15-Day South Island Great Rides Cycling Tour

Kick off your adventure with a scenic drive across the Canterbury Plains, pausing for a refreshment break in the charming town of Geraldine. Continue on to Lake Tekapo Village for lunch, where you’ll be captivated by the lake’s stunning turquoise waters—part of the hydro storage system feeding the Waitaki Valley.

In the afternoon, begin your first cycling experience along the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, following quiet roads beside the canal’s vibrant blue waters. Back in Tekapo, you can opt for a relaxing soak in the local hot pools (own expense) to ease any muscle tension. Before dinner, take time to visit two local icons—the Church of the Good Shepherd and the sheepdog tribute statue, both significant to the Mackenzie Basin. We gather in the evening for our first group meal to wrap up the day.

After breakfast, we drive to our next starting point along the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, following the Tekapo hydro canal. The ride is an easy, flat route past salmon farms, leading to Lake Pukaki’s edge, where breathtaking views of the Southern Alps unfold. We then travel by vehicle to The Hermitage, located at the base of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Here, you can visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (own expense) or explore the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre (free of charge).

In the afternoon, put on your walking shoes to discover the stunning glacier and mountain views. Choose from several popular walking tracks, including the Sealey Tarns, the Hooker Valley Track, or the Tasman Glacier viewpoint. We end the day at Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, where we relax and dine beneath the awe-inspiring peaks of the Southern Alps.

After a short transfer to Twizel, begin the day’s ride along the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, passing the serene waters of Lake Ruataniwha and Lake Ohau. We reach Lake Ohau Lodge for a well-deserved lunch. Those seeking an extra challenge can continue cycling as the trail ascends steadily to Tarnbrae Saddle, the trail’s highest point at 900 metres, offering spectacular views across the Mackenzie Basin.

For a more relaxed option, you can take a vehicle transfer to bypass the climb and enjoy a final, mostly downhill ride into Omarama. Known as the “Place of Light” in Māori, Omarama is famed for its clear skies and gliding conditions. End your day by relaxing in a private hot tub filled with mountain spring water (own expense).

Cycle Distance: Twizel to Lake Ohau – 38 km | Lake Ohau to Omarama – 41 km | Short Option: Quailburn to Omarama – 23 km

Today’s journey follows the stunning Waitaki Valley, famous for its hydro lakes and dams. We start by cycling along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting, then continue along a trail that weaves through rocky outcrops, small beaches, and tree-covered islands. The trail descends near Benmore Dam, leading to a quiet lakeside road. For those who prefer an easier route, there’s a less technical alternative available.

After regrouping, we cycle through scenic rolling terrain toward Aviemore Dam, stopping for a lakeside picnic. The adventure continues past the ghost town of Wharekuri, Lake Waitaki, and the Waitaki Dam, before arriving at the settlement of Kurow. Here, you’ll have time to explore the beautifully restored St Albans Church and enjoy local wine tasting. We end the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Kurow or Duntroon.

Cycle Distance: 67 km to 89 km

We begin the day cycling along the Waitaki River, passing vineyards and a Māori rock art site before arriving in the small town of Duntroon. From there, the trail takes us inland through rolling countryside to the striking Elephant Rocks, a field of massive limestone formations. Continuing on the old railway line, we ride through Raki’s Tunnel and descend through more dramatic limestone landscapes toward Oamaru, where the Alps to Ocean trail concludes at the Pacific Coast.

Oamaru’s beautifully restored Victorian quarter offers plenty to explore, including local crafts, cafes, and the famous Steampunk-themed attractions. After enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, we drive along the scenic coastal road to Dunedin, where we’ll spend the next two nights.

Today is your opportunity to explore Dunedin, the provincial capital of Otago, at your leisure. This city offers a unique blend of rich history and modern charm. Wander through its many cafes, or take your bike to nearby attractions like the Otago Peninsula and Port Chalmers. These areas are easily accessible and provide a glimpse into Dunedin’s diverse heritage.

By the mid-19th century, Scottish settlers, Māori communities, and enterprising whalers had shaped the city’s vibrant character. You’ll discover some of the finest examples of Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. A highlight is Dunedin’s iconic railway station, often called one of the world’s most beautiful and the most photographed building in New Zealand.

Today marks the start of our second cycle adventure on the historic Otago Central Rail Trail, a 150-kilometre journey through Central Otago’s heartland. We drive to Middlemarch, where we set off along the trail, cycling past tunnels and bridges once used by railway workers. Along the way, marvel at the natural beauty and the impressive early engineering achievements of the region’s first settlers.

Our ride ends in Waipiata, a peaceful town on the Maniototo Plain. Here, you can unwind with refreshments at the local tavern, which has been welcoming travellers since 1933. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the day’s journey before we settle in for the night.

Cycle Distance: Middlemarch to Waipiata – 53 km

Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

Today’s ride takes us through a stunning and diverse landscape of rugged mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and winding gorges. After breakfast, we continue cycling along the Otago Central Rail Trail, passing through Ranfurly and Wedderburn. Keep an eye out for the solar system models placed along the trail, showcasing planets in proportionate scale.

We cross the impressive Poolburn Viaduct and Manuherikia Bridge, then cycle through the 229-metre Poolburn Tunnel before arriving in the village of Lauder. In the late afternoon, we drive to St Bathans to explore the surreal Blue Lake, a relic of the 1800s gold rush. End the day with some friendly banter or a game of pool at the Lauder pub before enjoying a well-deserved dinner.

Today, we complete the Otago Central Rail Trail and move on to the gorge section of the spectacular Lake Dunstan Trail. After a short bus detour to the historic Ophir township for panoramic views of the region, we continue cycling to Clyde. This charming town, once a bustling hub during the gold rush, now thrives as a growing wine region.

Following lunch, we cross the Clutha River and cycle through the breathtaking Cromwell Gorge. Here, you’ll ride along sheer rockfaces and over lake inlets on elevated platforms and bridges. We conclude this section at Cornish Point and travel by van through the scenic Gibbston Valley, renowned for its world-class vineyards. A visit to the iconic Kawarau Gorge Bungy Bridge adds a thrilling highlight before arriving in Queenstown. Known as the world’s adrenaline capital, Queenstown is surrounded by stunning mountains and the serene shores of Lake Wakatipu, making it the perfect spot to unwind for the next two nights.

Cycle Distance: Lauder to Clyde – 45 km | Clyde to Cornish Point (Lake Dunstan Trail) – 25 km

Enjoy a full day of leisure in Queenstown, with plenty of options to make the most of your stay. You may choose an unforgettable excursion to Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound (own expense), starting early with a scenic bus ride to either Manapouri or Milford. These tours include a stunning cruise through Fiordland, and you also have the option to return from Milford Sound by helicopter or small plane for a spectacular aerial view.

For those staying in Queenstown, the day is yours to relax or seek adventure. Explore the vibrant town’s galleries, cafes, and restaurants, or try one of the many adrenaline-pumping activities like bungy jumping, skydiving, or jet boating. Whether you’re seeking thrills or tranquillity, Queenstown has something for everyone.

We start the day with a scenic ride along the Queenstown Trails, following the lake shore and Kawarau River to the iconic bungy bridge. After visiting the historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown, we take a scenic drive through the Kawarau Gorge, where you’ll catch views of old gold diggings and miners’ huts. From there, we journey through the Pisa Range, arriving at the vibrant lakeside town of Wanaka.

In the afternoon, we embark on a second ride, cycling from the alpine beauty of Lake Hawea to Albert Town, then along the Clutha River to Wanaka. Late in the day, you’ll have free time to explore Wanaka’s lively town centre before regrouping for an evening meal.

Cycle Distance: Queenstown Trails – Up to 27 km | Lake Hawea to Wanaka – 25 km

Meals: Breakfast (B), Dinner (D)

Our journey today takes us along the edges of Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka, with the dramatic peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park in the background. We ascend the Haast Pass, entering the rugged west coast of the South Island, a region known for its glaciers and untamed coastline. The road winds between lush rainforest, towering mountains, and the wild ocean, offering breathtaking views.

This is primarily a travel day (around six hours), but we make several stops to enjoy short walks to waterfalls and scenic lookouts. By late afternoon, we arrive in the small township of Fox Glacier, home to one of only three temperate glaciers in the world. You’ll have time for a short walk to admire the area’s natural beauty before relaxing over dinner.

We begin the day with a sunrise walk around the stunning Lake Matheson, known for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and surrounding peaks—perfect for photographers. Alternatively, you can opt for a scenic flight over Aoraki/Mt Cook and the glaciers (own expense), weather permitting. After breakfast, we head north to the historic gold mining town of Ross, where we begin the final leg of our cycling adventure on the West Coast Wilderness Trail.

The trail takes us through temperate rainforest, with a stop at the Treetop Walkway for a unique experience among towering forest giants. Continuing along old logging tramways and scenic bush tracks, we reach the charming coastal town of Hokitika. Renowned for its pounamu (greenstone) and vibrant arts scene, Hokitika is also famous for its dramatic sunsets. You’ll have time to explore this delightful town before settling in for the night.

Today’s ride takes us deeper into the West Coast Wilderness Trail, covering a rewarding 70 kilometres. We depart from Hokitika and join the historic Kaniere water race, cycling along its scenic path to the tranquil shores of Lake Kaniere, framed by the Southern Alps. After a short climb through rural roads, we reach Milltown for a coffee break, once a thriving sawmilling hub.

The trail challenges us with a kilometre of switchback climbing, leading to a highpoint with stunning views. From there, it’s mostly downhill as we follow water races, bush tracks, and reservoir roads, enjoying breathtaking scenery on the way to the settlement of Kumara. We check into a beautiful historic hotel and gather for our final evening meal to celebrate our cycling achievements and newfound friendships.

On the final day of our tour, we complete the West Coast Wilderness Trail, cycling from Kumara to Greymouth along scenic riverside and coastal pathways. Highlights include crossing an old road and rail bridge before reaching Greymouth’s town centre, where our cycling journey officially concludes.

After a cafe lunch, you’ll have time to explore the town or optionally visit Monteith’s Brewery for a celebratory drink. We then embark on a spectacular drive across the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, arriving in Christchurch by early evening. You’ll be dropped off in the city centre, marking the end of this unforgettable adventure.