Feel small next to the imposing and utterly beautiful surrounds on tour
Adore the changing scenery and the great cycling through the south
Visit Punakaiki on day 1 and see the spectacular Pancake Rocks
Ride past mountains and glaciers and of course, the mighty ocean
Spend some time with the glaciers at Fox and Franz Josef

Great West Coast Cycle

Duration
8 days
Site savings
$25
From
$2,404 USD
23 Reviews

Embark on this 8 day road cycling adventure taking you from Christchurch to Queenstown. Known as New Zealand's most famous and scenic multi-day cycle ride this spectacular trip from Christchurch to Queenstown is also regarded as one of the world's top five cycle touring routes. Averaging daily rides of up to 100kms, and many high alpine pass crossings including the spectacular Haast Pass, the cycling will take you past an ever-changing landscape.

  • Category
    Road Cycling
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    8 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    3 - Intermediate
  • Activity Level
    3 - Active
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Mixed
  • Distance
    343.6 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    49.7 miles
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  • Where does the tour start and end?

    The tour starts in central Christchurch where you will meet at 7:15am on day 1 at Cathedral Junction.  Fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC).

    The tour ends in Queenstown on the final day. Fly out of Queenstown Airport (ZQN).

  • How long is the tour? How many cycling days?

    The tour is 8 days long with 7 days being cycling days.

  • What's the tour like?

    The Great West Coast Cycle is graded moderate to challenging. You will need to be a competent road rider with stamina and a good level of fitness, you should be able to cycle comfortably for up to 6-8 hours or around 80km/50miles per day, day after day, with some extended uphill ascents.

    There are some long days and some steep sections. You should be confident riding on main roads alongside traffic which can be traveling at speed. This tour is not for beginners. The tour is fully supported and if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle.

  • Who will lead the group?

    The guides are one of the biggest assets of the tour operator and they have pride for their level of quality and high standards. Once the trip reaches 8 people,  two expert guides will join to maximise your enjoyment and overall experience. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of the guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but the guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Overall Rating:
5.0/5
View all 23 reviews
Muir M
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

A truly memorable trip in the very capable hands of [the tour operator]. Friendly, efficient, entertaining & informative guides, a spectacular & challenging route through extraordinary country, excellent & confidence-inspiring Merida bikes, fine accommodation every night, some very good food, and the ever-present bus with water & snacks whenever you needed it. Plus the opportunity for some time off for other activities in beautiful places like Franz Josef, Wanaka & Queenstown. And all in the company of a charming & friendly group of people. Make sure you are comfortable with averaging 75kms per day over 7 days, with some significant climbing on at least 3 of those days. I would happily come back to NZ and tour again with [the tour operator]. In fact I can't wait...


Alan E
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Our guides, Dave and Sue, were exceptional; warm, friendly, knowledgable who went out of their way to assist us with any request. Dave's accounts of NZ and Maori history were very interesting. The side excursions, hiking to the Franz Josef glacier, or Lake Matheson, for example, were very enjoyable and a nice complement to cycling. Accommodations varied but even the simpler ones were in good locations, clean and functional.


Sergio R
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

I cannot recommend this tour enough. The guides, Sue and Dave are absolutely amazing: knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic and always going above and beyond to make sure you have the best time possible. The administrative and management staff are equally professional and friendly. Can't wait to do it again!


View all 23 reviews