8 Day Great West Coast Guided Cycling Tour

The journey begins in central Christchurch at Cathedral Junction at 7:15 AM, where you’ll meet your guide before heading to the train station for the 8:15 AM TranzAlpine departure. Enjoy a breathtaking ride across the Southern Alps, passing through the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge and Arthur’s Pass National Park before arriving at Moana on Lake Brunner around midday. Lunch is served on the train before we set off on our bikes, following a winding route through the Arnold Valley to Stillwater.

The ride continues along the Grey River, leading to the coastal town of Greymouth before heading north to Punakaiki, a route known for its dramatic rock formations, lush rainforest, and wild coastline. Upon arrival, there’s time for a short walk to the Pancake Rocks, where layered limestone formations, blowholes, and surge pools create a mesmerising landscape. The day concludes with a group dinner and a relaxing evening at our accommodation.

The morning begins with a southward transfer, stopping in Hokitika, a historic gold-mining town famous for its Pounamu (greenstone) craftsmanship, a treasured Māori taonga (cultural treasure) found only in the South Island. As we continue, the landscape shifts from rural countryside to the towering podocarp rainforests that signal our arrival in glacier country.

The cycling portion starts late morning at the Waitaha River, weaving through lush native forests and alongside mountain views, with multiple river crossings along the way. Passing through the remote settlements of Harihari and Whataroa, known for their historic aviation and wildlife significance, we push on to Franz Josef Glacier township, where we settle in for the next two nights.

A well-earned rest day offers the chance to explore Franz Josef Glacier at your own pace. With no scheduled riding, the day is yours to enjoy a range of activities, from soaking in hot pools to short scenic walks through lush rainforest. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, ice climbing and sea kayaking at Okarito Lagoon, home to the rare kōtuku (white heron), are great options.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a scenic flight over the glacier in a fixed-wing plane or a helicopter landing on the snowfields high above the village. Your guides will be on hand to help arrange activities, though transport and guiding services are not available today. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

The morning is flexible, allowing time for any unfinished adventures from the previous day. If weather conditions were unfavourable, there’s another chance to take a scenic flight over the glacier or enjoy a sea-kayaking excursion at Okarito Lagoon before setting off in the afternoon.

The ride to Fox Glacier is short but challenging, with three strenuous climbs, each followed by an exhilarating descent. The final stretch leads straight into the village’s cafes and bars, offering a well-earned break. In the evening, a scenic walk around Lake Matheson provides the perfect end to the day, with the chance to witness its famous mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman at sunset.

Back on the road after a couple of lighter days, the journey continues along flat coastal stretches before reaching Bruce Bay, where the rugged shoreline meets the rainforest. From here, the ride turns inland, passing the serene waters of Lake Moeraki before emerging at the spectacular Knights Point coastline.

The final challenge of the day is crossing New Zealand’s longest one-lane bridge, the Haast River Bridge, spanning 737 metres (2,418 feet). This marks the gateway to Haast township, where we settle in for our final night on the West Coast. For those seeking a shorter ride, an option to finish at Lake Paringa is available.

The climb toward Haast Pass is a true cycling highlight, with the road gradually rising for 50km alongside the Landsborough River and Clark Valley. Towering waterfalls and dense rainforest surround the route before transitioning into beech forest as we gain elevation. A final challenging ascent leads to the summit at 678m, marking the highest point of the day.

From the top, the reward is a thrilling 20km descent into the peaceful township of Makarora, where we settle in for the night. Those looking for more adventure can take an optional jet-boat ride into Mount Aspiring National Park or enjoy a short nature walk near our accommodation.

A striking shift in scenery unfolds as we leave the lush forests behind and enter the dry, arid landscapes of Otago. The route follows the shores of stunning glacial lakes, rolling gently through the headwaters of the Otago valleys before a final climb along Lake Wanaka’s edge.

By afternoon, we arrive in the vibrant resort town of Wanaka, where there’s time to explore the shops, relax by the lake, or simply soak in the alpine atmosphere. The evening brings a celebratory group dinner, marking the end of an unforgettable week of cycling.

The final ride of the journey begins along Lake Wanaka’s scenic waterfront, heading west toward the idyllic Glendhu Bay, a favourite route among locals for its breathtaking lake and mountain views. After returning to Wanaka, the ride continues across the historic Luggate Red Bridge, finishing at Māori Point Vineyard, where a platter lunch and wine tasting await.

From the vineyard, a 90-minute transfer takes us into Queenstown, passing the shores of Lake Dunstan and through the stunning Kawarau Gorge. Along the way, there’s a chance to visit the original bungy jump site at Kawarau Bridge before arriving in Queenstown, a lively hub for adventure, shopping, and relaxation.