We drive from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass, then bike down minor roads on our way to the coast, Punakaiki and its famous BlowHoles. From here, we head south, pedalling through lush rainforest, past picture-perfect West Coast Glaciers and lakes. There is a rest day at Franz Josef Glacier with hiking or sightseeing opportunities.
We stay at a Wilderness Lodge in the rainforest, where you can walk to the beach and see penguins! We cross Haast Pass to sheep country and Wanaka, set on beautiful Lake Wanaka, overlooked by Mt Aspiring National Park. Lake Wanaka’s spectacular location at the foot of the Southern Alps with the wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park nearby makes it a magnet for outdoor lovers worldwide.
Around 1.9 million visitors visit Queenstown annually to enjoy their unforgettable travel experience. Visitors come to experience our awe-inspiring scenery, search for adventure, seek out relaxation and rejuvenation, or breathe our pure mountain air. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world.
Contact us for a quote on a PRIVATE TOUR (your family and friends only)
DAY 1 PUNAKAIKI.
You can meet us in Punakaiki or we can pick you up from the Tranz Alpine train station in Greymouth. Then, visit the Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
DAY 2 HOKITIKA.
We head south along the rainforest-clad coast to Greymouth and then to Hokitika, a former gold rush town.
DAY 3 FRANZ JOSEF
We start with a short ride over Mt Hercules. A run into Westland National Park and Franz Josef Glacier. With superb views of snow-capped peaks. A rest day provides time for a walk to the glacier – a day on the beach, a visit to the white heron colony, or a scenic flight.
DAY 4 Haast.
Ride from Franz Josef and Fox Glacier through beautiful native forests. After three severe climbs, the remaining terrain is gently undulating. From Fox to Lake Paringa, the road passes through lush rainforests of rimu, rata, and flax-filled swamps.
DAY 5 MAKARORA.
Knights Point affords excellent views of the rugged coastline, where seals often bask in the sun.
DAY 6 + 7 WANAKA.
Spectacular mountain and lake views as we pass Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. Visit a vineyard or take a hike up Mt Iron.
DAY 8 QUEENSTOWN.
We ride over the Crown Range to the quaint old gold mining town of Arrowtown. Queenstown offers many exciting activities, such as rafting, jet-boating, a scenic flight, or a lake cruise on the historic SS Earnslaw.
DAY 9 CHRISTCHURCH.
This morning, our tour ends, and we say goodbye after breakfast. You are welcome to join us on our way to Christchurch or stay and spend more time in Queenstown.
What’s included
9 nights accommodation (mostly 3 and 4 star)
9 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 7 dinners
Full minibus support
Experienced guide/ cycle mechanic
Pedaltours souvenir cycle jersey
Daily route directions and coloured maps with profiles
Excellent, well-maintained bikes with pannier/carry bags and helmet included (e-bikes available)