West Coast Gold Rush Self Guided Cycle Tour

The journey begins in Hokitika, the heart of the West Coast Wilderness Trail, easily accessible by a short flight or a three-hour drive from Christchurch. After meeting at the Hokitika depot, you’ll receive a bike and trip briefing before being transferred to the Treetop Walkway. For those wanting a longer ride, there’s an option to cycle to and from the Walkway, extending the day’s distance to 30km.

At the Treetop Walkway, enjoy a unique perspective of the native forest as you ride among towering trees, listen to birdsong, and take in panoramic views of Lake Mahinapua. Tonight’s accommodation is either at Scenic Waterways(5km south of Hokitika) or in Hokitika township, depending on your chosen package and availability.

Begin the day by picking up lunch from a local café or supermarket before setting off on the longest ride of the trip. Leaving Hokitika, the trail follows a riverside path through the suburbs before weaving into stunning single-track sections through native bush. The route then reaches the shores of Lake Kaniere, offering a peaceful ride before the gentle zigzags up through Milltown.

A thrilling descent into the Arahua Valley leads to the Macpherson Swing Bridge, where breathtaking views of the creek below await. The Southern Alps come into view today, so be sure to pause for photos. The journey continues along a smooth boardwalk and bush trail beside the Kawhaka Canal, passing through the historic goldfield sites of Stafford and Goldsborough, before arriving in Kumara. Tonight’s stay is in accommodation that celebrates the town’s 1870s gold mining boom, a nod to New Zealand’s last major gold rush.

The final stretch of the journey offers spectacular views of the Taramakau River before leading to the Tasman Sea, where the trail winds past sand dunes and coastal lagoons. A scenic ride along the Grey River brings you into Greymouth, marking the end of the adventure. Celebrate with an optional lunch at Monteith’s Brewery, a fitting way to toast the ride before returning your hire bike at the nearby depot.

For those continuing their journey, the TranzAlpine™ train provides a stunning way to return to Christchurch. Departing Greymouth at 2:05 PM, this scenic rail journey crosses the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains, offering a relaxing and memorable conclusion to the trip. Let the Cycle Journeys reservations team know if you’d like to check availability and include train tickets in your booking.