Paradise Plus 19 day Road Cycling Tour from Auckland to Christchurch Day 1 Arrive in Auckland and sightseeing Day 2 Auckland - Whitianga: 251km, 52km biking Clevedon - Miranda Day 3 Freeday in Whitianga: Visit Hot Water Beach, kayaking ... Day 4 Whitianga - Rotorua: 245km, 49km biking Tairua - Whiritoa Day 5 Freeday in Rotorua Day 6 Rotorua - National Park (NP): 200km, 53km biking Turangi - NP Day 7 NP. - Wanganui: 125km, 57km biking Kakatahi - Wanganui Day 8 Wanganui - Wellington: 195km Day 9 Wellington - Nelson: 105km, 34km biking Picton - Havelock Day 10 Freeday in Nelson: walking, kayaking, swimming... Day 11 Nelson - Westport: 230km, 65km biking Lyell - Westport Day 12 Westport - Hokitika: 145km, 45km biking Punakaiki - Greymouth Day 13 Hokitika - Fox Glacier: 160km, 62km biking Hari Hari-Franz Josef Day 14 Fox Glacier - Wanaka: 264km, 81km biking Pleasant Flat - Hawea Day 15 Wanaka - Queenstown: 81km, 51km biking Wanaka - Arrowtown Day 16 Freeday in Queenstown: walking, Bungy, Rafting... Day 17 Queenstown - Twizel: 220km, 61km biking Lindis Pass - Twizel Day 18 Twizel - Christchurch: 281km, 33km biking Canal road - Tekapo Day 19 Christchurch: departure Introduction New Zealand offers a diversity of landscape from volcanoes, hot springs, fast flowing rivers, alluvial plains, native forests alive with the sound of native bird song, to impossibly rugged, snow covered Alps and deep, sheer sided fjords. Where else can you find such variety in a country roughly the size of Great Britain? As one client put it "Yesterday was amazing, I just couldn't imagine today being better, yet it was!" (Dennis Hill) He was still saying that after 19 days! New Zealand is sparsely populated, with only 4 million people. The roads are generally quiet and the scenery spectacular; a combination which makes it a perfect cycling destination. It is through this constantly changing, uncluttered countryside that you will cycle, your senses invigorated by the sights and sounds of your surroundings. A combined bus and cycle tour ensures that you can cycle the highlights of both Islands in a relatively short time. You will cycle approximately 700 km, however you are always welcome to ride in the support vehicle whenever you feel the need. Experience has taught us that it's best not to overdo the first couple of days. Stop when you feel you have done enough. Over-doing those first few days could spoil your holiday! Day 1 Auckland - Arrival All tour members will meet at the hotel early afternoon. Participants arriving today (transfers are between 7am and 2pm only) will be picked up from the airport and transferred to their accommodation. Later in the afternoon we take you on a short sightseeing tour of "The City of Sails", which has the largest population of New Zealand. The bike fitting (for those that hire bikes) will also be completed this afternoon. A stroll along the famous harbour may be a nice finish to the first day. No Cycling Like Sydney, Auckland is dominated by the sea and by the hills. If Rome was built on seven hills, Auckland was built on seven extinct sea-side volcanoes. On one side of the isthmus on which it is built is the Pacific Ocean; on the other the Tasman Sea. At its narrowest, this isthmus is only about a kilometer wide. The city, however, sprawls sideways along the shores of Waitemata and Manukau Harbours and along the Hauraki Gulf. Waitemata Harbour - Sea of Sparkling Waters - is dominated by Rangitoto Island. This closeness to water has two results. First, everyone in Auckland is mad bonkers on sailing. There is one boat to every 16 people. Another effect is that Auckland has a very temperate climate. Most of the rain falls in June, July and August and the coldest month, July, averages about 13 degrees Celsius during the day. Day 2 Auckland - Whitianga After breakfast we head to Clevedon by bus. Here you start your first cycling day riding along the amazing coastal road to Miranda. From there we drive over the forest covered Coromandel range, where remnants of the beautiful Kauri trees that once covered the Peninsula can be found, to reach our destination of Whitianga. Cycling from: Clevedon to Miranda - 52km, total distance 251km Day 3 Whitianga (Rest Day) Whitianga has much to offer, from kayaking, riding and hiking some of the local bush walks, to an excursion to Hot Water Beach, so named because a hot spring bubbles up through the sand, making it a lovely warm place to relax at low tide and watch swimmers enjoying the sea and surf. No Cycling For many residents of Auckland the Coromandel has become a weekend retreat from the pressures of the modern world of work. For drop-outs from around the world the Coromandel is Shangri-la. Coromandel is an alternative to the Bay of Islands of the far north: a slower, sun-washed piece of New Zealand made up of artist colonies, empty beaches, jungle tracks, and mountain hideaways. The great attraction of the Coromandel remains its natural beauty, which can be experienced by driving (or cycling) the peninsula's few roads, hiking any of its many fine walking tracks, or swimming, boating, snorkeling or just strolling along its coast. Day 4 Whitianga - Rotorua Eastwards from the Coromandel Peninsula lies the `Bay of Plenty'. The coastal road threads its way between the rugged Coromandel range to our right and the coast, littered with beautiful beaches on our left. We cycle from Tairua to Whiritoa through the Tairua Forest. At Tauranga we head inland and travel through the Kaimai - Mamaku Forest to the shores of Lake Rotorua. Cycling from: Tairua to Whiritoa - 49km, total distance 245km Day 5 Rotorua - Rest and activities day Today there is a morning city tour along the lake to the famous church of St Faiths. After lunch we recommend a tour (optional) through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Park, famous for its active wonderland of geysers, hot springs and boiling mud pools. This evening, why not enjoy a traditional Maori concert & Hangi dinner (also optional). No cycling Rotorua is one of the most famous destinations in New Zealand, and has a long history of welcoming visitors. From the moment people arrive in Rotorua they know they're somewhere quite different. There is a scent of sulphur in the air, and at nearby geothermal hotspots there are spouting geysers, acrid-smelling mud pools bubbling and belching, and warm geothermal pools and ponds that create a kaleidoscope of colour. Day 6 Rotorua - National Park Driving south, we head toward New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo. We follow its shores to Turangi, and start cycling at its southern end, before it takes us past Lake Rotoaira and up onto the Volcanic Plateau. En route there are spectacular views of Lake Taupo to the North, and Mount Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu to the south. Cycling from: Turangi to National Park - 53km, total distance 200km In 1993 Tongariro became the first property to be inscribed on the World Heritage List under the revised cultural criteria describing cultural landscapes. The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people and symbolize the spiritual links between this community and its environment. The park contains active and extinct volcanoes, a diverse range of ecosystems and highly scenic landscapes. Day 7 National Park - Wanganui We ride along the western side of the Tongariro National Park, before leaving it behind at Raetihi. Here we follow the Mangawhero River to Wanganui, one of New Zealand's oldest towns. Nestled on the plains near the mouth of the river, which gave the city its name, Wanganui is famous for its many mature gardens, earning it the appropriate nickname the "Garden City". Cycling from: Kakatahi to Wanganui - 57km, total distance 125km The fabulous Wintergardens of Wanganui in the south of New Zealand's North Island are made up of parklands, the Virginia Lake and a spacious hothouse which boasts spectacular arrays of exotic flowering plants and vines. Day 8 Wanganui - Wellington A coastal journey through lush, rolling pastoral land slowly changes as we approach Wellington. In the afternoon there is a short sightseeing tour around New Zealand's capital, euphemistically known as the "Windy City", if you are unlucky, you may learn why! Take the chance to visit the National Museum "Te Papa" in the afternoon or have a ride in the cable car to the Botanical Gardens. No cycling - total distance 195km Welcome to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Perched on the edge of a spectacular harbour, encircled by green, towering hills, Wellington is a stunning and compact city. Vibrant, exciting and cultured, the nation's capital combines the stimulation and sophistication of a big city with the quirkiness of a charming village. Extending just two kilometres in diameter, Wellington is a truly 'walking city'. Here you'll find a unique blend of national treasures, arts and culture, gastronomic delights, shopping sensations and scenic beauty, making Wellington the ultimate urban destination in New Zealand. Wellington has a feast of cultural attractions and its crowning glory is Te Papa, the national museum of New Zealand. Situated on Wellington's magnificent waterfront, this internationally acclaimed museum combines leading edge technology with traditional exhibits to tell the stories of New Zealand's land and people. Day 9 Wellington - Nelson This morning we take a 3.5 hour ferry journey across Cook Strait and enter the South Island via Tory channel and Queen Charlotte Sound. From Picton we cycle along the beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive to Havelock, which lies at the head of the Pelorous Sound. From there we take the bus to Nelson, New Zealand's sunniest town, situated not far from the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Cycling from: Picton to Havelock - 34km, total distance 105km Nelson - a pocket paradise nestled in the top northwest corner of the South Island. The entire area is said to resemble the prow of the waka (canoe) of Maui, an important figure in Maori mythology, and was known by the Maori as Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (the tip of the nose of the canoe of Maui). Our trademarks are stunning scenery and a diverse culture that has blossomed in this area of rich resources and easy climate. You are never short of something to do in the Nelson region and you are ensured of encountering many original characters amongst a vital network of artists and craftspeople, Maori marae, farm and orchard settlements, alternative communities and adventurers - friendly folk happy to share their good life with you. Day 10 Nelson (Rest Day) The township of Nelson is very beautiful, colourful and offers a great opportunity to stroll around. Today's program could be hiking, kayaking or just relaxing with a good book. The famous Abel Tasman Coastal walk is just an hours drive away and offers an easy graded track on which to explore some of the lovely native forest and sandy beaches. No Cycling Whether you're looking for an active holiday or a lazy day at the beach, Abel Tasman National Park is the perfect destination. Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's smallest national park. Day 11 Nelson - Westport Just before Lyell we visit the longest swing bridge in New Zealand. From there we start cycling along the gorgeous Buller gorge, with its deep, slow flowing waters contrasting against the lush vegetation of the native forest. As you travel westwards note how the trees change, the forest becomes denser and damper and takes on a sub-tropical, rainforest look. After arriving in Westport we drive to Cape Foulwind to visit a small fur seal colony before checking into our Motel. Cycling from: Lyell to Westport - 65km, total distance 230km Cape Foulwind is a conservation area toward the northern end of the West Coast of the South Island. It's main feature is a breeding colony for the New Zeland Fur Seal, which is well worth a look, since you get an excellent view of the nursery area from the viewing platforms on the cliff above it. Day 12 Westport - Hokitika It is an hours drive to Punakaiki where we stop to visit the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. This area is famed for its blowholes and pancake rocks, and is so named because the sand and limestone formations look like, well stacked pancakes! This is a must-see when visiting the West Coast. From Punakaiki you ride along the spectacular coastal road to Greymouth. Here we stop to visit a Greenstone factory, where you have the opportunity to buy jade carvings and jewellery at reasonable prices. The final 40km to Hokitika is by bus. In the evening enjoy a pleasant stroll along the beach and watch the sun set into the sea. Cycling from: Punakaiki to Greymouth - 45km, total distance 145km Greymouth is the gateway to the South Westland World Heritage National Park. The Arahura River, which enters the sea 8 kilometres north of Hokitika, is a traditional source of pounamu (greenstone) for the Maori people and still yields a large proportion of the Coast's continuing supply. Day 13 Hokitika - Fox Glacier A few kms south of Hokitika is Ross, a rural service town and centre for a small open caste gold mine. The flora begins to change, from open pastoral land to dense rainforest. In Hari Hari we start cycling as the road twists and turns, seeking passage through this almost impenetrable forest and unforgiving, rugged countryside taking us to the township of Franz Josef. Continuing in the vehicle for the last 25km to Fox Glacier, we visit the Glacier Face before checking into our accommodation. There may be time for an optional helicopter flight to the Glaciers (including landing) with spectacular views to Mt.Cook on a clear day. Cycling from: Hari Hari to Franz Josef - 62km, total distance 160km Day 14 Fox Glacier - Wanaka First thing this morning we suggest you take a walk to the picturesque Lake Matheson. After breakfast as we travel south, the journey becomes more spectacular, the Alps are higher, and the coast more rugged. The road snakes its way through dense rainforest, the Pakihi swamp and along the coast. Just before Haast we cross the longest single lane bridge in New Zealand. Haast is situated in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand's largest. Its world importance was recognised by UNESCO when it gave it "World Heritage" status. Much of the native bush here remains untouched. We spend a short time at the local Visitor's Centre, which has excellent displays showing how the land has evolved. We cycle along the Haast River. What begins as an almost flat ride slowly steepens as you enter the Haast River valley, past Thunder Falls, through the Gates of Haast where the waters of the Haast river tumble past huge boulders carelessly strewn about the riverbed. A steady climb follows as you ascend the newest alpine road to transect the Southern Alps. Your goal is the 563m Haast Pass. Once there your reward is an exhilarating downhill to the Blue Pools, where there may be time for a short walk. In Makarora the dense native bush gives way to dryer, more arid countryside as we pass Lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Wanaka is a beautiful and very well known tourist destination, during summer and winter. Cycling from: Pleasant Flat to Hawea - 81km, total distance 264km Here in the heart of the Southern Lakes, ringed by golden hills, snow-clad peaks, ancient forests, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, you'll find time and space to truly enjoy yourself. The town acts as a magnet for New Zealanders and international visitors alike who want to return to sample the delights of a range of activities, cafes, shops & restaurants. Day 15 Wanaka - Queenstown Today's journey takes you past the historic Cardrona Hotel, (a relic from the gold prospecting days) and over the Crown Range. From the saddle there is a great downhill ride to Arrowtown, an idyllic & preserved gold mining town with its lovely tree lined streets and fascinating shops. After a short stroll we continue to Queenstown. Cycling from: Wanaka to Arrowtown - 51km, total distance 81km Day 16 Queenstown - Rest Day/Other Activities Day! Queenstown is an outdoor adventurers playground. Options include: a day trip to Fiordlands Milford or Doubtful Sound. Or local activities such as shopping, gondola ride to the Skyline restaurant and viewpoint, lake ride aboard the historic steamship Earnslaw, jet boating on the Shotover River, bungy jumping, white water rafting, tandem paragliding, or a visit to the Kiwi house to see New Zealand's national icon in the flesh. No Cycling Welcome to the original home of Bungy... The Kawarau Bridge. A 43 metre Bungy Jump above the Kawarau River. Situated 20 minutes from the heart of Queenstown. Originally built to link Queenstown to Central Otago during the gold rush of the 1880's, later replaced by the larger and more modern Battling Betty Bridge in the 1960's. The bridge fell into a state of disrepair and was deemed unsafe until Henry van Asch and AJ Hackett applied for a one month license to use the bridge commercially for Bungy Jumping in 1988. As they say; the rest is history and a piece of New Zealand heritage has been saved. A fee is paid to the Department of Conservation for every jump by AJ Hackett Bungy to maintain the site. In 2002 the company is investing in a new development for the Kawarau Bridge reserve, this will include a Cinematic Bungy Experience, interactive displays, quality cafe and shopping facilities. Day 17 Queenstown - Twizel Heading out of Queenstown we once again follow the Kawarau River through its gorge and past vineyards. After a brief stop at "Mama Jones" fruit stall, we travel north across Lake Dunstan and to the top of Lindis Pass. Here we start cycling an amazing downhill ride. After the pass the ride is predominantly flat, however if the Norwest wind is blowing, watch out for strong gusts! In Omarama we stop for a lunch break before continuing to cycle to Twizel. Cycling from: Lindis Pass to Twizel - 61km, total distance 220km Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand's highest and largest mountain. Reaching a height of 3754 metres its shear size and massive bulk easily dwarf the surrounding peaks. Day 18 Twizel - Christchurch On a clear day you will be treated to magnificent views of New Zealand's highest mountain, Mt Cook, or Aoraki, the cloud piercer at the head of Lake Pukaki. From there we cycle along the Pukaki canal until reaching the turquoise glacier lake in Tekapo. The area is now famous for its Merino sheep and Hydro-Electric Power System, which consists of 6 lakes joined by canals. We leave the MacKenzie Basin over the 671m Burkes Pass and travel via Fairlie, Geraldine and Ashburton through the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Once in Christchurch we take a short sightseeing tour of the city, including the Port Hills and the 'Sign of the Takahe' with its magnificent views over the South Pacific and across the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps. Cycling from: Canal Rd Turnoff to Tekapo - 33km, total distance 281km Whatever the time of year, Christchurch is the perfect choice for a well-deserved short break, longer stay or even for just a few hours. Christchurch's unique combination of fascinating heritage, beautiful coastline, peaceful rivers and spectacular natural harbour appeals to all ages and provides all the ingredients to make your visit extra special. Christchurch Tourism - the Southern Alps provides a fantastic backdrop to the city. Perched on the coast, the city is the doorway to the Canterbury Plains, which spread westwards towards the mountains. To the south-east, Banks Peninsula, formed by two huge volcanic craters, extends into the Pacific Ocean. Nature has been kind to this part of New Zealand and it is nature that offers the richest rewards for the visitor. Day 19 Christchurch - Departure All participants will be transported to the airport between 7am and 3.30pm. Please note that your trip may differ from the above itinerary either to better suit the needs of the group, or due to circumstances beyond our control such as the weather. Tour includes: * Airport transfers Day 1 only: Auckland (between 7am & 2pm from the Airport) Day 19 only: Christchurch (between 7am & 3.30pm from the Hotel) Transfers outside these days/times are your own arrangements * Accommodation: 18 nights in 3-4 star (NZ standard) hotels & motels * Meals: none There is an option to contribute to a group kitty for the occasional breakfast and many picnic lunches. For those that are interested (purely optional), the Tourguide will collect approx NZ$100pp * Tourguide (who is also the driver) * Support vehicle (Coaster Bus) with bike trailer (& luggage space) (luggage limited to 1 suitcase per person + 1 daypack) * Ferrycrossing Wellington to Picton (normally mid morning crossing) * Sightseeing tour Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland Tour Excludes: * International flights & airport taxes * Airport transfers outside the days/times specified above * Travel Insurance * Meals * Drinks (except daily drinking water), phone calls & Minibar expenses * Personal expenses (including any specific medical related requirements) Tour Grading - 1= Easy, 2=Moderate, 3=Medium, 4=Challenging, 5=Extreme Optional Bike Hire is available: For more information on our optional bike hire including hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes request our Bike Hire information sheet or follow this link: http://www.bike-nz.com/bikes/ For the latest departure dates and pricing visit our website: http://www.bike-nz.com/ pacific CYCLE tours US TEL: 800 732 0921 Unit 3, 14 Kennaway Road NZ TEL: +64 3 9829 913 Christchurch, 8002 NZ FAX: +64 3 9829 911 New Zealand reservations@bike-nz.com www.bike-nz.com pacific CYCLE tours US TEL: 800 732 0921 Unit 3, 14 Kennaway Road NZ TEL: +64 3 9829 913 Christchurch, 8002 NZ FAX: +64 3 9829 911 New Zealand reservations@bike-nz.com www.bike-nz.com