Wilderness, Coastlines & Vines
Full Tour Itinerary
Day One - Christchurch
After settling into our hotel in Christchurch, the group meets for the first time in the afternoon. Time and weather permitting, we take a short introductory ride through the local wetlands — the perfect opportunity to get comfortable on the bikes and ease into the journey ahead. We then head up into the nearby Port Hills to the iconic Sign of the Kiwi, for sweeping views across the city and Canterbury Plains on a clear day.
Bike fittings are completed today, ensuring everything is dialled in and ready for the adventure ahead.
Cycling: No Cycling
Accommodation: Quest Cathedral Junction
Meals: Welcome dinner
Day Two - Christchurch to Hokitika: West Coast Wilderness
We leave Christchurch today and head west, crossing the Southern Alps on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular drives. A short stop at Castle Hill offers the chance to explore its striking limestone formations, before continuing through the dramatic alpine landscapes of Arthur’s Pass.
We arrive in Kumara for lunch before beginning our first ride on the West Coast Wilderness Trail, cycling from Kumara to Milltown, followed by a short transfer to our hotel in Hokitika. The trail winds alongside rivers, across swing bridges, and through lush native bush, offering a true sense of immersion in this remote and untamed part of the West Coast.
For those wanting a little more riding, there is the option to be dropped at Lake Kaniere and follow the scenic Water Race Trail down into Hokitika.
Cycling: West Coast Wilderness - Kumara to Milltown 37kms Grade 1-3/Easy to Intermediate
Optional: Lake Kaniere to Hokitika 22.5 kms
Elevation: +431 m / -367 m
Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Three – Hokitika to Westport: Kawatiri Coastal Trail
Today begins with a scenic drive north to the iconic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, where we take a short walk to experience the dramatic limestone formations and blowholes.
We then continue to Charleston, where we begin one of the most spectacular coastal rides on the West Coast. Following sections of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, the route winds along the rugged coastline, through native bush with the Tasman Sea never far from view.
We finish the ride in Westport, a classic West Coast town at the mouth of the Buller River, where we settle in for the evening.
Cycling: Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Charlestown to Westport - 42kms Grade 2/Easy
Elevation: +339 m / -358 m
Accommodation: Asure Chelsea Gateway
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Four – Westport to Motueka: Tasman Great Taste Trail
Leaving the rugged West Coast behind, we travel north into the sunny Tasman region. Today combines peaceful countryside riding with relaxed coastal scenery. Begin with a ride from Belgrove to Tapawera on the Tasman Great Taste Trail, including the famous Spooners Tunnel — the longest decommissioned rail tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. After lunch, we transfer to Woodstock before riding quiet back-country roads through the fertile orchards, vineyards and rural landscapes of the Motueka River valley toward the relaxed seaside town of Motueka.
Cycling: Tasman Great Taste Trail – Belgrove to Tapawera (23km) & Woodstock to Motueka (33km) Grade 1-3/Easy to Intermediate
Elevation: +491m / -549m
Accommodation: ASURE Nautilus Lodge Motel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Five – Motueka: Able Tasman Coastal Experience
After several rewarding days on the bike, today offers a change of pace as you explore the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park.
Travelling by water taxi, you’ll cruise along the park’s golden shores before being dropped into one of its sheltered bays. From here, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Take a gentle walk along sections of the iconic Abel Tasman Coast Track, swim in the clear waters, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the surroundings.
For those looking for a little more activity, optional kayaking is available, offering a unique perspective of the park’s turquoise bays and sculpted coastline.
Cycling: No cycling
Accommodation: Asure Nautilus Lodge Motel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. TBA
Day Six - Motueka to Nelson – Tasman Great Taste Trail
Today we continue along the Tasman Great Taste Trail as we ride from Motueka toward Nelson. This relaxed and scenic day follows a mixture of cycle trails, quiet back-country roads, estuary boardwalks and coastal pathways through one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions. Along the way, pass orchards, vineyards and seaside villages before taking the small ferry across to Rabbit Island and continuing toward the vibrant city of Nelson.
Cycling: Tasman Great Taste Trail – Motueka to Nelson (58km)
Grade: Grade 1-2/Easy
Elevation: +433 m / -430 m
Accommodation: The Tides
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Seven - Motueka to Blenheim: Marlborough Wine Trail
This morning, we travel east to the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand’s most celebrated wine region.
Arriving in Blenheim, we begin a relaxed and sociable ride through a network of quiet country roads and dedicated cycle paths that weave between the vineyards. The terrain is flat and easy, making for an enjoyable day in the saddle as we explore this iconic region at a leisurely pace.
Along the way, we will visit a selection of cellar doors to sample Marlborough’s world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, and enjoy a leisurely lunch set among the vines.
The day finishes back in Blenheim, where you can unwind and soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant wine region.
Cycling: Marlborough Wine Trail (35km). Grade 1-3/ Easy to Intermediate
Elevation: +437 m / -418 m
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Eight - Blenheim to Kaikōura: The Whale Trail
We leave the vineyards behind and begin our journey south along the coast, riding a scenic section of the newly opened Whale Trail.
Starting just outside Blenheim, the ride gently rolls through open farmland and coastal landscapes as we make our way toward Ward. This is a relaxed and enjoyable section, offering wide-open views, quiet roads, and a sense of space as the scenery begins to shift toward the rugged coastline ahead.
From Ward, we transfer south to Kaikōura, where mountains rise dramatically from the sea. On arrival, there may be time for a whale watching flight, (optional), walk around the Kaikoura Peninsula for some wildlife spotting, or simply to relax and take in the views at the beach.
At Twilight, there is an option to join a Star Flight Zipline & Star Gazing Experience- In September 2024, Kaikōura became only the 22nd town in the world to receive the prestigious Dark Sky Sanctuary designation, awarded exclusively to locations with exceptionally pristine night skies.
This evening, enjoy Kaikōura’s renowned seafood and laid-back atmosphere — a perfect contrast to the vineyard landscapes of the previous day.
Cycling: The Whale Trail Bleheim to Ward (54km). Grade 1-3/Easy-Intermediate
Elevation: +352 m / -280 m
Accommodation: Anchor Inn
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Nine – Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs: Kaikoura Trail
This morning we take advantage of our time in Kaikōura with a relaxed ride along the spectacular coastline. Following sections of the peninsula track and quiet coastal roads, the ride offers sweeping ocean views, rugged shoreline, and the chance to spot seals basking on the rocks.
After the ride, we leave the coast behind and travel inland, heading toward the alpine village of Hanmer Springs. The journey takes us through the Waiau Valley, where the landscape gradually shifts from coastal cliffs to rolling hills and mountain scenery.
Arriving in Hanmer Springs, you may choose to relax at the renowned Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, stroll through the Hanmer Forest, or simply enjoy the peaceful alpine village setting.
Cycling: The Whale Trail and Kaikoura Trail (47kms) Grade 1-3/Easy-Intermediateon (road sections are Grade 3/intermediate)
Elevation: +211 m / -246 m
Accommodation: The Edit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Ten - Hanmer Springs to Christchurch: Back country road Culverden to Cheviot
After breakfast, we farewell the alpine village and begin our journey south through the Hurunui District. The drive itself is part of the experience—rolling farmland, wide-open valleys, and a sense of space that defines this region.
Our last ride captures the essence of North Canterbury cycling—peaceful, scenic, and wonderfully remote. Following a mix of gravel and sealed backroads, we ride through expansive farmland and along the Hurunui River basin, far from busy highways.
The terrain is gently rolling, offering just enough challenge to feel earned, while still being achievable and enjoyable for all riders. With minimal traffic and big-sky views, it’s a fitting way to reflect on the journey we’ve shared over the past ten days.
After the ride, we continue by vehicle back to Christchurch for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Cycling: Culverden to Cheviot (48km), road riding Grade 3 - intermediate)
Elevation: +858 m / -974 m
Accommodation: Quest Cathedral Junction
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Day Eleven - Departure Day
It's time to head home after ten days on tour. Please let us know if you wish for airport transfers to be organised (extra cost).
Meals: No meals included today
Tour Includes:
X10 nights in mostly 4 - 5 star accommodation (pre and post nights can be arranged on request for an additional cost)
X9breakfasts, x2 dinners, 9 Lunches & Daily Snacks
Abel Tasman day cruise and optional hike (Kayak option can be arranged on request for an additional cost)
Mapua Ferry
Air-conditioned Mercedes Benz Sprinter Coach
Luggage transport during the entire journey (luggage is transported on the bus during the cycling stages)
2 guides/drivers on trips of 8 or more people
E-bike hire
Drink bottle and PCT t-shirt
Pannier
Use of a helmet
Multi tool, tyre levers, spare tube and repair kit
All Department of Conservation fees and trail fees
Tour Excludes:
Meals/food not included in itinerary
Airfares/travel costs to/from the start/finish of the tour
Airport transfers (can be arranged on request for additional cost)
Drinks (except water during the cycling), telephone & mini-bar costs
Personal expenses such as laundry, any internet charges etc
eBIG Tour 400 EQ
eBIG NINE 400 EQ
Espresso CC 400 EQ
eBIG Seven 400 EQ
Bike Information
Our Small and Medium sized Ebikes are the eBIG Tour 400 EQ. Joining together urban practicality with the willingness to explore is no easy feat, but the eBIG.TOUR 400 EQ does just that, with the new Shimano EP6 drive unit giving you smooth yet powerful assistance whenever you need it. Large volume tyres, a suspension fork and mountain bike inspired geometry deliver capable and confident handling whenever you want an adventure, but the low (trapeze) frame design with integrated 630 Wh battery and generous standard fit equipment including mudguards and lighting have your everyday needs covered, so there's no need to compromise.
Our Large and Extra Large Sized Ebike are the eBIG NINE 400 EQ. More fun when you're riding off-road, with a powerful new Shimano EP6 drive unit to help you up the hills. More versatility, thanks to a fully equipped spec that includes lights, mudguards, lock, rack and kickstand. More time on the bike, with an integrated 630 Wh battery that'll keep you going for miles. More control, thanks to a SR Suntour suspension fork, chunky tyres and powerful Shimano brakes. More comfort on the commute, thanks to standard fit mudguards, lights, rack and kickstand.
We do have a limited number of step-through bikes available, please enquire at the time of booking. These are the Espresso CC 400 EQ. This is Merida's latest smart and stiff low step-through frame with an internally mounted 504 Wh battery and Shimano's latest powerful EP6 drive unit to deliver impressive function. Shimano's workhorse 9-speed drivetrain and strong hydraulic brakes won't let you down, while the bike comes fitted with guards, rack, lights, lock and a kickstand as standard, meaning no expensive add-ons are needed to get rolling.
For our Extra Small riders, we offer the eBIG Seven 400 EQ. Exactly like it's bigger cousin above, just in a smaller frame size, smaller wheel size (27.5 inch) and slightly smaller battery (504 Wh).
**There is very little difference between the eBIG Tour and eBIG Nine, apart from the frame types. The eBIG Tour has a trapeze frame and the eBIG Nine has a standard frame. Both are perfectly designed for our NZ Bike Trails.
A removable gel seat can be supplied for no extra charge
Carrier and back cage to for x1 Pannier (provided)
Helmet included in hire