Stone quarry, where stone has been extracted since the nineteenth century. We’ll see its influence on local architecture once we reach Oamaru. After riding through the town’s delightful municipal gardens, we’ll reach the Victorian Precinct and harbourside park where the A2O finish-line sign offers the perfect photo-op. If time allows, explore the shops and galleries or visit the mind-boggling Steampunk HQ museum. After a late lunch, we’ll begin our journey north across the Canterbury Plains, arriving in central Christchurch early evening. Cycling Distance: 19km (Burnside–Oamaru)

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

55 scheduled departures between 18 Oct 2026 and 7 May 2028.

  • Departs 18 Oct 2026 – ends 23 Oct 2026 (6 days)
  • Departs 25 Oct 2026 – ends 30 Oct 2026 (6 days)
  • Departs 1 Nov 2026 – ends 6 Nov 2026 (6 days)
  • Departs 15 Nov 2026 – ends 20 Nov 2026 (6 days)
  • Departs 22 Nov 2026 – ends 27 Nov 2026 (6 days)
  • Departs 29 Nov 2026 – ends 4 Dec 2026 (6 days)
  • … and 49 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x5), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x5), two course restaurant dinners (x5) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 5 nights comfortable motel/lodge ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
  • Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
  • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
  • Transport from Christchurch (return)
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Rider fees paid to the A2O Trail Trust for ongoing maintenance and improvements

Not included

  • Bike hire (including helmet)
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • All beverages, other than breakfast
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Optional activities (eg. Hot tubs Omarama, Oamaru Steampunk Gallery)
  • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
  • Travel insurance

About your guide

Our guides are one of our biggest assets and we pride ourselves on their level of quality and high standards. Once the trip reaches 8 people, we provide you with two of our expert guides to maximise your enjoyment and overall experience. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of our guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but our guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Videos

New Zealand Cycling Holidays | Webinar Replay
New Zealand Cycling Holidays | Webinar Replay
Cycling the Alps to Ocean Trail in New Zealand
Our Guides: The Heart and Soul of Your Adventure
Our Premium e-Bikes: Features and Benefits
Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail with Adventure South NZ

Reviews (528)

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We couldn’t have asked for better guides than Bryan and Harry for our six-day Alps to Ocean bike ride through New Zealand this April. From start to finish, they created an experience that struck the perfect balance between adventure, comfort, and camaraderie.

Managing a group of 14 riders—mostly Australians—is no small feat, but Bryan and Harry made it look effortless. Every day began with a clear, thoughtful ride briefing that set expectations and built confidence, and throughout the trip we felt consistently safe, supported, and well looked after.

They kept us exceptionally well fed (no one was ever short of snacks or great meals!) and somehow also seemed to deliver perfect weather, which only added to the magic of the stunning coastal scenery we rode through. Their organisation behind the scenes was seamless.

Bryan, a true Kiwi, brought warmth, humour, and deep local knowledge, while Harry’s lovely British accent and easygoing manner added an extra layer of charm to the journey. Both are highly accomplished cyclists, and their expertise showed—not just in how they guided the rides, but in how they encouraged and connected with everyone in the group.

More than anything, they were simply great company. They fostered a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere that made the trip feel special for every rider. By the end, it felt less like a tour and more like a shared adventure among friends.

Bryan and Harry made this trip genuinely memorable—we’d ride with them again in a heartbeat.

Catherine|QLD, Australia
22 Apr 2026
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My sister and just completed the Alps to Ocean ride with Adventure South. It was an outstanding trip through amazing country. Our guides, Pete and Luke were fantastic. They were knowledgeable and understanding and made everything run super-smoothly. Everyone on the tour always knew exactly what was happening and what to expect every day.

The advice provided by the company prior to the trip was excellent so all members of our group were well prepared but we fortunately didn't need our wet weather gear.

The accommodation on every night was of a high standard and the selected eating venues were also excellent. All of the menu offerings were of a very high standard and credit to Adventure South for the selections.

The e-bikes provided were excellent. The power assistance was great when we needed it, particularly climbing the Tarn Brae Saddle and I would recommend the e-bike option for those who aren't so young which was the case for most of our group.

I think that the whole package was excellent for the money and would highly recommend it.

David B|Australia
26 Mar 2026
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I rode the Alps to Ocean Classic recently with Harry and Bryan as our guides. We were a group of 14. This was one of the most enjoyable rides I have ever done. It was really well organised, nothing was too much trouble for our fabulous guides. The scenery was superb and we were very lucky to have good weather for almost all of the ride. Accommodation was great as was all the food. The e-bike was of high quality. I would highly recommend this ride to anyone considering it.

Pauline|Queensland, Australia
26 Apr 2026
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The A2O ride was awesome, made even more enjoyable by guides Brian and Harry who blended in as part of the team.

Kenneth|ACT, Australia
23 Apr 2026
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Fantastic tour, great guides, accommodation, cafes, restaurants, scenery and NZ hospitality.

Rodger Rea|NSW, Australia
23 Apr 2026
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The terrain was varied, from very tame to terrifying. Good for my personal development. Bryan and Harry, our guides were informative, thorough and entertaining. I’d recommend this A2O trip to anyone who is half proficient in a bike.

Kim R|VIC, Australia
17 Apr 2026
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Amazing trip in every way! Fantastic biking, gorgeous scenery, delicious food, brilliant guide.

Morgan G|United States
17 Apr 2026
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A spectacular trip with amazing scenery and through some incredible places.

Joanne Le Prevost|United Kingdom
13 Apr 2026
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We had a great Alps 2 Ocean trip with an excellent tour guide. He explained everything really well, including his interesting local knowledge & facts. Our accommodation & meals were superb everyday.

Andrew W|New Zealand
11 Apr 2026

Extra trip info

AccommodationBikesTrail surfacesWill My Trip Run?
Stay at the historic Burnside Homestead | Dan Thour

Burnside Homestead

A unique Victorian country home built in the 1890's offers large traditionally decorated bedrooms with authentic period furniture. Guests are welcomed with a delicious afternoon tea and can relax in the sunny conservatory, sitting room, billiard room, or in front of the open fire in the great hall. Wander through the extensive parkland featuring specimen trees and sheltered gardens established over 160 years ago.

Studio Room at Carrick Lodge | Carrick Lodge

Motels

Often family run, motels range from 3 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Rooms are spacious, warm and comfortable and they have ensuite bathrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Waitaki Braids Kurow | Accommodation | Lachlan Gardiner

Waitaki Braids Lodge

Dating back to 1888, this elegant lodge started life as the Kurow village store. Each room offers a private ensuite and a conservatory, luxury beds and linen and there is a communal lounge and dining area where dinner is served. Local produce is the heart of the menu and dinner is the Chefs choice of set menu, catering to all dietary requirements.

Sinch EBike Jaunt 3.5 Auto

Sinch eBikes - Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL*

Designed specifically for Adventure South, our fleet of Sinch e-bikes is built to handle Aotearoa New Zealand’s cycle trails with ease. These pedal-assist bikes take the effort out of hills and longer rides, thanks to a smooth and reliable Shimano motor system and a comfortable, upright riding position. '

For premium comfort and control, they are equipped with:

Large 630Wh battery

Electronic and optional automatic gear shifting

Swept-back handlebars with ergonomic comfort grips

120mm front air suspension

20mm suspension dropper seat post

Hydraulic disc brakes

Adjustable handlebar stem

All sizes apart from XL feature an exceptionally low step-through frame (40cm) and 27.5” x 2.35” tyres.

*The XL bikes feature a step-over frame with 29” x 2.4” tyres for added stability and performance.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth Muster, or cycling through Otago’s stunning gorges, our e-bikes are designed to help you enjoy every moment of the ride.

Merida Big 9 200

Merida Big Nine 200 (Hardtail Mountain bike NOT AN E-BIKE) - Sizes S, M, L & XL:

Our Merida Big Nine 200 hardtails are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — reliable, capable, and comfortable. The lightweight aluminium frame and 29x2.4'' tires roll efficiently over a wide range of terrain, while the air suspension fork smooths out bumps and rough tracks. A modern, big range 1x10 drivetrain keeps shifting simple and intuitive, letting you focus on the ride ahead.

Hydraulic disc brakes give you reliable stopping power, and the rear rack fitted with one of our rack bags (included in hire) is ideal for stashing your layers, lunch or camera. With a relaxed upright riding position, this is a great choice for those who want a traditional, pedal-powered ride without sacrificing comfort.

With cleverly engineered geometry, this is a great choice for those who appreciate an engaging pedal powered ride without sacrificing the slightest bit of comfort.

Whether you’re cruising through the Roxburgh Gorge, flying across the Shotover Bridge, or pedalling beside the wild surf of the Taranaki coast, the Merida Big Nine 200 is a dependable trail mate.

* We have step-through bikes available on request, subject to limited availability. These are Avanti Discovery models.

eOne-Forty Mountain Bike Full Suspension

Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ (Full suspension, MTB e-bike) - Sizes S, M, L:

This is the e-bike for riders who want the lot — comfort, control, and a little electric boost when the legs need it. The Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ features full suspension, a sporty mountainbike position, 29x2.4'' tires and a powerful Shimano motor that’ll help flatten out hills and keep your day flowing smoothly.

A long-lasting 712 Wh battery means you can ride all day, and extras like integrated lights, mudguards and a rack make it practical too. Whether you’re gliding around the Timber Trail, cruising the West Coast Wilderness, or soaking in the sights of the Alps to Ocean, this bike turns the dial up on comfort and capability.

*Subject to limited availability

Otago Central Rail Trail | Lachlan Gardiner

Compacted Gravel 45%

45% of the Alps 2 Ocean trail is compacted gravel. Cyclists need to be confident riding on uneven surfaces and aware that riding on this surface will reduce cycling speeds. There are some narrow cattle-stop grates, and “chicanes” (s-shaped safety gateways).

Take in the views of Aoraki, Mt Cook as you ride along turquoise canals | Lisa Jones

Sealed Road 30%

30% of the Alps 2 Ocean trail is sealed road. Most of these roads are quiet back-roads. Cyclists need to be aware of the road rules and able to cope with small amounts of traffic.

Enjoy the shadow on an early autumn day in France's Tarn region | Charles Hawes

Gravel Road 18%

18% of the Alps 2 Ocean trail is gravel road. This is manageable for most, however cyclists need to be comfortable riding on rougher gravel surfaces including graded roads and deeper gravel.

Alps 2 Ocean Rough Shingle Surface

Rough Shingle 6%

6% of the Alps 2 Ocean trail is rough shingle. This can include rocks and rough terrain. Some cyclists will choose to walk these sections.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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