- 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
- 8-9 Guests +$500 per person to trip price*
- 6-7 Guests +$1,000 per person to trip price*
- 4-5 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
- 2-3 Guests +$2,500 per person to trip price*
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Millennium Hotel Christchurch (14 Square Cathedral Square, Christchurch, New Zealand) at 10:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After a 2.5 hour shuttle you’ll arrive at the shores of Lake Pearson. After lunch, your guides will spend some time fitting and familiarizing you with your bike for the week. Then we take to the road for the warm-up ride toward Arthur’s Pass, surrounded by mountainous peaks while riding alongside the braided river-bed of the Waimakariri River. This evening we’ll gather for social hour and a discussion of the week to come before dining on exceptional regional cuisine prepared at the lodge.
Lake Pearson to Arthur’s Pass
Approximately 20 miles with 800 feet of climbing
Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge
Today we will head to the eastern end of the Wilderness Lodge’s Cora Lynn Station farm to Lake Pearson where we paddle across this lovely lake to the Purple Peak fan for morning tea on the lakeshore, searching for endangered Crested Grebe and other water birds along the way. Afterward, we will continue our adventure as we scramble down the Broken River gorge through amazing tumbled landscape of eroded limestone. Feeling rejuvenated after a bountiful lunch, we will travel upstream from the Porter River junction and climb onto the magnificent limestone castles and tors of Prebble Hill. Prior to dinner you’ll experience the sheep dogs mustering techniques followed by a sheep shearing demonstration at the sheep station at the lodge.
Kayak
Lake Pearson
Hike
Broken River Gorge
Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge
After a hearty breakfast we shuttle two hours to Hokitika, founded on gold mining in 1864, now known for its local artisans making jewelry from greenstone (Jade), found in the local rivers. As you make your way down the west coast, you will be inspired by the snow-capped mountains and the breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea. You’ll arrive at the Glacier Retreat where this pioneer family has resided for over 100 years. This special place has the intimate atmosphere of a private residence. Enjoy the culinary delights prepared by the 5th generation residents of Franz Josef.
Ross to Franz Josef
Approximately 70 miles with 2,000 feet of climbing
Hokitika to Franz Josef Glacier
Approximately 82 miles
Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat
After a hearty breakfast, choose to ride to Okarito Lagoon, home of the kotuku (white heron), or hike to the base of Franz Josef Glacier. Following this unforgettable experience, you’re free to explore town and try one of the many restaurants for lunch. Weather permitting, you’ll have the option to go heli-hiking on the glacier—your Trek Travel guides can help set this up with a local tour operator. (This activity is not included in the trip price.) Tonight you’ll be at your leisure to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Franz Joseph to Okarito Lagoon
Approximately 30 miles with 900 feet of climbing
Hike
Base of Franz Joseph Glacier
Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat
This morning you will have the opportunity to challenge yourself over the triple bypass, a series of challenging hills or opt for a more relaxed morning shuttle over to the town of Fox Glacier. As you continue to make your way further south toward Westland National Park, take a break for a rejuvenating lunch at Bruce Bay, overlooking the Tasman Sea. Along the way, you can visit a Salmon Farm, specializing in smoked salmon. This afternoon you will arrive at the Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge. Situated amidst temperate rainforests, this amazing property has been recently renovated and features excellent hiking trails, kayaking and even glow-worms. Tonight we will gather for social hour and dinner at the lodge.
Fox Glacier to Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge
Approximately 50 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing
Franz Josef Glacier to Lake Moeraki
Approximately 75 miles
Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge
Today our naturalist guide will take us on an interpretive hike through the temperate rainforest to the banks of the Lower Moeraki River. From there you will kayak to the mouth of the river where you meet up with the Tasman Sea. Alternatively, our naturalist guide will take us on an adventurous hike, crossing some streams, until you emerge from the forest onto a breathtaking beach. From there, you will hike along the Tasman Sea in search of a resident Fur Seal colony, usually found basking in the sun. Both excursions are scheduled around the current tide table. Tonight we gather for another delicious dinner at our Lodge.
Lake Moeraki to Haast Beach
Approximately 40 miles with 1900 feet of climbing
Hike
Lake Moeraki
Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge
We’ll rise early today to prepare for the day’s long, spectacular ride to Wanaka. After breakfast you’ll have many options for shortening the ride to fit your mood. If high miles and challenging ascents are calling you, then you’ll start the ride from the lodge. If you’d rather take it easy, we’ll let you know the best places to start and finish, so you don’t miss some of the most beautiful vistas. No matter what option you choose, you’ll enjoy watching the scenery change as we make our way from the temperate rainforests of the west coast, over Haast Pass and the continental divide, to the pristine lakes featured around Wanaka. This evening we’ll enjoy a well-earned, homemade BBQ and expansive selection of tempting desserts with the fabulous hosts at our comfortable B&B-style lodge.
Lake Moeraki to Makarora or Wanaka
Approximately 30 miles with 500 feet of climbing
Haast to Pleasant Flats, Makarora or Wanaka
Approximately 90 miles with 4,500 feet of climbing
Edgewater Resort
The options are endless again today and include adventures other than cycling so you can explore the area in a diverse fashion. Choose from the myriad optional activities that Wanaka has to offer, or opt for another day on the bike. Your guides can make arrangements for scenic flights out to Milford Sound, skydiving, jet boating, fishing, river sledging or any other adrenaline activity that you might be interested in. (These activities are not included in the trip price). If you are looking for a more mellow adventure, we have a beautiful bike ride out to Treble Cone along Lake Wanaka, or a short stroll along the lake to the renowned Rippon Winery. We’ll enjoy our final dinner together at Relishes Café in Wanaka and raise a glass to new friends and the cherished memories of awesome adventures undertaken during our South Island journey.
Wanaka to Treble Cone
Approximately 30 miles with 1,800 feet of climbing
Edgewater Resort
After breakfast we’ll take a one-hour hike up Mt. Iron for a great view of Wanaka, followed by a light snack. You’ll say farewell to your guides at 10:30 AM at Edgewater Resort. You’ll then shuttle to the Queenstown airport and downtown hotels. Connecting flights to Christchurch and Auckland are available on a regular basis. We suggest that you do not book a flight on this day prior to 3:00 PM.
Optional Hike
Mt. Iron
Every moment of a Trek Travel bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.
Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience.
On all of our vacations, Trek Travel strives to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Australia is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type 2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider. Type 4 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer. See day by day itinerary for specific daily ride distance and elevation options.
We suggest that you arrive at least two days prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Christchurch (CHC). There are direct flights from Asia and North America. Air New Zealand, Quantas, United Airlines, Singapore Air, and Malaysian Air all fly into Auckland (AKL). From Auckland, there are daily connecting flights to Christchurch (CHC). Upon arriving in Christchurch, you can take a taxi to the city center for approximately $40 (NZ $50).
We recommend flying out of Queenstown. Connecting flights to Christchurch and Auckland are available on a regular basis.
Millennium Hotel Christchurch | Christchurch, New Zealand
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at Millennium Hotel Christchurch (14 Square Cathedral Square, Christchurch, New Zealand) at 10:00 AM on the first day of the trip. We’ll meet just outside of reception in the parking area and will then shuttle two hours to Lake Pearson for our first lunch together. You should have your cycling gear with you in a small bag separate from your main luggage, or be dressed ready to ride.
If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge (+64 (3) 318 9246), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night’s hotel, Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge, for approximately $225 US ($300 NZ.)
View our pre hotel recommendationsEdgewater Resort | Queenstown, New Zealand
You will say farewell to your guides at 10:30 AM at the Edgewater Resort. You’ll then shuttle to the Queenstown airport and downtown hotels. Connecting flights to Christchurch and Auckland are available on a regular basis. We suggest that you do not book a flight on this day prior to 3:00 PM.
View our post hotel recommendationsChristchurch, known as the Garden City, maintains an impressive Botanic Garden located in Hagley Park. In the heart of the city is Cathedral Square, featuring an Anglican cathedral and a bustling outdoor market. Take one of the informative heritage trams through the city with an entertaining commentary. For a more tranquil experience, try punting on the Avon River, which meanders through the city center. There is also the International Antarctic Centre which recreates the atmosphere of Antarctica, including the Blue Penguin Encounter. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre trip hotel:
Queenstown is surrounded by majestic mountains on Lake Wakatipu and is recognized as the adrenaline capital of the world. Whether you want to go skydiving, bungee jumping, jet-boating, whitewater rafting, sailing, hiking, climbing, fishing, golfing or simply relaxing, the choices are endless. A visit to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries located in the Central Otago is a must. We recommend the following accommodations for your post trip hotel:
Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the all-new, ultra smooth Trek Domane SL 7, to the new Trek Electric-Assist XM700+ and the comfortable Trek 7.6 FX Hybrid, to our numerous upgrade options, you deserve the best ride on your vacation.
Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.
Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.