- Overview
- Trip Outline
The dramatic beauty of New Zealand transcends the imagination—as you’ll see when you experience it up close as only an active vacation allows. Our carefully curated bike routes follow untamed seacoast, valleys framed by towering peaks, and woodland trails through the breathtaking South Island. On foot, you’ll explore a wildlife sanctuary, a moving glacier, the winding shores of a glittering lake, and historic gold-mining sites. You’ll also touch Kiwi history in pioneer towns and spend a day at a wilderness resort, with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and more. A home-cooked meal in a local town hall and exclusive visits to a working ranch and wine estate add a personal touch to this quintessential New Zealand bike and walk tour.
Most of the rides and all the walks on this tour are on specially paved trails (the Kiwis invented this!). The trails are graveled, regularly maintained, away from automobile traffic, and provide access to the beauty of the country. The roads we ride are secondary, quiet, and mostly paved. The VBT Auxiliary van is available for lead, catch-up, or a shorter version.
Tour Highlights
- Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
- Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
- Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
- Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
- Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate
Itinerary
Shipment from the U.S. or Canada
2. In flight to Christchurch.
3. Arrival in Christchurch
4. VBT Bike and Walk Vacation Starts / Christchurch / Warm-up
5. Cross the Southern Alps by train / Bike to the Sea / Hokitika
6. Ride the West Coast Wilderness Trail / Dine under the crowns of ancient trees Rimu
7. Discover the Franz Josef Glacier / stroll along the Ocarito Lagoon
8. Fox Village / Lake Matheson / Bike to Gillespie Beach
9. Explore Lake Moeraki
10. Mount Aspiring National Park / Blue Pools / Javea River Trail / Track Outlet / Wanaka
11. Glendhu Bay / Visit High Country Station / Wine tasting
12. Arrowtown / VBT Bike and Walk Vacation ends / Departure home or start extension after ride
Related Trips
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Cycling Tours of South Africa
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