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The rugged and spectacular West Coast of the South Island - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
The rugged and spectacular West Coast of the South Island  | David Wall
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.04 PM (2) - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.04 PM (2)
Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ! - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ!  | Sandra Appleby
Marlborough Sounds - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Marlborough Sounds  | Carol Prantner
Seaside views from the bike - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Seaside views from the bike  | Carol Prantner
Marlborough vineyard - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Marlborough vineyard  | Carol Prantner
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM (1) - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM (1)
Undulating roads are the best! - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Undulating roads are the best!  | Carol Prantner
Nothing like a fresh seafood platter - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Nothing like a fresh seafood platter  | Carol Prantner
View of town and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges from Kaikoura lookout - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
View of town and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges from Kaikoura lookout  | Sandra Appleby
The scenery is just as good as the cycling - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
The scenery is just as good as the cycling  | Stef Woodward
Marlborough Sounds - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Marlborough Sounds  | Carol Prantner
Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki  | Stef Woodward
Coastal ride on the West Coast - Marlborough and West Coast Cycle, New Zealand
Coastal ride on the West Coast  | Carol Prantner

Marlborough and West Coast Cycle

Cycle the alpine passes and coastal rides of the upper South Island

7 Days from

$2770 USD

Trip Code: MBW
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Bike Rental
$150 USD
Road Bike Rental
$240 USD
Ebike Rental
$490 USD
Single Supplement
$690 USD
Duration
  • 7 Days
Activities
  • 7 day road cycle
Accommodation
  • 6 nights hotel/motel
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 5

moderate to challenging

Carbon Footprint  

27kg of CO2-e PP per day

(164kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Challenge yourself on this scenic 7 day road cycle adventure at the top of NZ's South Island
  • Experience one of the best coastal rides in the world which takes us to the amazing geology of Punakaiki and its Pancake Rocks
  • Relax tired muscles in the hot pools of Hanmer Springs
  • Cycle over the Southern Alps via the picturesque Rahu Saddle
  • Travel through beautiful rain forest clad mountains and along scenic river valleys
  • Discover the beauty of Queen Charlotte Drive as we cycle alongside the Marlborough Sounds
  • Swim with the dolphins or join a whale watch tour, if operating, in Kaikoura (optional)

Overview

Exploring the northern regions of the South Island, this action packed cycling tour is sure to inspire as you cycle past bush clad lakes and tracks, along wild coastlines as well as sample some of New Zealand's very best wines! From Christchurch, you'll cycle towards Hanmer Springs to soak in the outdoor hot pools and experience their therapeutic qualities. Returning to the saddle at Springs Junction, pedal along beech forest lined roads towards the rugged beauty of the 'Wild' West Coast. From here the scenery, not the cycling, will leave you breathless as you head north along the flatter, picturesque landscapes of Lake Poerua, Rotomanu and Moana, nestled between the Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Continue along one of the best coastal rides in the world before encountering the natural blowholes at Punakaiki, the mighty Buller Gorge as well as the serene beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound, stopping to sample the produce at local wineries along the way. As you head back towards Christchurch along the stunning Kaikoura coastline, dotted with fur seals, there is the option to take an early morning whale watching cruise, if operating, to provide a fitting finale to this memorable cycling adventure.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

After a pick up from a central Christchurch location, we drive out of the city and start to cycle. The Canterbury Plains are vast and with Hanmer Springs being our objective it's a matter of turning the pedals and watching the road slip by. By late afternoon we arrive at the thermal resort with a chance to soak in the hot pools before dinner. (www.hanmersprings.co.nz). Cycling Distance: up to 50km / 40miles

Meals: L

This morning the beautiful beech forests of the Lewis Pass beckon. By cycle and coach we gradually climb over the picturesque Lewis and Rahu Saddles, after each climb is a downhill rush with long sweeping corners. On beautifully sealed roads with lush temperate rainforest lining the roadside we ride until we reach the rugged beauty of the West Coast Region. The afternoon sees us finish our ride at a country pub called "Formerly the Blackball Hilton." There is a story to be told over your drinks before we drive to Moana, nestled between the spectacular Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Cycling Distance: morning – up to 45km / 28miles Optional afternoon ride – 30km / 19miles

Meals: B,L,D

Heading out of Moana, we follow an undulating and winding course through the picturesque Arnold Valley to Stillwater. A flat ride beside the banks of the Grey River takes us out to the coastal township of Greymouth. One of the trips many highlights is the coastal riding as we head along the coast to the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. The riding is pure quality – with enough hills to keep you honest. Cycling Distance: 76km / 47miles

Meals: B,L

Today we cycle up the Paparoa National Park coastline with magnificent ocean, rainforest, and mountain views. There are plenty of photo opportunities on this scenic and gently undulating ride, through to Constant Bays near perfect shelter from the West Coasts wild seas. Once back in the coach we enjoy the Buller Gorge with snapshot vistas of the Buller River whose white water attracts many a rafting and kayak enthusiast. Climbing out of the gorge we have a great final ride into St Arnaud, drawing us into the heartland of the Nelson Lakes National Park. Off the bike, a short walk takes in nearby Lake Rotoiti, with its famous jetty. This area is known as a “mainland island” and the results of the pest eradication programme means that the native birdlife is flourishing. Cycling Distance: - up to 75km, 46 miles

Meals: B,L,D

Early risers are encouraged to take a walk into the nearby native forest at sunrise to hear the native birds & their “dawn chorus”. From behind St Arnaud we cycle the sealed forestry roads on a long mainly downhill ride towards the coast. We continue along a quiet road beside the beautiful Motueka River and through an area known for growing hops. We enter the township of Motueka and transfer by coach to nearby Nelson where we have time to explore the arts and craft capital of New Zealand. Cycling Distance: up to 97km / 60miles

Meals: B,L

By coach we motor 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, NZ’s premier wine producing region. After a great lunch at one of the countries leading wineries, we head south down the dramatic East Coast to reach Kaikoura, home of whale watching and swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. Cycling Distance: up to 54km / 34 miles

Meals: B,L,D

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 (www.whalewatch.co.nz). This is only possible if the operator is running their dawn departure which is not guaranteed. Swimming with or watching dolphins is also highly recommended (www.dolphinencounter.co.nz). Due to the popularity, however, it is essential to make a booking well in advance. Following a late breakfast we head further south cycling some of the great back roads and enjoying the scenery as we eventually return to Christchurch and drop you in the downtown area around 6pm. Cycling Distance: up to 60km / 37miles

Meals: B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

6 scheduled departures between 12 Dec 2026 and 19 Feb 2028.

  • Departs 12 Dec 2026 – ends 18 Dec 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 20 Jan 2027 – ends 26 Jan 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 23 Feb 2027 – ends 1 Mar 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 12 Dec 2027 – ends 18 Dec 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 20 Jan 2028 – ends 26 Jan 2028 (7 days)
  • Departs 19 Feb 2028 – ends 25 Feb 2028 (7 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x6), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x3) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 6 nights comfortable hotel/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)
  • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
  • Transport from Christchurch (return)
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

Not included

  • Bike hire (including helmet)
  • International or domestic flights and taxes
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • All beverages, other then breakfast
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Optional activities (eg. Whale watching at Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs thermal pools)
  • 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.

Reviews (35)

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Excellent way to see New Zealand. Our guide, Eli was so calm, helpful and interesting. We had a great group of eight total including our guide all ready to tour New Zealand. Everything was very well organized. Comfortable accommodations and delicious food along the way. Each day can be modified for weather and how the group is doing. In addition to the bicycling, we also visited a museum on a partial rain day, swam in lakes and the ocean and hiked a bit to see seals! We especially loved the West Coast!! I would recommend Adventure South NZ to anyone ready for an adventure.

Alisa M|California, United States
9 Mar 2026
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This trip was pretty amazing. Eli, our guide, was so knowledgeable about New Zealand. I learned a lot from him and gained an appreciation for this wonderful country. The accommodations were very nice and the scenery was beautiful.

Cheryl S|California, United States
4 Mar 2026
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The Marlborough and West Coast cycling trip we did was very enjoyable. We got to see a lot of beautiful country. The bikes were high quality and set up for the right geometry when we started. The route selection was nice, and we appreciated being driven through some of the highest traffic areas. Our guide (Eli) was excellent and responded to all of our needs. We would book with Adventure South again.

Neil M|United States
3 Mar 2026
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We were so impressed with our Adventure South West Coast trip that we will return. On initial contact they were so professional and listened to all our needs of bike fits. We had the best guides - Rich and Mike - they were informative about all things NZ on our adventure and navigation for our daily rides - good fun - could not have asked for better. The accommodation was 95% great - clean, lovely comfortable rooms when we arrived exhausted each day from our adventures. the routes we travelled were OMG amazing - the scenery was surreal some days and we had sore necks from looking at the mountains and awesome views each day. Thank you all so much for the best biking holiday ever and we will be back to do another for sure. Recommend to all other keen cyclists or non cyclists (as we did have some on our trip) that want the best riding holiday with fun and scenery you will never forget.

Heather P|Australia
19 Mar 2025
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Our leaders Richard Mortiboys and Mike were very friendly, attentive to our needs, and efficiently organized. The West Coast tour covered superbly scenic country. Group bus rides were strategically scheduled to avoid busy roads, leaving quieter, scenic stretches for use to enjoy on our own wheels. We were not the strongest riders in the group, so were grateful for the e-bikes provided, which allowed us to keep up with the moderate pace. We strongly recommend this tour to any reasonably athletic riders who want an intimate view of New Zealand's South Island.

Carleton D|United States
17 Mar 2025
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Hi, Cathy!

First, many more apologies from me again for my previous replies to your requests for a review of the great Marlborough Cycle Trip 25FEB-03MAR. As my return flights from NZ ended up becoming a rather chaotic and stressful experience due to both extreme weather enroute and particularly during landings and takeoffs in South East Asia, and on top of this my baggage disappearing somewhere between Bangkok and Amsterdam, I had a lot of quick decisions to make along the way to try to remedy at least some of these troubles. I hope you understand my somewhat brief responses and would like to thank you again for your understanding of my reactions…

Luckily, things now seem to slowly return to “normal” again, and I’ve finally located my bag so hopefully I will be reunited with it again! If okay with you, I will return with my review as soon as I see it again. Best regards and thanks for an otherwise great cycle trip through your lovely country. Best regards, Jesper.

Jesper M|Denmark
11 Mar 2025
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The guides Mike and Rich were very patient with us and gave the slower riders plenty of time to complete their rides. The trip had incredible scenery and very good weather. The only time it rained on the whole trip was when we returned to Christchurch to be dropped off at the end of the tour. Adventure South NZ tours are incredibly good value for the money. The hills did prove to be tough for me even though I average 7,000 miles (11,000 km) a year. I primarily ride a lowered geared bicycle that makes it much easier to climb hills than the gearing on the rental bike.

Gregory Forrester|Montana, United States
7 Mar 2025
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Outstanding tour from start to finish! The trip was well planned and resourced, included a wonderful variety of terrain, vistas, rides and options. The tour guides were outstanding - professional, knowledgeable and respectful, incredible in managing the ability levels and expectations of 14 very diverse people. From the initial booking to the finish Adventures South NZ communicated clearly & in a timely manner, managing every detail perfectly!

Maryann Hartley|Alberta, Canada
5 Mar 2025
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Route was excellent, crew was excellent, service was excellent. Would have spent an extra day at pancake rock area, gorgeous! Challenging ride! Love NZ!

Barbara Livick|Minnesota, United States
5 Feb 2025

Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

Scenic Punakaiki Hotel | Scenic Punakaiki Hotel

Scenic Punakaiki Hotel

This well appointed 4 star hotel is located right on the beachfront with views of the Tasman Sea, Punakaiki Beach and surrounding rainforest. It is located just a few minutes walk from the famous Pancake Rocks. The restaurant and bar have large ocean facing windows and a open fire for cooler days. Offering large ensuite studio rooms with tea and coffee making facilities, some rooms have a small kitchenette.

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.

Studio Room at St Arnaud Alpine Lodge | Alpine Lodge St Arnaud

Alpine Lodge St Arnaud

Situated at 640m above sea level in the alpine resort of St Arnaud, this comfortable lodge is nestled amongst the beech forest and towering peaks of the adjacent Nelson Lakes National Park. Comfortable rooms offer mountain views, the kitchen prides itself on producing simple, modern European dishes and there is a cosy restaurant and bar on site.

Avanti Gravel Bike

Avanti Gran durance 3 (Road Bike) - Sizes S, M, ML, L, XL:

The Avanti Gran Durance 3 is our dedicated aluminium road bike — lightweight, fast, and an epic fit for Aotearoa New Zealand’s big open roads. It’s kitted out with Shimano’s GRX 2x11 (46/30 - 11-34) groupset, hydraulic disc brakes, and carbon forks for a smooth, responsive ride across changing road surfaces.

The 32 mm tyres strike a great balance between speed and grip, and the relaxed frame geometry suits all-day riders who want performance without the pain. Whether you’re spinning along Queen Charlotte Drive or climbing through the misty saddles of the West Coast, this is a great choice for our classic road tours.

Sinch E-Bike Jaunt EZ 3.5 Auto

Sinch E-Bike 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.

Guaranteeing A Great New Zealand Trip

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