Happy cyclists on the Alps to Ocean trail

Cycling alongside Lake Dunstan - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Cycling alongside Lake Dunstan | James Jubb, Tourism Central Otago

Cycling through the West Coast wetlands in New Zealand - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Cycling through the West Coast wetlands in New Zealand | Lachlan Gardiner

Cycling across viaducts on our Otago Rail Trail adventure is a real highlight - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Cycling across viaducts on our Otago Rail Trail adventure is a real highlight | Colin Monteath

McPherson Creek swingbridge - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

McPherson Creek swingbridge | Lachlan Gardiner

Cycling along the striking Lake Pukaki - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Cycling along the striking Lake Pukaki | Daniel Thour

We take regular stops on the trail to refuel - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

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

Lake Dunstan Trail - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Lake Dunstan Trail | Natalie Tambolash

Cheers! New Zealand hospitality is like no other - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

Cheers! New Zealand hospitality is like no other | Lachlan Gardiner

Panorama of Queenstown, the 'adventure capital' of New Zealand - South Island Great Rides Explorer, New Zealand

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

South Island Great Rides Explorer

Explore three of NZ's most scenic and diverse multi-day cycle trails, the Alps to Ocean, Otago Rail Trail and the West Coast Wilderness Trail plus some one-day wonder trails

New Zealand

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87 reviews

15 Days from

Trip Code: USI

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Duration

15 Days

Activities

13 days cycling

Accommodation

14 nights hotel/motel

Meals

9 Dinners
8 Lunches
12 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: moderate
The Triple Trails Cycle is graded moderate. You will need a good level of fitness and we suggest 90 minutes of cycling three times a week for the three months leading up to your trip. You will need to be able to cycle 50-60km each day, day after day, be used to hills and riding on hard packed gravel. We recommend training on compacted gravel trails, and completing a multi-day ride prior to your trip to get used to being in the saddle for long periods of time. The more challenging sections over the Tarnbrae Saddle and from Sailors Cutting to the Benmore Dam (on the Alps to Ocean) and the Lake Dunstan Trail include narrower tracks with some switchbacks and exposure in places. With the trip being fully supported, less confident riders can choose to miss these sections with easier options available and the van is always available if you want to shorten the ride on any day.
3 / 5
moderate

Carbon Footprint

22kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(312kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Cycle the spectacular Alps to Ocean, Central Otago Rail Trail and the West Coast Wilderness Trail all in one trip!
Hike beneath Aoraki/Mt Cook in the World Heritage National Park
Explore the charming Victorian Precinct in Oamaru
Time to explore Dunedin a wonderful southern city
Taste award wining Pinot Noir in a boutique Central Otago winery
Ride the gorge section of the spectacular Lake Dunstan Trail
Enjoy the beauty of Queenstown and the numerous activities it has to offer
Wander at Lake Matheson, famous for its sunrise reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook
Admire NZ’s native birds and forest from a Treetop Walkway
Take in the rugged coastlines, pristine lakes and alpine landscapes of the West Coast
Ride the newly opened Kawarau Gorge Trail, expected to open late 2026.

Overview

Majestic rugged mountains, spectacular glaciers, wild coastlines, emerald blue lakes - it's all here and within reach. New Zealand boasts an amazing variety of landscapes and equally amazing biking. Explore three of NZ's multi-day Cycle Trails on a 15 day adventure within the South Island.

We begin with 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 to end this trail at the small port of Oamaru on the Pacific Ocean. From Dunedin we head inland to embark on the second of our trails, the Otago Central Rail Trail. Following the course of the historic railway, we cross viaducts, travel through rail tunnels and quaint sleepy railway towns. On arrival in Clyde we get to ride a section of the spectacular Lake Dunstan trail as an added bonus!

We have a free day in Queenstown within the beautiful Lakes District, before heading to another lakeside town, Wanaka. From Queenstown, our day's itinerary will depend on when the newest Great Ride, the Kawarau Gorge trail opens, but expect a selection of stunning trails surrounded by mountains, lakes and gorges before transferring to the lakeside town of Wanaka. From Wanaka we continue north, crossing Haast Pass where you'll be greeted by lush rainforests and surreal coastlines featuring high cliffs and crashing seas. Your cycling efforts will be rewarded on reaching the world famous Fox Glacier. We'll visit beautiful Lake Matheson before heading to Ross and the start of our third and final cycle trail, the West Coast Wilderness. Following extensive water races, logging tramways and historic railway lines, we will emerge on the rugged coast at Hokitika and ride to Greymouth.

We finish this epic journey by crossing the Southern Alps a second time at Arthur's Pass; and then descend to Christchurch to the end of this amazing adventure.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Your adventure begins with a drive across the picturesque Canterbury Plains to Geraldine for a refreshment break before continuing to Lake Tekapo Village for lunch. Its picturesque lake is the first of the storage lakes which feed the hydro schemes in the basin and down the Waitaki Valley. This afternoon we set away on the first of the three NZ Great Rides we are to conquer this tour - the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, following quiet roads that follow the turquoise blue waters of the canal system. On return to Tekapo we have the option to visit the local hot pools to ease any first day muscle aches (own expense). The famous Church of the Good Shepherd and nearby statue standing as a tribute to the sheepdogs that make farming the Mackenzie Basin possible are local icons. We meet in the early evening to have our first group dinner together. Cycle Distance: Tekapo to Lake Pukaki - 30 km

Meals: D

After breakfast this morning we drive to our next cycling point on the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail alongside the Tekapo hydro canal. We enjoy some flat easy riding past salmon farms to the edge of Lake Pukaki, joining the lakeside cycle trail and with spectacular mountain vistas. From the road end, Aoraki/Mt Cook beckons so we load up and drive to The Hermitage where we have the option to enjoy a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (own expense) or the informative Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre (free of charge). In the afternoon you’ll also have the chance to put your walking shoes on and take in the stunning glacier and mountain views from either the Hooker Valley track, the Sealey Tarns track, the Red Tarns track, the Kea Point track, or the Tasman Glacier view point. We stay in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village tonight, and enjoy an evening, dining and relaxing below the highest peaks in the Southern Alps. Cycle Distance: Pukaki to Twizel - 24 km Hiking Distances: Kea Point Track: 5km/2hr return from Village; Red Tarns Track: 3.7km/2hr (330m gain); Hooker Valley Track : 10km/3-4hrs; Sealey Tarns Track: 5.3km/3-4hr (2,200 steps 550m elevation gain); Tasman Glacier Viewpoint : - 3km/45 mins (includes 300 steps)

Meals: B,L

This morning, after a short transfer to the nearby village of Twizel, we cycle past Lake Ruataniwha and Lake Ohau, mostly on cycle trail, to Lake Ohau Lodge for lunch. After we've refuelled our bodies, those who would like a challenge can continue on the trail, which starts its steady climb up to the Tarnbrae Saddle. At 900m this is the highpoint of the whole Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail and your efforts are rewarded with stunning views across the Mackenzie Basin. Alternatively for those who want a relaxing afternoon there is the option to transfer by vehicle and enjoy a final, mostly downhill and flat ride on the trail into Omarama, our stop for the night. Omarama is called "Place of Light" in Maori terminology, a reference to its extraordinarily pure and clear sky. This region is also famous for gliding due to some unique air wave systems and feisty thermals. This evening enjoy an optional soak in a private hot tub of fresh mountain water (own expense). Cycle Distance: Twizel to Lake Ohau - 38 km Ohau to Omarama - 41 km Short option: Quailburn to Omarama - 23 km

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 join the lakeshore to traverse around the shoreline of rocky outcrops, little beaches and even tree covered islands. The trail then drops us down from above the Benmore Dam to join a 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 delightful undulating cycle towards Aviemore Dam, where we’ll enjoy a picnic by the lake. After crossing the Aviemore Dam, the Grade 2 off road section passes the ghost town of Wharekuri, before passing Lake Waitaki and the Waitaki Dam continuing off road to the small settlement of Kurow. 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 stay overnight in Kurow or Duntroon where we enjoy a group dinner together. Cycle Distance: between 67km-89km

Meals: B,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 amidst more spectacular limestone outcrops and landscapes as we gradually descend towards Oamaru where the Alps to Ocean trail ends on the Pacific Coast. The beautifully restored historic Oamaru Victorian quarter is home to Steampunk and in season features street actors providing entertainment, local crafts, cafes and bars. After a chance to enjoy the finish of our first trail we drive down the Pacific Ocean coastal road to Dunedin, our home for the next two nights. Cycle Distance: Kurow or Duntroon to Oamaru - Up to 82 km

Meals: B,L

Dunedin is the provincial capital of Otago, and blends rich history with modern edge. We have our first free day here and you can spend the day exploring the city and its many cafes. Your bikes will be available for you to use. The Otago Peninsula and Port Chalmers are interesting locations and easily accessible by bike. By the time the Scottish settlers arrived in Dunedin around the mid-19th century, they found an area rich in Maori history. The rough, tough and enterprising whalers added another element of diversity to this burgeoning Otago harbour. The cultural mix of Maori, whaler and Scot gave early Dunedin a character all of its own, and here you will find some of the finest examples of Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. Dunedin’s railway station, known as one of the world’s most beautiful train stations, is said to be the most photographed building in New Zealand.

Meals: Nil

Today we embark on the second of our cycle trails - the Otago Central Rail Trail, a beautiful 150 kilometre historic journey into the Central Otago heartland. We will drive inland to Middlemarch and set off on this historic trail, passing by tunnels and 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. Our destination today is Waipiata, a sleepy town in the heart of the Maniototo Plain, where we can visit the tavern dating back to 1933 for some well deserved refreshments. Cycle Distance: Otago Central Rail Trail - Middlemarch to Waipiata - 53 km

Meals: B,L,D

Today's ever-changing landscape includes rugged mountains, crystal clear rivers, and steep winding gorges. After breakfast we set off continuing along the rail trail towards Ranfurly and Wedderburn. Be sure to watch for the planets of the solar system along the way and take note of their proportional sizes and distances. We cycle over the impressive Poolburn viaduct and Manuherikia Bridge and through the 229m Poolburn tunnel to arrive in Lauder. Late afternoon we’ll drive to St Bathans for a walk around the surreal Blue Lake formed during the 1800s gold days. Enjoy a game of pool or banter at the Lauder pub before we tuck into a well-earned dinner. Cycle Distance: Waipiata to Lauder - 57 km

Meals: B,D

Today we complete the the Otago Central Rail Trail and ride the gorge section of the newly completed Lake Dunstan trail. For views of the Dunstan Mountains and the Raggedy Range, we hop on the bus for the short detour to must-see Ophir township and the lookout for a bird’s eye view of region. We finish the rail trail in Clyde, a quaint historic town in this up and coming wine region. Clyde was once a wild and rollicking “canvas” town bustling with gold miners, shop keepers and ever-present dancing girls. After lunch we cross the Clutha River and enter the stunning Cromwell Gorge where we’ll cycle around sheer rockfaces and over lake inlets on impressively engineered platforms and bridges rising above Lake Dunstan. We meet the van again at Cornish Point. Here we load up and travel through the beautiful Gibbston Valley, known for its world renowned vineyards and continue out to the Kawarau Gorge and the iconic Bungy Bridge – home of Bungy. After watching and perhaps thinking about taking the leap of faith, we continue to Queenstown and our accommodation for the next two nights. Queenstown is the world’s adrenalin capital and makes a fitting point to take a rest day from our riding adventure. Surrounded by majestic mountains and hugging the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is the perfect place to relax. Cycle Distance: Otago Central Rail Trail - Lauder to Clyde - 45 km Lake Dunstan Trail - Clyde to Cornish Point - 25 km

Meals: B,D

Today is a day at leisure in Queenstown. There are optional excursions to either Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound (own expense). These tours have an early start with a bus journey to either Manapouri (to visit Doubtful Sound) or Milford Sound to join an amazing cruise into Fiordland. There is also an option to bus one way to Milford Sound and fly back to Queenstown by helicopter or small plane. We are happy to assist with bookings. Others in the group might like to enjoy a relaxing day in Queenstown, taking in the scenery, visiting galleries, cafes and restaurants, if not partaking in a bungy jump, a sky dive, jet boating or some other adrenalin activity!

Meals: Nil

Today we make our way to Wanaka, New Zealand’s capital of mountain chill. We’ll head straight to the old gold mining town of Arrowtown and start our adventure on the picturesque Arrow River Bridges Trail. The trail crosses five bridges over the willow-lined Arrow River on its way to Gibbston Valley, where we connect to the Gibbston River Trail winding its way high above the Kawarau River through Central Otago’s premier wine-growing region. Fuelled by a scenic picnic lunch, we’re ready to tackle the newest Great Ride, the Kawarau Gorge Trail which has opened up previously inaccessible segments of the stunning Kawarau Gorge. Meandering around the Nevis Bluff, you’ll be riding on bluff bridges around the edge of the Kawarau River, past rapids with a spectacular view up the mouth of the Nevis River. Cross two impressive suspension bridges as you navigate the gorge and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area along the way with incredible stories of early gold mining days, ingenious power generation projects, tales of rabbit hunting, and the ancient routes traversed by early Maori. The trail ends in the small historic gold mining town of Bannockburn where we’ll load up and transfer past Lake Dunstan to the vibrant lakeside town of Wanaka. Cycle Distance: 53km/33miles

Meals: B,D

This morning we will start our drive skirting the edges of Lake Hawea and Wanaka with Mt Aspiring National Park as the backdrop, before climbing over the Haast Pass to the west coast of the South Island, renowned for it's glaciers and wild coastlines. The road is bordered by rainforest and mountains on one side and the wild ocean on the other. This is mainly a driving day (journey time approx 6 hours), but we will enjoy stopping at a number of waterfalls and scenic points for short walks along the way. We end our day in the tiny township of Fox Glacier, home to one of only 3 temperate glaciers in the world. There will be time to enjoy a short walk before dinner.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we have a dawn start to take a sunrise walk around the jewel-like Lake Matheson, a photographer’s paradise with potential to capture brilliant mountainous reflections. Weather permitting and subject to availability, there is an option to join a scenic flight over Aoraki/Mt Cook and the glaciers instead (own expense). After breakfast we continue north to the gold mining town of Ross, where we connect up with the last of our cycle trails - the West Coast Wilderness Trail. We follow the cycleway north to Hokitika, with a stop at the Treetop Walkway, to experience a unique adventure walking on custom built platforms among temperate rainforest giants. The trail continues along historic logging tramways and through stunning west coast bush to Hokitika, a loveable little town fronted by a dramatic beach and famous for pounamu (greenstone) and other arts & crafts. And sunsets. Our one night here won’t feel like enough. Cycle Distance: 33 km

Meals: B,L

Today is a big day following the West Coast Wilderness to Kumara. We set off from Hokitika and soon join the old Kaniere water race, before leading us to the shores of the beautiful Lake Kaniere, nestled against the Southern Alps. After a short climb along rural roads, the trail takes us to a coffee stop at Milltown, home of saw-milling in earlier times. We cross a swing bridge and then a kilometre of switchback climbing takes us to the highpoint and more superb riding. From here it's mainly downhill, as we follow water races, bush tracks and reservoir roads taking in the spectacular views as we gradually descend to the interesting settlement of Kumara. We have time to relax in the beautiful historic hotel that is our accommodation. Tonight we enjoy our last evening meal together, celebrating new friendships and our cycling achievements of the past 2 weeks. Cycle Distance: Hokitika to Kumara - 70 km

Meals: B,L,D

Our final day of the tour sees us completing the Wilderness Trail as we ride from Kumara to Greymouth on a combination of riverside and coastal pathways. The old road and rail bridge is just one highlight as we head towards the town centre and finish our riding at the official end point. After a café lunch, there’s time for a stroll around the town or an optional visit to the historic Monteith's Brewery for a celebratory drink before our spectacular drive across the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass. On arrival into Christchurch in the early evening we will drop you off in the central city, where trip arrangements conclude. Cycle Distance: Kumara to Greymouth - 30 km

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

13 scheduled departures between 23 Oct 2026 and 12 Apr 2028.

Departs 23 Oct 2026 – ends 6 Nov 2026 (15 days)
Departs 24 Nov 2026 – ends 8 Dec 2026 (15 days)
Departs 16 Jan 2027 – ends 30 Jan 2027 (15 days)
Departs 1 Feb 2027 – ends 15 Feb 2027 (15 days)
Departs 11 Mar 2027 – ends 25 Mar 2027 (15 days)
Departs 1 Apr 2027 – ends 15 Apr 2027 (15 days)
… and 7 more departures.

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

Tasty cafe breakfasts (x12), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x8), two course restaurant dinners (x9) catered to all dietary requirements
14 nights 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
Bike hire of a hybrid mountain bike (with helmet)
Wine tasting at a Waitaki vineyard
Entrance fee to West Coast Treetop Walkway
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
Rider fees paid to the Cycle Trail Trust for ongoing maintenance and improvements, concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

Not included

International or domestic flights and taxes
Arrival and departure transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages, other than breakfast
e-Bike Hire (a surcharge is payable)
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Optional activities (e.g. Steampunk Museum, Penguin watching in Oamaru, activities in Queenstown, scenic flight from Fox or Franz Josef Glacier)
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.

Videos

Otago Central Rail Trail Highlights

Lake Dunstan Trail Highlights

New Zealand Cycling Holidays | Webinar Replay

Our Premium e-Bikes: Features and Benefits

Our Guides: The Heart and Soul of Your Adventure

Reviews (87)

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An unforgettable NZ experience.

Bryan B|Australia

15 Apr 2026

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Overall an excellent trip. Top notch guides who took very good care of us. Meals and accommodations all very acceptable. Great variety of scenic trails some with spectacular views and a really good cycling group.

Robert P|Canada

6 Apr 2026

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The design and inclusions in this trip itinerary laid the foundation for 15 days of wonder as the NZ natural environment is one that takes your breath away. Every detail was attended to with ample time for riding, breaks, meals, interaction between the group and our exceptional guides and downtime in interesting towns along the way. The NZ natural environment was fully show-cased, and each day provided spectacular scenery, and memories that will provide a lifetime of marvel and joy.

The equipment including the coach, trailer and specifically the bikes are well maintained and cared for meaning the functionality and reliability worked without a hitch. This was also evident in the attention paid to the bikes during the trip with regular care and attention such as a timely washdown (after dusty trails) and the application of chain lube to keep the gears smooth!

The food was sensational and more than ample! Snacks for the bus or between breaks were diverse (nuts, chocolate, fruit bars etc) and always available. Ride day tea breaks were a special treat because our guides provided local delicacies (cheese, slices, ANZAC biscuits, hot cross buns, fruit etc) tea and coffee that really hit the spot. The included breakfast, lunch and dinner meals were provided at the best locations and serves always very generous and delicious. Of note were the café breakfast on most ride days, meaning our fuel tanks were full and we were ready to tackle another great day in the saddle.

All the above is necessary to provide an experience that meets the expectations of the riders. The defining bonus that elevated the experience to the next level were our professional, exceptionally capable and caring guides Chris Cameron and Dorz Howe. Chris and Dorz ensured each day went off without a hitch, minor hiccups were dealt with effectively and efficiency with little to no impact on the group or our daily schedule.

Chri and Dorz are exceptionally brilliant people with a generosity and willingness to share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors and NZ to the enrichment of all those fortunate enough to be on their trips.

Without hesitation I recommend Adventure South NZ, and this trip specifically and will be returning to experience more NZ awesomeness in years to come.

Lynelle B|QLD, Australia

2 Apr 2026

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Excellent trip overall: fantastic guides, amazing and varied cycling trails, nice places to stay and good food. I would recommend the trip highly to all.

Carolyn H|Washington, United States

2 Apr 2026

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The guide team was enthusiastic, caring and experienced.

Lindsay P|Washington, USA

1 Apr 2026

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I love traveling by bike, and experiencing travel at pedal pace. I have used many different cycle tour providers. Adventure South was simply amazing. The routes were creative and varied and the guides simply could not have been better!

William H|Washington, United States

29 Mar 2026

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Very enjoyable trip

No complaints

Guides were first class

Georgina G|VIC, Australia

29 Mar 2026

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Awesome trip would highly recommend it to any bike enthusiast. The range of tracks was incredible and views amazing.

Yvette C|New Zealand

29 Mar 2026

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Fabulous combination of rides, with superb guides (Dorz and Chris). Accommodation was very good despite some of the more out-of-the way places.

Clark C|New Zealand

28 Mar 2026

Extra trip info

Accommodation Bikes Trail surfaces Will 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. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Lauder School | Accommodation | Lachlan Gardiner

Lauder School B&B

Formerly the Lauder Railway School in the charming village of Lauder, this historic accommodation offers tastefully decorated rooms reflecting a school house theme. Welcomed by your lovely hosts, you might spend a night in the old staff room, art room, library room, drama cottage or music room, while those of you misbehaving could be given the detention shed! Rooms have a mix of ensuite facitliies and some have shared bathrooms.

Theatre Royal Hotel

The Theatre Royal Hotel is the West Coast's only fully restored gold miners’ hotel, and once world-renowned theatre. The historic gold rush hotel features six themed ensuite accommodation rooms. Each room is unique, with its blend of Victorian decor, antique furnishings, modern amenities and West Coast charm. There is also a range of comfortable and spacious restored and replica miners cottages.

Beachfront Hotel

Overlooking the beach, the stunning Beachfront Hotel is located in central Hokitika, with beachcombing, shopping, artisan shops, and galleries right on the hotel’s doorstep. Each room is spacious with ensuite bathroom and has tea and coffee making facilities.

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 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.

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

Cycling from Lauder to Ranfurly in the Poolburn Gorge | Lachlan Gardiner

Compacted Gravel

Enjoy cycling on traffic free, compacted gravel trail surfaces. Cyclists need to be confident riding on uneven surfaces and aware that riding on this surface will reduce cycling speeds.

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

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

This surface is manageable for most, however cyclists need to be comfortable riding on rougher gravel surfaces including graded roads and deeper gravel.

Rough Shingle

Small sections of the Alps to 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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