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New Zealand South Island Scenic Trails Bike Tour

Designed for biking enthusiasts, this adventure explores the very best of the South Island's bike trails, such as the Alps 2 Ocean, Central Otago Rail Trail, and Queenstown Cycle trail, with a few iconic hikes including the Routeburn and Milford Tracks thrown in for good measure.

Start - End: Christchurch - Christchurch

Total trip: 14 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 3

from NZD 12,799/pp including taxes and fees

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Combine the Very Best of New Zealand's Cycling and Hiking Trails on our New Zealand South Island Scenic Trails Bike Tour.

You'll get an up-close experience of the very best of New Zealand's biking and hiking trails on this epic adventure. You may recognize the Alps 2 Ocean, Central Otago Rail Trail, and the Queenstown Cycle Trail, known for their variety of landscapes and breathtaking lookout spots. However, it's the hidden gems like the West Coast Wilderness Trail and Hawea River Track that will leave a lasting impression on you.

Of course, not every landscape is explorable by bike, so we've included hikes on the Routeburn Track and in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. There is also a cruise included on world-renowned Milford Sound. This trip will give you an all-encompassing adventure of New Zealand's finest vistas. Plus, with fully vehicle-supported rides, you'll be able to challenge yourself as much or as little as you'd like on our New Zealand South Island Scenic Trails Bike Tour.

If you're looking for more biking adventures, such as in Vietnam, USA, Netherlands, we recommend exploring our sister brand, Discovery Bicycle Tours.

IMPORTANT: The bikes available for ourNew Zealand South Island Scenic Trails Bike Tourare Specialized Roll Sport Bikes. If you’re looking for a trip with E-Bike options available, check out our New Zealand Alps-to-Ocean Adventure Bike Tour.

Central Otago

Simply sit back, pedal, and enjoy the views! We are there to support you along the way.

Southern Alps

Your guides are experts at whipping up snacks and gourmet meals in the middle of nowhere.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Cycle iconic bike trails such as the 'Alps to Ocean' as well as lesser-known tracks

Trip Highlights

Biking

West Coast Wilderness Trail

Bike through lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and serene lakes on the wild West Coast.

Biking

Hawea River track

Relish the views of the Southern Alps and beech forests as you cycle along the sparkling Hawea River.

Biking

Queenstown Cycle Trail

Discover the world-class vineyards of Gibbston Valley, or cycle along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and Lake Hayes to quaint Arrowtown.

Biking

Mavora Lakes

The remote beauty and tranquility of the Mavora Lakes is astounding. Enjoy the unique experience of biking in the peace and quiet far from the crowds.

Biking

Central Otago Rail Trail

A charming ride through historic gold-mining towns, wide-open valleys, farmland, and old railway bridges.

Biking

Alps To Ocean Trail

Enjoy this iconic bike ride from New Zealand’s highest peak of Aoraki Mt Cook, to the mighty Pacific Ocean.

Hiking

Franz Josef Glacier

Nestled beside temperate rainforest, Franz Josef glacier is one of the steepest and fastest moving in New Zealand.

Hiking

Routeburn Track

You’ll hike through stunning alpine meadows, cross crystal-clear waters, and take in the sweeping views of surrounding peaks and valleys.

Hiking

Milford Track

It feels like stepping into a postcard, with every turn revealing stunning views from the lush valleys to the stunning peaks and waterfalls.

Hiking

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

New Zealand’s tallest peak of Aoraki Mt Cook stands proudly above glaciers, lakes, and surrounding trails.

Hiking

Castle Hill

Hike amidst the limestone boulders and rolling hills of Castle Hill, fascinating place to roam.

Plus...

Explore Queenstown

Perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, is surrounded by breathtaking views everywhere you look. You'll love your time in the 'Adventure Capital of the World'!

Plus...

Milford Sound Cruise

Seeing the epic beauty of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and bottlenose dolphins is a realy 'pinch me' moment.

Day by day trip

Each day of this tour offers you a new adventure, exploring the world-class biking and hiking trails of New Zealand's South Island. With our local guides taking you to their favorite spots, you'll experience the real New Zealand from the best seat in the house - your bike saddle!

Click the map below to explore.

Day 1

Arrive, set up, bike McLeans Island

Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, is framed by the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps to the West and the Pacific Ocean and Banks Penisula to the East.

After fitting our bikes we’ll take a warm-up ride at McLeans Island. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll probably find jetlag is no big deal – for instance, it’s a 12 to 13-hour direct overnight flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, and there’s only a 3-hour time difference between New Zealand and US Pacific time. If you’re coming from further afield, you’ll appreciate the gentle start to your New Zealand adventure.
Accommodation: Merivale Manor, Rydges Latimer, or Scenic Hotel Cotswold, Christchurch
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 15 miles (24 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 537 feet (163 meters) ascent, 536 feet (163 meters) descent
Notes: Predominantly even terrain with occasional gentle slopes. No van support.

Day 2

Journey to the West Coast, bike West Coast Wilderness Trail

This morning we’ll head west to Kuru Tawhiti Conservation Area in the heart of the Southern Alps. We’ll take a gentle one-hour walk among the imposing limestone tors of Castle Hill, which were once a meeting place for moa hunters of the Ngai Tahu tribe. The Dalai Lama visited this area and described it as a ‘spiritual center of the universe’. Afterward, we’ll continue on to the West Coast via Arthur’s Pass, one of New Zealand’s impressive alpine passes - look out for the Otira Viaduct.

After lunch, we’ll take an afternoon ride on a section of the West Coast Wilderness trail from Greymouth to Taramakau and then it’s a short drive back down to Kumara. Once an old bustling gold mining town, Kumara is one of the many West Coast towns given a new lease of life by the opening of the West Coast Wilderness Trail cycleway In November 2013.

We’ll spend the night here, enjoying dinner at the local pub.
Accommodation: Theatre Royal Hotel, Kumara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 12 or 18.6 miles (19 or 30 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 607 feet (185 meters), 349 feet (106 meters) descent
Notes: Flat, smooth, level terrain. Vehicle support is available throughout today’s ride.

Day 3

Bike West Coast Wilderness Trail

We’ll start of our next ride along another section of the West Coast Wilderness Trail. This trail offers contrasting cycling along water races, tramways and railway lines and through dense, lush rainforest. Beginning in Kumara, passing by the Kapitea Reservoir, we’ll head inland towards the Great Southern Divide and the raging Arahura River.

We’ll find a nice spot for a picnic lunch before continuing along the trail back towards the Tasman Sea and Lake Kaniere. The bike ride today will get your heart pumping and your excitement levels rising, in anticipation of all the trails you’re soon to experience.

Later we’ll carry on down to Franz Josef, nestled in the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, where we’ll stay for the next couple of nights.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 10.1 miles or 30.6 miles (16 or 49 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,960 feet (597 meters), 1,771 feet (539 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is hilly, characterized by frequent and steeper inclines. Vehicle support is available at the 22-mile (36-kilometer) point in Milltown.

Day 4

Hike near Franz Josef Glacier

With some 140 glaciers making their way down from the Southern Alps, this area is fittingly known as glacier country. Few sights equal the spectacle of this giant frozen river (Franz Josef Glacier) imperceptibly grinding its way down through the temperate rainforest to just 820 feet (250 meters) above sea level. We’ll spend most of the day near Franz Josef Glacier hiking up through the forest to incredible views of the ice. Wet weather can inhibit these hikes, so we may opt to hike the Tatare tunnels instead.

After settling into our accommodation back in Franz Josef township, spend some time in the hot tub and enjoy dinner in town on your own.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Franz Josef Glacier Terminal Face: 3 miles (4.8 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 65 feet (20 meters) ascent, 65 feet (20 meters) descent

Alex Knob Hike: Up to 6 miles (9.5 kilometers), 5-6 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,640 feet (500 meters) ascent, 1,640 feet (500 meters) descent

Day 5

Hike Haast Pass and bike Hawea River Track

This morning, we’ll travel down the coast through lush forest, visiting historic Ship Creek to explore the Kahikatea forest, providing a glimpse back in time to what the West Coast may have looked like prior to human settlement. Continuing south, we’ll head inland across Haast Pass toward Wanaka, stopping along the way for a short track walk through kāmahi and silver beech forest to a viewing platform above the Haast River with views of the spectacular Thunder Creek Falls, 91 feet (28 meters) above on the other side.

After lunch, we’ll jump back on the bikes and ride the Hawea River Track, linking Lake Hawea township to Wanaka, via Albert Town. This is a nice, gentle ride with uninterrupted views of the clear Hawea River.
Accommodation: Edgewater Resort or Wanaka Hotel, Wanaka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 16.1 miles (26 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 466 feet (142 meters), 669 feet (204 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is hilly, characterized by frequent and steeper inclines. Vehicle support is available at several points along the ride. (2-2.5 hours)

Day 6

Bike Gibbston River and Queenstown Trails

From Wanaka, it’s a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to the Gibbston Valley, an area best known for producing worldclass grapes. You’ll be spoilt for vistas riding along the Gibbston River Trail - with the Kawarau River far below, impressive suspension bridges and iconic Central Otago landscapes. You’ll also pass through a rare pre-1900 fruit orchard and rock huts left over from the gold rush. Along the way, there are plenty of award-winning wineries to stop at and sample a drop if you’d like.

We’ll have lunch in Arrowtown before continuing along the trails to Queenstown, with incredible views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express and Suites, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Biking: 12, 24.7 or 29.9 miles (19, 39 or 48 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,759 feet (536 meters), 1,800 feet (305 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is hilly, characterized by frequent and steeper inclines. Vehicle support is available at several points along the ride. 2-4 hours.

Day 7

Free day in Queenstown

Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilization are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here including horse trekking, a gondola, fishing, winery tours, bungy jumping, jet boating and skydiving as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere at one of many local cafés.

Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express and Suites, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8

Cruise on the Earnslaw steam ship to Walter Peak, bike to Mavora Lakes

This morning, we’ll cross Lake Wakatipu on board the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station. Here, you’ll follow Mt. Nicholas farm road to the isolated Mavora Lakes. You’ll bike alongside the lake before heading gently up through the headwaters of the Von River, surrounded by the Livingston Mountains. This is a true wilderness cycling experience on a quiet back road, and after your time in Queenstown, you’ll appreciate the peaceful surroundings!

From Mavora Lakes, we’ll take a scenic drive through to Te Anau, our base for the next couple of nights.
Accommodation: Matai Lodge, Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cruise: 30 minutes

Biking: 32.7 miles (52 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,263 feet (689 meters), 1,235 feet (376 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is hilly, characterized by frequent and steeper inclines. This ride takes place along a remote backcountry road with no vehicle access.

Day 9

Hike Milford Track, Cruise Milford Sound

It’s worth the early start this morning as we set off for our largest and perhaps most spectacular national park, Fiordland. When we arrive, we’ll be greeted with jaw-dropping views of Mitre Peak and the surrounding jagged granite peaks – quite possibly the most picturesque mountain range in New Zealand – though we’ll let you be the judge of that!

We'll take a short boat ride across Milford Sound to hike from Sandfly Point to the Giant Gates waterfall, a spectacular section of the famed Milford Track. The forest here is lush and rich with mosses and ferns as we follow the Arthur River past Lake Ada. By hiking from the Milford Sound trailhead, you'll enjoy the majestic backdrop of the surrounding peaks.

Once we return to the Milford wharf, we’ll board a boat for a two-hour nature cruise to the head of this spectacular fiord. Later we'll head back to Te Anau enjoying the stunning native forest and mountain views along the way.
Accommodation: Matai Lodge, Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cruise: 2 hours

Hiking: 6 miles (10 kilometers), 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 985 feet (300 meters) ascent, 985 feet (300 meters) descent

Day 10

Bike the Otago Rail Trail from Lauder to Ranfurly

Today we’ll head east from Te Anau right into the heart of the Maniototo region in Central Otago. The trail here follows an old train line built in the early 1900s. The tracks were retired and removed in 1990 and now the Central Otago Rail Trail is one of the most iconic cycling trails in New Zealand. We’ll cross numerous bridges and viaducts, winding our way along the smooth track past Raggedy Range and Rough Ridge. We have a gradual climb through the Ida Valley, and once at the summit of the trail, it’s a slight downhill all the way into Ranfurly, a small town famous for its Art Deco architecture and warm and welcoming community.
Accommodation: Hawkdun Lodge, Ranfurly
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 12.7, 21.5 or 29.6 miles (20, 34 or 48 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,340 feet (408 meters), 1,020 feet (310 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is on rolling terrain characterized by periodic, gentle hills and declines. Vehicle support is available at several points along the ride.

Day 11

Bike Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

This morning we’ll journey to the East Coast, stopping for a break at Moeraki and visiting the famous Moeraki Boulders, before continuing up the Waitaki Valley where we’ll jump on our bikes to ride alongside Lake Aviemore. We’ll bike along to Benmore Hydro Dam where the trail winds its way around the Ahuriri arm of Lake Benmore with views over the Benmore Dam. Well hidden from the highway, we’ll be on a single track and finish up at Sailors Cutting.

Tonight we’ll stay at the remote and beautiful Lake Ohau Lodge. The lodge is tucked in beside an alpine lake, with incredible views stretching across to Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps – the ideal spot to rejuvenate the body and soak in the hot tub whilst gazing at the stars!
Accommodation: Lake Ohau Lodge, Ohau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 14.5, 24.7 or 32.7 miles (23, 40 or 52 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,030 feet (618 meters), 1,519 feet (463 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is hilly, characterized by frequent and steeper inclines. Vehicle support is available during the first 23 kilometers of the ride. Vehicle support is unavailable for the final 17 kilometers.

Day 12

Continue Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

Today is our last day on two wheels, so we’ll make it extra special with a ride that’ll knock your socks off! We’ll set off around Lake Ohau and then alongside the Ohau Canal to Twizel. From Twizel, the dramatic scenery steps up a notch with the shimmering cobalt-blue Lake Pukaki on the left, and Aoraki/Mt. Cook straight ahead. Along this section of the trail, you’ll also pass a range of native plants including Kowhai (with brilliant yellow flowers, popular with endemic Tui birds), flax and tussocks.

Tonight we’ll spend the night in the Mackenzie Country basin, with stunning views stretching across the Southern Alps. The area is known for the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, with light pollution strictly controlled, so it’s the ideal spot to stargaze!
Accommodation: Mt Cook Lodge and Motels, Mt Cook or Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel, Twizel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 23.6 or 35.8 miles (38 or 57 kilometers)
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,217 feet (370 meters), 1,244 feet (379 meters) descent
Notes: Today’s ride is characterized by predominantly flat terrain with occasional gentle slopes. Vehicle support is available at several points along the ride. (5-6 hours)

Day 13

Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

A short distance away is Mt. Cook, named Aoraki or ‘cloud piercer’ by South Island Maori, the highest mountain in New Zealand. Directly opposite Aoraki/Mt. Cook, there’s a stunning day hike to the main ridge above Mueller Glacier. This area has a unique alpine environment and includes endemic flora such as the Mt. Cook lily (Ranunculus lyallii), the world’s largest buttercup. Our travelers often say this is the best hike they’ve ever done and it’s a fine way to finish off a great trip. It’s a bit of a hike, and you’ll remember the view of the glacier and the surrounding peaks forever! The weather conditions are very important in this area, as it’s a true alpine climate notorious for sudden weather shifts.

If we aren’t able to do the Sealy Tarns Hike, or you’d like to take it a little easier, there’s an impressive hike up to a glacial lake (complete with icebergs!) at the base of the Hooker Glacier.

After hiking, we’ll relax at our lodge and have a celebratory dinner for our last night together.
Accommodation: Mt Cook Lodge and Motels, Mt Cook or Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel, Twizel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Sealy Tarns Hike: 3.2 miles (5.1 kilometers), 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,132 feet (650 meters) ascent, 2,132 feet (650 meters) descent

Hooker Valley Hike: 5.6 miles (9 kilometers), 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 328 feet (100 meters) ascent, 328 feet (100 meters) descent

Day 14

Depart for home

This is the last day of your trip and we’ll leave you refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you’ll have had with us in New Zealand!
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

If you're keen to extend your trip and see what the North Island has to offer (Maori culture, pristine beaches and geothermal areas) check out our 11-day Ultimate North Island Adventure (5-day options also available).

This trip includes:

13 nights’ accommodation
13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 11 dinners
Our own highly experienced guides, driver, and chef - with you from start to finish
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities outlined in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Specialized RollElite - excellent lightweight, cross-terrain touring bike with great flexibility
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

What Our Guests Say

FAQs

From the types of bikes provided on this adventure, to where you will meet your guides, to how much luggage you should bring, to the types of accommodations where we stay. Read through our FAQs for the lowdown on how to prepare for your biking adventure in New Zealand.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, please meet us outside reception at the Merivale Manor at 10:00am, our designated departure point for all guests on your trip. Please make your own arrangements to get there. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Christchurch - that's up to you. Be prepared today with your riding attire and accessible daypack with your essentials.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Christchurch Airport (CHC) in time for flights below or anywhere in Central Christchurch around 3pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Christchurch the day before your trip begins, or earlier, to accommodate potential flight delays and give you time to explore the city before your adventure starts.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Christchurch after 4pm for domestic and 5pm for international flight departures. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on the trip for the stunning setting and adventuresome feel. You’ll love the places you’ll stay in on this trip, though it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in New Zealand. You’ll stay in some nice B&B’s and lodges on this trip and some more out of the way places too! As there’s such a variety of accommodation, some places have ensuite bathrooms and some will have shared bathrooms.

Where you’ll be staying each night is detailed on the trip itinerary above. Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may stay somewhere different, which will always be a similar standard and just as comfortable.

While there are laundry facilities at most locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once, maybe twice, during your trip. The best time will be during our two night stay in Queenstown (during your free day).

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a solid level of fitness for this trip. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally on your bike, and incorporating up hills, down hills and decent distances. Most hikes on the hiking days typically take between one to five hours. Advance preparation means you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip even more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

Travel in Complete Comfort

Getting from one breathtaking destination to the next in New Zealand means road travel is essential. That’s why having comfortable, reliable transport plays a big role in making your adventure vacation enjoyable.

We own and operate our very own fleet of medium-sized coaches — perfectly suited for New Zealand’s unique roads. They’re ideal for accessing the country’s iconic highlights and venturing off the beaten track to the lesser-known places most travelers miss.

So sit back, relax, and let us take the wheel. Your New Zealand adventure is calling — and we’ll make sure you travel in comfort and style.

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance, you can find details here.

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here.

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Getting to New Zealand

New Zealand might feel like a world away, but it’s closer than you think — just a 12-hour direct flight from the Pacific Coast of North America. Major airlines, including Air New Zealand (our national carrier), offer non-stop flights to Auckland on the North Island and Christchurch on the South Island from cities like New York, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Vancouver.

Need a hand with your travel plans? Like to arrange a tropical stopover? Our trusted partners at Fuzion Travel are here to help make getting to and from New Zealand hassle-free and easy.