This superb cycling adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown offers you a chance to explore the vast and impressive Mackenzie Basin by bike to truly appreciate its huge glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains. The itinerary also allows you an opportunity to stretch the legs to admire the grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain, when you walk beneath its flanks.
The tour begins with an awesome ride on the Banks Peninsula with views of the vivid blue Lyttelton Harbour, the crater of an ancient volcano. As you depart from Christchurch, you'll traverse rolling farmland before embarking on some of the finest gravel riding in the region, skirting the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. A memorable overnight stay in Mount Cook Village, surrounded by alpine peaks, sets the stage for your next leg to Lake Ohau, where more breathtaking lake and mountain vistas await.
Continuing the adventure, you'll follow the Waitaki River to the coast, traversing the expansive "big-sky country" of Central Otago. Here, you'll ride the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail, a route celebrated for its pioneering history and enjoyable terrain. The final destination is the vibrant town of Queenstown, situated beside the stunning Lake Wakatipu. Known as the 'Adventure Capital of New Zealand,' Queenstown offers an array of activities and is the perfect place to extend your stay.
This tour blends classic gravel riding with tranquil paved backcountry roads, catering to road cyclists and mountain bikers alike. Whether you are a seasoned gravel rider or new to the sport, this adventure promises some of the finest gravel riding NZ has to offer, set against a backdrop of unmatched natural beauty. You will need to be a competent rider on sealed and gravel roads, with stamina and a good level of fitness. There are also some sections of easy to intermediate off-road cycle trail, suitable for a gravel bike. You should be able to cycle comfortably for 4-6 hours or around 80km/50miles per day, day after day. There are some long undulating and hilly sections. You should be confident riding on rural roads alongside some traffic which can be travelling at speed. This tour is not for beginners and is fully supported so if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle.