Cycle New Zealand’s Longest and Most Scenic Great Ride
Alps 2 Ocean bike tours offer one of the most diverse and scenic cycling experiences in New Zealand, beginning at either Aoraki / Mount Cook or Lake Tekapo and finishing at the Pacific Coast town of Ōamaru. Spanning over 300 kilometres, this epic trail is part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail network, taking riders from alpine landscapes through glacial lakes, rolling farmland, and heritage-rich towns. The Lake Tekapo start offers a slightly easier gradient, while the Aoraki option begins with a spectacular helicopter transfer over the Tasman River.
These bike tours can be fully supported or self-guided, with services including bike hire, luggage transfers, transport, and accommodation. E-bikes are also available, allowing riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy the full trail or select sections. With a mix of off-road trails and quiet country roads, Alps 2 Ocean bike tours provide a seamless way to connect with the South Island’s natural beauty and welcoming rural communities.
Ride Through Lakes, Valleys, and Small-Town New Zealand
Each section of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail brings something unique. From the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and the alpine scenery around Twizel, to the vast open spaces of the Waitaki Valley, every day offers new highlights. The trail meanders through charming townships like Kurow and Duntroon, where riders can explore local cafés, limestone landscapes, and Māori rock art sites.
As you near the trail’s end in Ōamaru, you’ll cycle through coastal countryside and finish your ride at the Pacific Ocean, where Victorian architecture and the town’s famous little blue penguins await. Whether completed over five to seven days or enjoyed in shorter segments, Alps 2 Ocean bike tours offer a truly unforgettable way to experience the South Island’s vast and varied terrain, all at the perfect pace.
