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A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge  | Geoff Marks
A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge  | Geoff Marks
Cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail  | Ross Mackay
Lake Dunstan credit: Geoff Marks - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Lake Dunstan credit: Geoff Marks  | Geoff Marks
Taking in the serenity riding through Central Otago - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Taking in the serenity riding through Central Otago  | Cam Stables
Gravel Riding on the South Island Explorer - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Gravel Riding on the South Island Explorer  | Hana Black
Riding beyond the crowds - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Riding beyond the crowds  | Hana Black
Lake Dunstan Trail - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Lake Dunstan Trail  | Natalie Tambolash
Cyclists ride along the edge of Carrick Winery Vineyard, with Bannockburn Inlet in the background. - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Cyclists ride along the edge of Carrick Winery Vineyard, with Bannockburn Inlet in the background.  | Geoff Marks
Sunny day on Lake Dunstan - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Sunny day on Lake Dunstan  | Will Nelson
Stunning blue waters on the Lake Dunstan Trail - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Stunning blue waters on the Lake Dunstan Trail  | Lisa Jones
Exploring the south island of New Zealand - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Exploring the south island of New Zealand  | Hana Black
Gravel Riding - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Gravel Riding  | Hana Black
Views of the coastline climbing on Banks Peninsula - South Island Gravel Explorer, New Zealand
Views of the coastline climbing on Banks Peninsula  | Hana Black

South Island Gravel Explorer

Explore the South Islands best back country gravel roads from Christchurch to Queenstown

New Zealand
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 18 reviews

7 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: GGR
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 7 Days
Activities
  • 7 day gravel riding
Accommodation
  • 6 nights hotel/motel
Meals
  • 4 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 5

moderate to challenging

Carbon Footprint  

30kg of CO2-e PP per day

(182kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Challenge yourself with 7 days of breathtaking gravel riding
  • Enjoy incredible views of the Southern Alps from the Port Hills
  • Tackle some iconic back country passes - McKenzie and Hakataramea
  • Cycle through arid McKenzie Country surrounded by the highest peaks in the country
  • Enjoy a great section of the Alps to Ocean Trail through the Waitiki Valley
  • Admire a contrast of vivid blue lakes, sparkling rivers, snow capped mountains and golden tussock-lands
  • Ride the spectacular Lake Dunstan Trail, plus the magnificent Roxburgh Gorge Trail
  • Conclude the tour in iconic Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital
  • Indulge in award winning wine and local Kiwi cuisine

Overview

Explore the vast and impressive Mackenzie Basin and remote Central Otago on this remarkable gravel tour from Christchurch to Queenstown. We trace the footsteps of the early pioneers, along gold mining trails and stock routes which now form quiet back country roads.

Our journey begins with an awesome ride on the Port Hills with views of the vivid blue Akaroa Harbour, the crater of an extinct volcano. We then travel through beautiful farm country over the McKenzie Pass to the stunning turquoise Lake Tekapo and into the "big-sky country" of Central Otago. We cross the Hakataramea Pass and then ride through the Waitiki Valley on the Alps to Ocean Trail to Oamaru. Next up we cycle on the route of the historic railway, crossing viaducts, bridges and through railway tunnels dating back to the gold mining era of the 1880’s.

Our final two days take us along the Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge where we experience real isolation cycling alongside the Clutha River before we embark on the Lake Dunstan trail, surrounded by high mountain peaks and above a stunning gorge. We finish this epic cycle tour in Queenstown.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Today we find our cycle legs with a stunning ride on Port Hills, one of New Zealand's most unique landforms. We start with a short drive out of Christchurch and set off riding along a flat lakeside trail to warm up the legs. From there we're onto a rather grunty climb on a sealed road but the views from the top are magnificent. This is the crater rim of an extinct volcano with incredible views towards the Canterbury Plains, the snowy Southern Alps and into the vivid blue harbour. We cycle the undulating and almost traffic-free Summit Road, right along the 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. Loading up, we drive back to Christchurch in the afternoon and have free time to rest up before we meet for our first group dinner. Cycling Distance: 62km, Elevation Gain: +927m 75% unpaved

Meals: L,D

After breakfast, we load up our gear and drive to the small settlement of Cave on the edge of the Canterbury Plains with a coffee stop at Pleasant Point. This area, New Zealand’s only “flat” land, is wide open country with braided rivers teeming with trout and salmon. The Canterbury Plains are also rich in sheep and dairy farming and today’s ride finds us traveling through a pastoral landscape. Today our ride takes us up the Little Opawa River Valley and over the Waratah Saddle, winding through rolling farmland. We then head towards the tussock covered hills and over the Mackenzie Saddle (785m/2575ft) which cuts through the ranges and gives us our first views of the vast arid Mackenzie Country, where rivers flow through sweeping tussock plains with a backdrop of the snowy alps. We head northwards to meet the main highway at Dog Kennel Corner, a memorial to the importance of sheep dogs, prior to formal fencing of farmland. Here we load up to drive the final 15km along the main road to Tekapo. In early summer this road is lined with lupins creating an incredible splash of colour to the arid landscape. Upon arrival in Lake Tekapo, we take in views of the amazing turquoise water and the Southern Alps from the Church of the Good Shepherd. Dinner at your leisure tonight. Cycling Distance: Cave to Dog Kennel Corner - 66km Elevation Gain: 1293m 76% unpaved

Meals: B,L

This morning we retrace our steps by vehicle to Dog Kennel Corner and start riding from the turn off where we see a sign pointing to Hakataramea Pass. On gravel from the start, we leave civilisation and climb towards an indigo sky, lofty views of the Southern Alps and the cloud piercer, Aoraki/Mt Cook behind us are now even more imposing above the Mackenzie Basin, whose truly vast scale is more easily appreciated as we approach the pass. The pass, marked with a fence-line, gate and signposts to destinations in both directions, proudly announces the pass is at 965m (3230ft) above sea level. A short winding descent leads to the broad Hakataramea Valley. The imposing Kirkliston Range to the west towers above the ordered, rolling farmland and we descend to Kurow, a small town where the Hakataramea and Waitaki valleys meet and our overnight stop. Cycling Distance: Hakataramea Road to Kurow – 76km Elevation Gain: 646m 54% unpaved

Meals: B,L,D

We'll spend today on the spectacular Alps to Ocean trail riding from Kurow out to Oamaru, a coastal town on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. From Kurow, the 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. Here we turn inland to cycle on a mixture of trail and quiet rural roads. A walk among the unusual rock formations known locally as Elephant Rocks is a must-do on the way past. Following a short section of an old branch railway line we cycle through Raki's tunnel before a downhill ride into the settlement of Windsor. After lunch we cycle through picturesque rolling rural countryside, past the Oamaru stone quarry to Friendly Bay and the end of the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail. Our accommodation is within convenient walking distance to the historic precinct and Steampunk HQ. Cycle Distance: Kurow to Oamaru - 83km Elevation Gain: 619m 88% unpaved Accommodation: Oamaru

Meals: B,L,D

Today's terrain is mostly on an old railway line so hard packed shingle and no steep climbs makes the riding relatively straightforward! The main feature of the ride is the best section of New Zealand’s original and most famous “Great Ride,” the Otago Central Rail Trail. Steeped in history, this off-road rail trail offers a scenic and historic journey into the Central Otago heartland. This ever-changing landscape includes rugged mountains, crystal clear rivers, and steep winding gorges. Keen riders can choose to ride the extra 33kms to reach the Rail Trail from our accommodation, with the rest joining in from the iconic Wedderburn Station. From here it’s a steady climb to the highest point on the trail before dropping down to cycle over the impressive Poolburn viaduct and Manuherikia Bridge and through the 229m Poolburn tunnel. With views of the Dunstan Mountains and the Raggedy Range, we continue on to Alexandra, our home for the next 2 nights. Dinner at your leisure tonight. Cycling Distance: Wedderburn to Alexandra - 71km Elevation Gain: 387m Unpaved : 98%

Meals: B,L

Today we get to ride on 2 stunning NZ Great Rides (Clutha Gold Trail & Roxburgh Gorge Trail) alongside the mighty Clutha River. The day begins with a drive to Beaumont where we start on the Clutha Gold Trail, riding 20kms through the scenic Beaumont Gorge. Emerging from the Gorge, we’ll reach the small farming settlement of Millers Flat. The next 30kms takes us past interesting riverside landmarks and deep into the orchard-lands of the Teviot Valley. The impressive Roxburgh hydro dam marks the end of one trail and the start of the next. With amazing vistas across the Lake Roxburgh the trail drops into a gorge and then heads away from the water passing through a small secluded valley and into sweeping hill country. At Elbow Creek, it’s a gradual descent to Shingle Creek, to meet a jet boat taking us 13km upriver to Doctor’s Point. The second half of the Roxburgh trail is equally remote and awe-inspiring with stone-walled water races and other remnants of gold mining activity. We emerge from the gorge back in Alexandra. Clutha Gold/Roxburgh Gorge Trails : 77km Elevation Gain: 620m plus 10km Jetboat 85% unpaved

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the culmination of our epic adventure as we cycle the iconic Great Ride, the Lake Dunstan Trail. This spectacular ride takes us through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along the Clutha, the Kawarau River and the shores of Lake Dunstan. The region’s rich modern, pioneering and Maori historical stories are integrated along the way, some of which are brought to life in Clyde and Cromwell Historical Precinct. First, we begin with a delightful ride along the River trail from Alexandra to Clyde where we then join the Lake Dunstan Trail. From Clyde, you pass the historically controversial hydroelectric Clyde Dam, responsible for damming the Clutha River and creating of Lake Dunstan. Next up, the stunning Cromwell Gorge where you cycle around sheer rock faces and over lake inlets on impressively engineered platforms and bridges rising above Lake Dunstan, eventually meeting the Kawarau River at Cornish Point. Passing vineyards and olive groves the trail crosses the Bannockburn Bridge and ducks into the Cromwell Heritage Precinct where we’ll have a brief stop to explore before heading along the shores of Lake Dunstan where the trail finishes part way up the lake. Our concluding drive takes us through the picturesque Kawerau Gorge to Queenstown, passing the vine-lined Gibbston Valley and the famous Kawerau Bungy Bridge, ultimately reaching Queenstown, the grand finale of our gravel adventure. You will be dropped at a central location in town. Cycling Distance: 71km Elevation Gain : +698m 95% unpaved

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

8 scheduled departures between 5 Nov 2026 and 8 Apr 2028.

  • Departs 5 Nov 2026 – ends 11 Nov 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 16 Dec 2026 – ends 22 Dec 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 25 Feb 2027 – ends 3 Mar 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 9 Apr 2027 – ends 15 Apr 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 4 Nov 2027 – ends 10 Nov 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 15 Dec 2027 – ends 21 Dec 2027 (7 days)
  • … and 2 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x6), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x4) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 6 nights hand picked hotel/motel 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 to Queenstown
  • 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 than breakfast
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Optional activities
  • 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 (18)

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I participated in the South Island Gravel Explorer from 24 Feb 26 to 2 Mar 26. We were a group of 7 mates from Perth and 5 additional cyclists of which 4 came from other countries. After a rest day in Queenstown the Perth 7 had three more great days of riding with the same guides and support. My comments apply equally to both parts and the ten days total riding.

I rode a brand-new Trek Checkpoint E gravel bike. After a day getting used to the power system I fell in love with this bike. Great gearing and braking and instinctive power system. This is a go anywhere bike which came into its own on the many uphill sections. As an example, at the steep end to Mackenzie Pass where experienced manual bike riders ran out of gears the E-bike's power system made all the difference.

The routes were amazing show casing the incredible scenery of the South Island including the three great passes and the famous Otago Rail Trail. Each day presented its own challenges and variety.

Our guides were fantastic. They made a point of quickly assessing each rider's abilities and building trust.

Every day ran so smoothly with subtle changes made on the run to accommodate changing weather and conditions. Shatel's regular briefings, delivered with panache and humour added to the great sense of adventure. David with his quiet sense of humour was always working tirelessly in the background to keep everything running smoothly. I can't say enough in praise of these two amazing people!

Accommodation and meals all excellent with a couple of wild cards thrown in: the geodesic domes at Kurow and the country pub at Lumsden.

The bus, the regular snacks, drinks and coffee all appeared seamlessly at every stop.

This was one of the most enjoyable outdoor holidays I have experienced. I can't recommend it enough for experienced cyclists looking for a great off-road experience.

Michael Y|WA, Australia
10 Apr 2026
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Excellent bikes and high calibre guides. Attention to detail and support for all participants by Shantel and David.

Robert S|WA, Australia
13 Mar 2026
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This was my seventh multi-day bike tour and my first with Adventure South. I had a great time with a very nice group of people. We endured all of the elements over the seven days including heat, rain, cold and wind. A few route changes were made due to road closures and weather. The AS team handled these changes without a fuss and had us on alternate routes. The food and accommodation was very good, and it was nice to have proper gravel bikes which were perfect for the terrain we covered.

Andrew M|Arizona, United States
12 Mar 2026
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Shantel and Dave were the consummate guides and the south island scenery spectacular.

Peter R|WA, Australia
8 Mar 2026
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Shantel and Dave were absolutely excellent in dealing with the various challenges thrown up by a large group tackling a physically demanding trip. Nothing was ever a problem.

Patrick M|VIC, Australia
8 Mar 2026
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Our guides (Shantel & David) were fabulous and hard working to ensure our riding experience was the best it could be. The rides were as described and covered the best on offer in Otago / Queenstown. We all had a great time.

Dean F|WA, Australia
7 Mar 2026
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An excellent gravel adventure, not easy but well worth the riding! Tough climbs, thrilling downhills and the scenery was fantastic. Finishing on the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail was an amazing way to end the trip. Our guides were great, Shantel and David were fun to be with and they did an excellent job managing the challenges thrown at them. The people we met were great, food and accommodations were excellent. We would do it all over again!

Diane and Randall

Diane B|Canada
6 Mar 2026
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Awesome tour with Annie and Teresa as fantastic guides. Good mix of easier and challenging routes over the tour. Definitely recommend.

Antony H|ACT, Australia
10 Mar 2025
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Fantastic gravel ride adventure. The daily rides were well planned and our guides were very experienced, helpful knowledgeable and great company.

Without hesitation I recommend Adventure South as the memories of this holiday will last forever.

Damian E|WA, Australia
10 Mar 2025

Extra trip info

AccommodationBikesTrail surfacesWill My Trip Run?
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.

Merida Silex 700

Merida Silex 700 (Gravel Bike) - Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL:

The Merida Silex 700 is our go-to gravel bike -- stable, responsive, and ready for the kind of backcountry riding we share. Built with a lightweight aluminium frame and carbon fork, it's designed for long days in the saddle. With relaxed geometry that takes the edge off the climbs, and keeps you feeling confident on the descents.

The 1x12 (42 / 10-51) Shimano GRX drivetrain gives you a wide range of gears without the faff of a front derailleur. The 45mm tires soak up the bumps while still rolling fast across seal, gravel and everything in between. It's the perfect match for the kind of riding we love to share.

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.

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.

Hana Black Photos - GGR | Hana Black

Gravel Roads 90%

Cyclists need to be comfortable riding on a mix of compacted and rough gravel surfaces including graded roads and deeper gravel.

Fast downhill and awesome views in the Crown Range

Paved Roads 10%

Approx 10% of this trip is on 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.

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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