Taking in the serenity riding through Central Otago | Cam Stables

Otago Central Rail Trail | Lachlan Gardiner

The Lake Ohau inlet | Daniel Thour

Hana Black Photos - ATC | Hana Black

Lake Dunstan Trail, Central Otago | Ross Mackay

Sunny day on Lake Dunstan | Will Nelson

We take regular stops on the trail to refuel | Lachlan Gardiner

Otago Central Rail Trail | Lachlan Gardiner

Panorama of Queenstown, the 'adventure capital' of New Zealand | Peter Walton

Best of South Island's Great Rides

Explore five of NZ's most scenic and diverse cycle trails whilst visiting some of the country's most treasured locations

New Zealand

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27 reviews

8 Days from

$3770 USD

Trip Code: SIC

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Bike Rental

$160 USD

Sinch Ebike Rental

$520 USD

Single Supplement - Limited to 2 per departure

$760 USD

Merida Full Suspension eBike Rental

$780 USD

Duration

8 Days

Activities

8 day cycle trail

Accommodation

7 nights hotel/motel

Meals

5 Dinners
7 Lunches
7 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

3 / 5

moderate

Carbon Footprint

24kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(170kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Cycle five spectacular Great Rides of the South Island all in one trip!
Take in the pristine lakes, stunning river valleys and alpine landscapes of the South Island
Cycle the best sections of the spectacular Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail from Tekapo
Complete the Lake Dunstan and the Roxburgh Gorge Trails, tracing the footsteps of gold mining pioneers
Experience a historic journey along a section of the Otago Central Rail Trail
Finish the tour following the Queenstown Trails into the adventure capital of New Zealand
Have expert local guides deliver world class service which allows you to relax and ride

Overview

This unique itinerary has been designed to showcase the very best trails the South Island has to offer. New Zealand has a vast network of cycle trails throughout the country offering a range of diverse landscapes; 23 have been awarded the Great Rides status. We have selected the finest sections of the best FIVE trails for this epic 8 day tour.

We begin in the garden city of Christchurch with a warm up ride along the spectacular Summit Road following the rim of an extinct volcano. Then we head to glimmering Lake Tekapo to spend 3 days riding the Alps to Ocean trail near Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. We cycle past the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, turquoise glacier-fed lakes and lush pastures dotted with sheep, as far as Lake Aviemore. We then travel into Central Otago to take on the stunning Lake Dunstan Trail which winds through a deep gorge and past world class Pinot Noir vineyards.

Next up is New Zealand's original 'Great Ride', the Otago Central Rail Trail, followed by the Roxburgh Gorge trail through another remote gorge which includes a scenic jet boat transfer. Our final ride explores the trails of Queenstown within the beautiful Lakes District, taking in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and the stunning Arrow River Bridges Trail.

Character-filled towns, comfortable accommodation and friendly welcomes are all part of the package, as is the passion and local knowledge of your guides.

*For the 2026/27 season, on Day 8, we’ll be tackling the newest Great Ride, the Kawarau Gorge Trail, assuming it has been completed on time. This trail has opened up previously inaccessible segments of the stunning Kawarau Gorge, winding around the Nevis Bluff with bluff bridges along the Kawarau River, past rapids, and offering spectacular views up the Nevis River mouth.

Itinerary

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Your South Island adventure starts in central Christchurch at 8am. We start with a short drive to the top of the Port Hills where we will begin to cycle along the crater rim of an extinct volcano. From Dyers Pass we cycle the undulating and almost traffic-free Summit Road, which offers amazing vistas across Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains to the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps. We can also look into the bright blue water of Lyttelton Harbour on the inside of the crater. Riding out to Godley Head, home to a WWII coastal defence battery that sits atop sheer 120m cliffs, we stop and walk to see the views from the peninsula out to the Pacific Ocean. Back on the bikes, it's a short ride back to Evans Pass and then a sweeping downhill to the port town of Lyttelton. There are some cool cafes and colourful stores to explore, as well as quirky historic buildings along a heritage walk. We drive back to Christchurch in the afternoon and have free time to rest up before we meet for our first group dinner. Cycle Distance: Dyers Pass to Lyttelton - 30km Accommodation: Christchurch

Meals: L,D

After breakfast at the hotel, your guides will be waiting in reception at 8am. We drive south crossing the Canterbury Plains towards Geraldine, then over the scenic Burke’s Pass to the famous Mackenzie Country, where Lake Tekapo soon appears as a bright blue jewel. We will visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd perched on the edge of the shimmering lake with a panoramic mountain backdrop. After lunch, we join the first of the trip's Great Ride Cycle Trails - the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail. This is NZ's longest cycle path, travelling 300km from the highest mountain Aoraki/Mt Cook all the way to the ocean at Oamaru. We spend the next 3 days riding the best sections of this trail. Initially we follow quiet roads alongside the turquoise blue waters of a hydro canal system through to Lake Pukaki. With amazing mountain views, we ride around the lake shore before crossing the extensive tussock-lands of the Pukaki flats to the small town of Twizel. Twizel is in the heart of a dark sky reserve so be sure to take a walk outside after dark to see the incredible starry skies. Dinner by own care tonight. Cycle Distance: Tekapo to Twizel - 54km Accommodation: Twizel

Meals: B,L

The stunning scenery keeps coming as we ride alongside the Pukaki and Ohau canals with a vast mountainous backdrop, through to 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 we enjoy a meal at a typical small town pub and experience real Kiwi hospitality. Cycle Distance: Twizel to Lake Ohau - 38km, Lake Ohau to Omarama via Tarnbrae Saddle - 44km Short Option: Quailburn to Omarama - 26km Accommodation: Omarama

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s Alps to Ocean ride follows the Waitaki river down the picturesque Waitaki Valley, known for its hydro lakes and dams. First, we follow the narrow trail along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting where we join the lake shore to traverse around the shoreline of rocky outcrops, little beaches and even tree covered islands. 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 finish our Alps to Ocean experience at the dam, load up the bikes and then drive towards Central Otago over the Lindis Pass. We head to Cromwell where next up is the Lake Dunstan trail, which we will tackle tomorrow. There will be time to have a wander around Cromwell old town, a small historic precinct dating back to the gold rush days of the 1800s, with a number of galleries, cafes and boutique shops. Cycle distance: Omarama to Aviemore Dam - 51km Accommodation: Cromwell

Meals: B,L,D

Today we ride the full length of the newest Great Ride, the Lake Dunstan Trail, a spectacular ride through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago. Our journey starts at Smith's Way with an easy ride following the shores of Lake Dunstan. We pass back through Cromwell’s old town, and continue along the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan to the Bannockburn Bridge. We wind our way through old mine tailings, wineries and olive groves and from Cornish Point head into the dramatic Cromwell Gorge. The track winds around sheer rockfaces and over lake inlets on impressively engineered platforms and bridges rising above the lake to Clyde. For those riders who wish to avoid the more demanding section through the gorge, there will be an option to drive to Clyde and ride all or part of the easier river trail to Alexandra, or explore the small historic town. We stay in Clyde for the next 2 nights. Cycling Distances: Smith’s Way to Cornish Point – 30km Cornish Point to Clyde via Lake Dunstan (Moderate) – 25km Clyde to Alexandra River Trail (Introductory) – 12km each way Accommodation: Clyde

Meals: B,L,D

Great Ride number three is the famous Otago Central Rail Trail, NZ's original cycle trail. After breakfast, a short transfer takes us inland to Ida Valley. Here we join what we consider to be the best section of the rail trail passing through tunnels and over bridges that once were the secret preserve of railway workers. We witness the natural beauty and look in awe at some early feats of the first settlers of this region. The ever changing landscape includes rugged mountains, crystal clear rivers, and steep winding gorges. We cycle through the 229m Poolburn tunnel over the impressive Manuherikia Bridge and Poolburn viaduct. From Lauder we continue towards Chatto Creek taking in views of the Dunstan Mountains and Raggedy Range, making a short detour to see the Ophir township and its historic bridge. The ride back to Clyde is mostly downhill. In the evening we are free to sample one of the restaurants in town. Cycle Distance: Ida Valley to Clyde - 60km Accommodation: Clyde

Meals: B

Next up, Great Ride number four, is the striking Roxburgh Gorge Trail. Leaving from Clyde we pedal along the wooded River Trail linking Clyde to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail alongside the mighty Clutha Mata-Au river. The trail journeys through a remote barren, treeless landscape, flanked by bluffs up to 350 metres high, following stone walled water races and other remnants of gold mining activity. We arrive at Doctor's Point to meet a jet boat to take us on a scenic historical journey for the next 13km through the gorge to Shingle Creek. Back on our bikes, it's a gradual climb to Elbow Creek, then through a small, secluded valley with regenerating Kanuka (tea tree) scrubland and into sweeping hill country farmland. A series of switchbacks lead us to the impressive Roxburgh Hydro Dam lookout. It's then a further 9km along the river to reach Roxburgh, where we load up the bikes and drive to our accommodation in Alexandra. If there is time we can visit a local vineyard before our final dinner to celebrate new friendships and world class riding. Cycling distance: Clyde to Roxburgh - 40km Accommodation: Alexandra

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cycle the newest Great Ride, the Kawerau Gorge Trail, which has opened up previously inaccessible segments of this stunning gorge. The trail starts from the historic Bannockburn Bridge and continues with the history lesson with incredible stories of early gold mining days, ingenious power generation projects, tales of rabbit hunting, and the ancient routes traversed by early Maori as you navigate your way around bluff bridges on the edge of the Kawerau River. Passing rapids and a spectacular view up the mouth of the Nevis River in between crossing two stunning suspension bridges, you eventually meander around the Nevis Bluff and emerge into the Gibbston Valley, Central Otago’s premier wine-growing region. Here you’ll join the Gibbston River Trail winding its way high above the Kawerau River through multiple vineyards to the Historic Kawerau Bridge, the inaugural home of bungy-jumping! Our last ride is on the picturesque Arrow River Bridges Trail which crosses five bridges over the willow-lined Arrow River before finishing in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, a delightful location for a farewell drink to conclude our spectacular journey, before being delivered into Queenstown town centre in the late afternoon. Cycling distance: 54k

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

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What's included?

Included

Tasty cafe breakfasts (x7), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x5) catered to all dietary requirements
7 nights comfortable hotel/motel ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
Professional qualified driver/guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
Wine tasting at a Central Otago vineyard
Scenic Roxburgh Gorge jet boat transfer
Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
Pre Departure Information Kit to help you plan and prepare
Department of Conservation fees and rider fees paid to Trail Trusts for ongoing maintenance and improvements

Not included

Bike Hire (including helmet)
International or domestic flights and taxes
Group arrival and departure airport transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages, other than with breakfast
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Optional activities (e.g. Omarama Hot Tubs, activities in Dunedin and Queenstown)
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Travel insurance
Visa (if required)

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.

Otago Central Rail Trail Highlights

Lake Dunstan Trail Highlights

New Zealand Cycling Holidays | Webinar Replay

Roxburgh Gorge Trail | Stunning Day Ride

Our Guides: The Heart and Soul of Your Adventure

Our Premium e-Bikes: Features and Benefits

Queenstown Trails

Reviews (27)

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Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

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

Designed right here in Aotearoa New Zealand, our fleet of Sinch eBikes is made to handle the country’s trails with ease. These pedal-assist bikes take the edge off hills and longer rides thanks to smooth, reliable Shimano motor systems and a comfortable, upright riding position.

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. The smaller sizes (XS, S, M) feature step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture, while large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Looking for a riding position more like a mountain bike? Prefer to stand on the pedals or want a full-suspension ride? Consider upgrading to our Merida eOne-FORTY 475 EQ for next-level comfort and capability across all terrain.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Sinch eBike (Front suspension mountain bike style) - Sizes L & XL

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. Large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Avanti Discovery - Hard Tail Mountain Bike (Not an eBike)

Our custom Avanti Discovery bikes are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — simple, solid, and comfortable. Fast-rolling tyres and upgraded suspension forks keep things smooth over mixed terrain, while the 1x10 drivetrain makes gear changes easy and intuitive.

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.

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

This bike is also available in a low-step model on request!

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.

Avanti Discovery - Hard Tail Low-step Mountain Bike (Not an eBike)

Just like our Avanti Discovery hardtail mountain bike, the low-step version is simple, solid, and comfortable. Fast-rolling tyres and upgraded suspension forks keep things smooth over mixed terrain, while the 1x10 drivetrain makes gear changes easy and intuitive.

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

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.

Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ - (subject to availability - through November 2025)

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 relaxed riding position, and a powerful Shimano motor that’ll help flatten out hills and keep your day flowing smoothly.

A long-lasting 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 Great Taste Trail, cruising the West Coast Wilderness, or soaking in the sights of the Timber Trail, this bike turns the dial up on comfort and capability.

(photos will be updated mid-August)

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.