Ride Description:

Note: The correct phone number for the Tour Leader, Rosanne Coumbis, is +61 434 142 077 (Australia). We found out that our website tour entry form couldn’t handle international phone numbers.

Ride Fee: NZ$13,950 (or about $11,225 CAD on October 16, 2025)

This spectacular South Island cycling adventure combines some of New Zealand’s most iconic trails with breathtaking scenery, rich history, and authentic Kiwi hospitality. Over three weeks, you’ll ride a variety of trails — from easy riverside paths and alpine passes to dramatic gorge rides and coastal boardwalks — all carefully chosen for their beauty and accessibility.

The journey takes us through Mackenzie Country, with its turquoise lakes and views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, across the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, and into the wine country of Central Otago. We’ll explore historic gold towns, pedal past orchards and vineyards, and experience engineering marvels like the Lake Dunstan Trail’s “floating” boardwalk.

Further west, the West Coast delivers rainforest, glaciers, wild beaches, and the famous Pancake Rocks, before the route heads north through sunny Tasman Bay. The final stretch of the journey brings us along the Pacific coastline to Kaikōura, inland to Hanmer Springs, and back to Christchurch.

Along the way, there are opportunities for wildlife encounters, stargazing, vineyard tastings, hot pools, a jet boat ride, and even a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. With a support vehicle always nearby, all rides are achievable, and non-riding options are available each day.

Expect a mix, crystal-clear lakes, lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and friendly towns and people — the very best of New Zealand’s landscapes, people, and culture, experienced from the unique perspective of a bike.

 

 

 

Accommodation Reservations:

We stay in modern 3to 4-star hotels or motels.

Accommodation in New Zealand is of an exceptional standard, comparable with hotels and motels in most Western countries. They are clean and tidy, with modern facilities throughout.

Rooms are double/twin with ensuite bathrooms. Most include tea- and coffee-making facilities.

The tours are priced on a twin share basis (2 people to a room). Once accepted on the tour you will need to advise if you prefer a queen room (one queen bed) or a twin room (2 separate beds).  Because of a shortage of accommodation in some places there is no single supplement option on this Tour.

Riding Conditions:

All bike riding is optional. Our support vehicle is with us every step of the way, so if you need a break you can simply hop aboard.

For this tour, you need an above-average level of fitness, with the ability to ride 60–70 km on formed tracks and some quiet roads, which may include a few moderate to steep inclines.

For most of the tour, we ride on well-formed cycling trails. These are mostly unsealed but in excellent condition, with surfaces mainly gravel and some sections on farm tracks. None of the rides are considered technical.

There is very little riding on roads, as we have tried to avoid traffic wherever possible.

Route finding is simple. In nearly all cases there is only one way to go — just follow the trail — so navigation is easy.

You will not be expected to ride in one group. Our  guide/driver will start us off each day, then drive ahead to meet us  at breaks such as morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. Our  guide will sometimes ride with us or drive forward and ride back to meet us.

February is the height of summer in the South Island of New Zealand and brings some of the best conditions for cycling. Days are generally warm, often hot in inland basins, and there is plenty of sunshine with relatively low rainfall compared to other times of the year. The stable weather makes this an excellent month for long-distance riding, with good trail surfaces and extended daylight hours.

By mid-March the season begins to shift into autumn. The days remain pleasantly warm, with average highs around 22 °C, but nights become cooler, dropping to around 9 °C in many areas. Rain is still infrequent, with only a handful of wet days expected across the month, so conditions for cycling remain favourable.

Overall, February and March are the best months to cycle the South Island, offering warm and stable weather, long days, and excellent opportunities to enjoy both alpine and coastal landscapes.

Tour Operator – Tuatara Tours

Born from a passion for the Kiwi Outdoors and a desire to share it with others, Tuatara Tours has been delivering unforgettable walking and cycling adventures across New Zealand and the world for over 23 years.

They are a small, dedicated team with four permanent office staff, two of whom have been employed for over 20 years.  Each season, from October to April, 18 to 20 experienced guides bring energy, expertise and local knowledge to every journey.

Tuatara Tours have a fleet of 15 seat Mercedes Sprinter vans with custom-built bike trailers, a fleet of quality bikes and a full-time bike mechanic.

Tuatara Tours operate around 150 guided tours annually, with cycling making up 75% of the tours.  The main focus is on the South Island of New Zealand but they also lead iconic walks on the North Island.   Travellers are typically 55 years and older, adventurous at heart and come from all over the world.

Tuatara Tours are actively involved in Tuatara Conservation and have formally adopted “BP” a male juvenile tuatara who resides at Orana Park in Christchurch and is part of the conservation programme to ensure the safe future of these amazing reptiles.

Fee Includes:

Accommodation

• 23 nights in 3- to 4-star hotels or motels, based on two persons to a room.

Meals

• All meals stated in the itinerary are included in the cost of your tour in New Zealand.
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided. Lunches are generally packed or takeaway style. (Dinner on Day 5 is the only exception)
• Dinner is the highlight of each evening and is of excellent restaurant quality.
• Special diets of all /(most) kinds are catered for.

Transport

• All transport is provided throughout the tour, from our arrival at Christchurch International Airport to our departure from the same airport.
• On arrival in Christchurch, we will be met by our guide.
• Throughout the tour we will travel in a well-appointed, modern Mercedes vehicle with very comfortable seating.

Host/Guide

• We will be accompanied by a New Zealand guide/driver (host).
• Tuatara Tour guides are very well-versed and qualified to share insights on all things Kiwi.

Fee Does Not Include:

• Flights to and from Christchurch, New Zealand
• Bike hire
• Alcoholic drinks
• Personal expenses
• Medical and/or travel insurance
• Gratuities (tipping is not expected in New Zealand but is always gratefully received; it is at your discretion whether to reward for excellent service)
• Leader’s tour fee (waived)
• Stripe fee (3%) for tour Registration Fee paid through the CCCTS website

Bike Hire

You can choose from several types of bikes for your tour.  Each bike will be fitted to your stature and requirements.

All bikes are proven and reliable.   Spare bikes are carried on every trip in case of a major breakdown.

More details about bike types will be forwarded to riders once they have been confirmed on the tour.

Bikes

• Carbon fibre E-bike – Hardtail step-through and MTB styles available / 700Ah batteries
• Carbon fibre E-bike – Full suspension MTB style only / 700Ah batteries
• Hardtail mountain bikes
• Full suspension trail bikes – MTB style

Bike Hire Rates

• From NZ$82 per day – Hardtail E-bike
• From NZ$45 per day – Hardtail mountain bike

All Bikes Come With

Helmets, front and rear lights, disc brakes, rear carrier, carrier bag with side panniers, comfort seat, bike computer, spare tyres, levers and small pump.

Clothing and Luggage

A comprehensive list of gear will be provided upon completion of the booking process.

Itinerary:

New Zealand Kiwi Bird

Kia ora and welcome!

Itinerary

Saturday, February  13, 2027 –  You will be picked up on the day prior to the tour by your guide at Christchurch International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Christchurch.

That evening, enjoy a welcoming dinner.

Day 1:   Sunday, February 14, 2027 – Christchurch to Twizel

We leave Christchurch by vehicle at around 8:30–9:00 am and head into the wide-open spaces of Mackenzie Country, famous for its night skies and bright blue alpine lakes.

Today’s ride starts in Tekapo, following the canals and then hugging the edge of stunning Lake Pukaki with jaw-dropping views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. From there, we continue along the lakeshore to the information centre before an easy final stretch across open tussock country to Twizel — once a hydro town, now a hotspot for water and snow sports.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 66.3 km  Elevation: Rise +383 m / -606 m

Paved        27.8 km    42%

Unpaved  38.5 km     58%

 

Day 2: Monday, February 15, 2027   –  Twizel to Mt Cook to Lake Ohau

The day starts with a drive to Mt Cook for a morning visit to the village and views of the stunning mountain once the playground of Sir Edmund Hillary, the first to climb Mt Everest.  We then return to Twizel and ride a pretty country road to Loch Cameron at the 6 km mark — a great place for a swim if time and temperature allow. Just ahead, across the canal bridge, an easy straight section leads to the edge of Lake Ohau.

The Ben Ohau Range dominates the skyline as you follow the lakeshore across Ohau Weir and onward toward Lake Ohau Village and its lodge — perfectly positioned for post-ride refreshments. After dinner, step outside: this is one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 45km – more if desired  Elevation: Rise  +290 m / -209 m

Paved        33.7 km    75%

Unpaved  11.3 km     25%

 

Day 3: Tuesday, February 16, 2027    –  Lake Ohau to Omarama

A gentle 6 km warm-up takes us to Freehold Creek. The next section is the toughest of the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, with a 300 m climb spread over 5 km. At the top — Tarnbrae High Point — you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views from 900 m above sea level.

A steep, winding descent through golden meadows follows, leading to rural Quailburn Road, passing a historic woolshed and the turnoff to the geological wonders of the Clay Cliffs (14 km return). From the SH8 junction, it’s just a short ride to Omarama, known for its soothing outdoor hot tubs.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 43 km – more if desired   Elevation: Rise +533 m / -657 m

Paved        8 km      19%

Unpaved  34.8km   81%

 

Day 4: Wednesday, February 17, 2027   –    Omarama to Otematata

It’s a whole new world after Omarama. Crossing Chain Hills, we’re welcomed into the Waitaki Valley with its hydro lakes and country towns.

From Omarama, the trail heads east down the Waitaki Valley to the top of Chain Hills (5 km), then descends beside SH83 and along Lake Benmore to Pumpkin Point (10 km). It continues to Sailors Cutting Scenic Reserve (13 km) — a favourite for boating, fishing, and camping.

A spectacular new section of off-road trail follows the Ahuriri arm of the lake to Benmore Dam (29 km). Take extra care here, especially in windy conditions, but enjoy the picnic spots along the way. From the dam car park, we follow the trail another 6 km to Otematata, before driving back to Omarama for a rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 53 km – Elevation: Rise +464 m / -619 m

Paved        24.7km      47%

Unpaved  28.3km   53%

Day 5: Thursday February 18, 2027  –  Omarama to Arrowtown

The 145 km drive from Omarama to Arrowtown takes about 3.5 hours and offers varied landscapes, turquoise lakes, and historic charm.

We climb into the Lindis Pass, with its cinematic tussock-covered hills, before descending into the Upper Clutha Valley and on to Lake Dunstan near Tarras. Cromwell follows, with its historic old town, vineyards, and fruit stalls.

The final leg passes through Kawarau Gorge before arriving in Arrowtown. The afternoon is free to explore this charming gold rush village.

• More than 20 bars, cafés & restaurants
• A dozen artists and galleries
• Over 60 historic buildings

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Biking Today: None

Day 6: Friday, February 19, 2027   –   Arrowtown to Cromwell

Gold rush-era Arrowtown is the starting point for this delightful ride, which features a mix of bridges — including the purpose-built, 80 m Edgar Suspension Bridge — as well as country lanes and old byways. The trail meanders along the Arrow River, sometimes tumbling, sometimes tranquil, before spilling out into the Kawarau Gorge.

The journey continues to the historic Kawarau Bridge — the world’s original bungy jump site — where adventurous souls can swap their helmet for a harness. From here, the trail stretches 9 km to Kinross Cottages, before joining the awe-inspiring new section through Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today 60.3km – Elevation: Rise +497 m / -696 m

Paved        26.4 km    44%

Unpaved  33.9 km     56%

Day 7: Saturday, February 20, 2027   –   Cromwell to Lake Roxburgh

We drive a short distance to the start of the spectacular Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Trail. With its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views, this ride is pure magic.

The day begins with a 10 km ride through the gorge, followed by a scenic jet boat trip from Doctors Point to Shingle Creek (The boat trip is dependent on the boating operation still being available at the time of the tour).

Elevation: Rise +78 m/Fall -77 m

Back on the bikes, we ride another 10 km to the Roxburgh Dam, then continue to Millers Flat, passing orchards and historic gold mining relics.

Elevation: Rise +153 m/Fall 199 m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 47 km  – there is an option of riding another 25km if desired

Day 8:   Sunday, February 21, 2027   –  Lake Roxburgh to Queenstown

After breakfast, we head to Clyde to tackle the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail. This thrilling ride follows cliffside paths carved from solid rock, skims beneath the Cairnmuir Terraces, and includes the famous “floating” boardwalk.

The ride flattens out near Cromwell, where we pass vineyards and olive groves before finishing at Smiths Way. We then drive back to Arrowtown for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 56.4 km- Rise +615 m / -577 m

Paved        4.6 km    8%

Unpaved  51.8 km     92%

Day 9: Monday, February 22, 2027   –   Queenstown to Te Anau

A short drive takes us to Kingston at the southern end of Lake Wakatipu. From here, we ride through open farmland, past Fairlight Station (once the final stop of the Kingston Flyer), then continue through Garston, Athol, and Five Rivers before reaching Lumsden.

The trail then follows the Oreti River valley to Mossburn, the “Deer Capital of New Zealand.” We finish the day with a transfer to Te Anau, our base for the next two nights.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: Up to 103.6 km  Rise +602 m / -483 m

Paved        4.1 km    4%

Unpaved  99.7 km     96%

Day 10: Tuesday, February 23, 2027  – Te Anau

Te Anau sits beside Fiordland National Park and is the gateway to Milford Sound. Options today include:

• A scenic bike ride to Manapouri, visiting the Te Anau Wildlife Park along the way.
• A side trip (extra cost) to the Glowworm Caves across Lake Te Anau.
• An excursion to world-famous Milford Sound (extra cost).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 63 km  Rise +254 m / -269 m  (one way)

Paved        15.4 km    24%

Unpaved  47.6 km     76%

Day 11: Wednesday February 24, 2027   –   Te Anau to Queenstown / Arrowtown

We drive to Mavora Lakes, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area and a filming location for The Lord of the Rings.

The ride passes Mt Nicholas Station, a vast merino sheep farm, before continuing along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. From here, we take the TSS Earnslaw back to Queenstown.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 30–50 km   Rise +574 m / -881 m

Unpaved 50.5 km     100%

Day 12: Thursday, February 25, 2027   –   Queenstown to Wānaka

Today’s ride begins along the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakatipu, then follows the Shotover River to Lake Hayes for a scenic loop. From here we transfer to Lake Hāwea and ride the Hāwea River Trail, linking up with the Newcastle and Upper Clutha tracks to Albert Town. The day finishes with the Outlet Track beside the Clutha River, ending on the shores of Lake Wānaka.

Biking: 33km Rise · +369 m / -276 m

Paved        12.2 km    37%

Unpaved  20.6 km     63%

Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 34 km   Rise 170 m / -240 m

Paved        7.8 km    23%

Unpaved  26.3 km     77%

Biking Total Today : 67 km

Day 13: Friday, February 26, 2027   –   Wānaka to Fox Glacier

We drive 260 km through Mount Aspiring National Park, Haast Pass, and along the West Coast. Highlights include the Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls, and Knights Point Lookout. The final stretch winds through rainforest to Fox Glacier. If time allows, we may ride up to 20 km on local trails.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: None (possible optional 20 km)

Day 14: Saturday, February 27, 2027   –   Fox Glacier to Hokitika

We start with a ride to Lake Matheson, famous for mirror-like reflections of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. A 42 km return ride to Gillespies Beach follows, before continuing to Franz Josef Glacier for a gentle rainforest cycle to the glacier car park.

If time permits, we’ll visit Ōkārito, a tranquil coastal village. We then transfer to Hokitika for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 42 km Rise 145 m / -300 m – one way- more km can be added if desired

Day 15: Sunday, February 28, 2027   –   Hokitika to Punakaiki

Today’s ride begins in Milltown and winds through native bush, historic gold towns, and across dams and reservoirs before descending to Kumara. From there, the trail follows the Kumara Tramline and Grey River into Greymouth, finishing with Tasman Sea views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 68 km – Rise +625 m / -827 m- more km can be added here if desired

Paved        13.5  km    18%

Unpaved  62.7 km     82%

Day 16: Monday, March 1, 2027   –   Punakaiki to Westport

We start with a visit to the Pancake Rocks and blowholes, followed by the Truman Track coastal walk.  The ride begins in Charleston, heading north through coastal forest, wetlands, and alongside wild beaches. Boardwalks and bridges lead to sweeping views of the Tasman Sea before the trail finishes along the Buller River into Westport.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 41.8 km- Rise +323 m / -342 m-  more km can be added if desired

Paved        4.5 km    11%

Unpaved  37.3 km     89%

Day 17: Tuesday, March 2, 2027   –   Westport to Motueka

We drive through the Buller Gorge to Murchison before cycling from Tapawera up to Baton Saddle and across the Baton River Swing Bridge. From there, the trail passes quirky stops like Lublow’s Leap and follows the Motueka River to Riwaka.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 65.5 km- Rise +552 m / -697 m  more km can be added here if desired

Paved        39.8 km    61%

Unpaved  25.7 km     39%

Day 18: Wednesday, March 3, 2027   –   Motueka to Nelson

The trail climbs gently along Tasman View Road, passing orchards and vineyards to Tasman village. After a steep descent, we reach Māpua and take the short ferry to Rabbit Island.

From here, we ride boardwalks and coastal paths along the Waimea Inlet before finishing in Richmond.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 51.6 km – Rise +314 m / -318 m

Paved        22.3 km    43%

Unpaved  29.3 km     56%

Day 19: Thursday, March 4, 2027   –  Nelson to Kaikōura

We drive 250 km via Blenheim and the Marlborough wine region, then follow SH1 along the Pacific coast to Kaikōura.

After lunch, we ride the Kaikōura Cycle Trail (48 km), circling the plains on quiet roads and single track through bush and farmland, with constant views of Mt Fyffe and the Seaward Kaikōura Range.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 41.5 km –  Rise +365 m / -380 m

Paved        16.7 km    40%

Unpaved  24.7 km     60%

Day 20: Friday,  March 5, 2027   – Kaikōura

Today is a rest day so you can put your feet up and just relax.

Or – you could go whale watching or undertake a myriad of other excursions available in this tourist hotspot – Kaikoura.   At time of booking we can talk about the options available to you.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: Nil

Day 21: Saturday, March 6, 2027   –  Kaikōura to Hanmer Springs

We head inland on the Kaikōura Inland Road, cycling through farmland, small villages, and forested hills before descending into the Waiau Basin. From Waiau, we transfer to Hanmer Springs to relax in the famous hot pools.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 86.4 km Rise  +1,272 m / -1,158 m

Paved        77.8 km    90%

Unpaved  8.6 km     10%

Day 22: Sunday,  March 7, 2027   –   Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

Our final ride begins in Waikari and heads over rolling country into the Waipara Gorge. There is 19.5 km of gravel riding with small climbs before descending into the vineyards of Waipara wine country. After a tasting, we return to Christchurch.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking Today: 45.5 km- +537 m / -692 m – more km can be added if desired

Paved        27.1 km    60%

Unpaved  18.4 km     40%

Day 23:  Monday, March 8, 2027  Departure

The morning after your tour, you will be transferred directly to Christchurch International Airport for your return flight home.

If you plan to extend your stay in New Zealand, please let us know at the time of booking.

Registration and Participant Selection:

Registration and Participant Selection:

Registration will be on the CCCTS website on the date shown. A computerized lottery system and waitlist will be utilized in the event that the ride is over-subscribed. A $100 (CAD) payment is required at the time of registration. The lottery signup will run for 7 days, after which the Ride Leader will review the results.

 

The selection process will consider the following criteria in evaluating candidates:

• fitness and riding ability and experience required for the tour,
• a history of demonstrating safe riding practices,
• acceptable social behavior.

 

• The leader may interview riders or others who know them to verify their suitability for the tour.

 

• The leader has the option to prioritize 30% of the tour applicants up to a maximum of 6 people.

 

• The leader will notify registrants of their selection status. If the ride is not filled to capacity, registration will continue until the closing date shown.
• Tour member selection is done primarily by lottery results but the leader will have the final decision on who is accepted or not for the tour.

 

Payment Terms

Ride Fee: NZ$13,950

All payments should be made in New Zealand Dollars –unfortunately, other currencies cannot be accepted.  Payments can be made through Wise, Visa or Mastercard.

Once you are confirmed as a successful applicant by CCCTS a NZ$3,000 deposit is required within a month after being selected.  You will be invoiced for this deposit.

You will be invoiced for the second payment of $5,000 on or around 15 May, 2026 with the final balance of $5,950 on or around 1 October, 2026. 

How to pay

1. Credit Card over the phone on our Free phone number NZ 0800 377 378 or Australia 1800 044 633 or International 0064 3 962 3280.

 Wise Card, Visa and Mastercard are accepted. No credit card fees apply.

2. You can also make a payment on our secure on-line booking form on our website, tuataratours.co.nz, go to any page on the site and click the Make a Payment button in the footer and follow the instructions. You may also use your Wise Card, Visa and Mastercard here.

We do not charge any Credit Card fees if you use Wise, Visa or Mastercard.

 

Cancellations and Refunds

In the event of cancellation – The CCCTS $100 CAD registration fee is non-refundable once you have accepted a spot on the tour.

Cancellations must be made in writing to the CCCTS Tour Leader and to Tuatara Tours hamish@tuataratours.co.nz

The following charges will apply:

• 91+ days prior to departure – no fee
• 90-60 days prior to departure – Deposit Non refundable
• 59-30 days prior to departure – 30% of total package cost applies. 29-0 days prior to departure – 100% of total package cost applies
• After tour commencement – no refund available.

These cancellation fees are not negotiable, therefore we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance as soon as you book the tour to cover you in the case that something unexpected happens and you cannot proceed with your tour.

 

Communicable Illness Information:

• The CCCTS Communicable Illness Policy takes into consideration regulations and recommendations from Public Health Authority of Canada, BC Centre of Disease Control, and Public Health Ontario. In the case of illness while on tour, it is expected that all participants will follow the procedures outlined in this policy. Please refer to https://cccts.org/club-document/communicable-illness/ for details on the club’s Communicable Illness Policy.

 

• CCCTS strongly encourages all participants to be up-to-date on their vaccinations for COVID and all other communicable diseases.

 

•  Everyone should bring 3 COVID test kits with them on the tour and take responsibility for self-testing if they feel ill.