Marlborough and West Coast Cycle

Cycle the alpine passes and coastal rides of the upper South Island

The scenery is just as good as the cycling | Stef Woodward

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ! | Sandra Appleby

Undulating roads are the best! | Carol Prantner

Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki | Stef Woodward

Nothing like a fresh seafood platter | Carol Prantner

Coastal ride on the West Coast | Carol Prantner

Marlborough vineyard | Carol Prantner

The scenery is just as good as the cycling | Stef Woodward

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ! | Sandra Appleby

Undulating roads are the best! | Carol Prantner

Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki | Stef Woodward

Nothing like a fresh seafood platter | Carol Prantner

Coastal ride on the West Coast | Carol Prantner

Marlborough vineyard | Carol Prantner

moderate to challenging

Traveller Rating

Activities

7 day road cycle

Accommodation

6 nights hotel/motel

Meals

3 Dinners
7 Lunches
6 Breakfasts

7 Days$3495NZD

View all pricing

View Inclusions

Trip Code: MBW

Trip highlights

Challenge yourself on this scenic 7 day road cycle adventure at the top of NZ's South Island
Experience one of the best coastal rides in the world which takes us to the amazing geology of Punakaiki and its Pancake Rocks
Relax tired muscles in the hot pools of Hanmer Springs
Cycle over the Southern Alps via the picturesque Rahu Saddle
Travel through beautiful rain forest clad mountains and along scenic river valleys
Discover the beauty of Queen Charlotte Drive as we cycle alongside the Marlborough Sounds
Swim with the dolphins or join a whale watch tour, if operating, in Kaikoura (optional)

Exploring the northern regions of the South Island, this action packed cycling tour is sure to inspire as you cycle past bush clad lakes and tracks, along wild coastlines as well as sample some of New Zealand's very best wines! From Christchurch, you'll cycle towards Hanmer Springs to soak in the outdoor hot pools and experience their therapeutic qualities. Returning to the saddle at Springs Junction, pedal along beech forest lined roads towards the rugged beauty of the 'Wild' West Coast. From here the scenery, not the cycling, will leave you breathless as you head north along the flatter, picturesque landscapes of Lake Poerua, Rotomanu and Moana, nestled between the Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Continue along one of the best coastal rides in the world before encountering the natural blowholes at Punakaiki, the mighty Buller Gorge as well as the serene beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound, stopping to sample the produce at local wineries along the way. As you head back towards Christchurch along the stunning Kaikoura coastline, dotted with fur seals, there is the option to take an early morning whale watching cruise, if operating, to provide a fitting finale to this memorable cycling adventure.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Christchurch to Hanmer Springs

After a pick up from a central Christchurch location, we drive out of the city and start to cycle. The Canterbury Plains are vast and with Hanmer Springs being our objective it's a matter of turning the pedals and watching the road slip by. By late afternoon we arrive at the thermal resort with a chance to soak in the hot pools before dinner. (www.hanmersprings.co.nz). Cycling Distance: up to 60km / 40miles

Meals: L

Day 2
Hanmer Springs to Lake Brunner

This morning the beautiful beech forests of the Lewis Pass beckon. By cycle and coach we gradually climb over the picturesque Lewis and Rahu Saddles, after each climb is a downhill rush with long sweeping corners. On beautifully sealed roads with lush temperate rainforest lining the roadside we ride until we reach the rugged beauty of the West Coast Region. The afternoon sees us finish our ride at a country pub called "Formerly the Blackball Hilton." There is a story to be told over your drinks before we drive to Moana, nestled between the spectacular Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Cycling Distance: morning – up to 45km / 28miles Optional afternoon ride – 30km / 19miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 3
Lake Brunner to Punakaiki

Heading out of Moana, we follow an undulating and winding course through the picturesque Arnold Valley to Stillwater. A flat ride beside the banks of the Grey River takes us out to the coastal township of Greymouth. One of the trips many highlights is the coastal riding as we head along the coast to the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. The riding is pure quality – with enough hills to keep you honest. Cycling Distance: 76km / 47miles

Meals: B,L

Day 4
Punakaiki to St Arnaud

We cycle the sealed roads through the impressive Buller Gorge where the upper gorge landscape provides us with snapshot vistas of the Buller River whose white water attracts many a rafting and kayak enthusiast. There are plenty of photo opportunities on this scenic and gently undulating ride, before we board our coach for a final ride into St Arnaud, nestled in the heartland of the Nelson Lakes National Park. We recommend doing one of the many short walks around nearby Lake Rotoiti. This area is known as a “mainland island” and the results of the pest eradication programme means that the native birdlife is flourishing. Cycling Distance: morning - up to 91km / 57miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 5
St Arnaud to Nelson

Early risers are encouraged to take a walk into the nearby native forest at sunrise to hear the native birds & their “dawn chorus”. From behind St Arnaud we cycle the sealed forestry roads on a long mainly downhill ride towards the coast. We continue along a quiet road beside the beautiful Motueka River and through an area known for growing hops. We enter the township of Motueka and transfer by coach to nearby Nelson where we have time to explore the arts and craft capital of New Zealand. Cycling Distance: up to 97km / 60miles

Meals: B,L

Day 6
Nelson to Kaikoura

By coach we motor over the steep outlying hills to arrive at the start of the beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive, which skirts the Marlborough Sounds into Picton. From here it is a short hop over the hill to Blenheim, NZ’s premier wine producing region. After a great lunch at one of the countries leading wineries, we head south down the dramatic East Coast to reach Kaikoura, home of whale watching and swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. Cycling Distance: 60km / 37miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 7
Kaikoura to Christchurch

For the early risers, an optional chance to view one of the great natural sights as whales surface against the spectacular mountain backdrop of the seaward Kaikoura Mountains (www.whalewatch.co.nz). This is only possible if the operator is running their dawn departure which is not guaranteed. Swimming with or watching dolphins is also highly recommended (www.dolphinencounter.co.nz). Due to the popularity, however, it is essential to make a booking well in advance. Following a late breakfast we head further south cycling some of the great back roads and enjoying the scenery as we eventually return to Christchurch and drop you in the downtown area around 6pm. Cycling Distance: up to 60km / 37miles

Meals: B,L

Inclusions

What's included

Tasty cafe breakfasts (x6), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x3) catered to all dietary requirements
6 nights comfortable hotel/motel/lodge ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
Transport from Christchurch (return)
Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

What's not included

Bike hire (including helmet)
International or domestic flights and taxes
Arrival and departure transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages, other then breakfast
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Optional activities (eg. Whale watching at Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs thermal pools)
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Travel insurance
Visa (if required)

About Your Leader

Our guides are one of our biggest assets and we pride ourselves on their level of quality and high standards. Once the trip reaches 8 people, we provide you with two of our expert guides to maximise your enjoyment and overall experience. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of our guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but our guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Accommodation

Scenic Punakaiki Hotel

This well appointed 4 star hotel is located right on the beachfront with views of the Tasman Sea, Punakaiki Beach and surrounding rainforest. It is located just a few minutes walk from the famous Pancake Rocks. The restaurant and bar have large ocean facing windows and a open fire for cooler days. Offering large ensuite studio rooms with tea and coffee making facilities, some rooms have a small kitchenette.

Motels

Often family run, motels range from 3 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Rooms are spacious, warm and comfortable and they have ensuite bathrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Alpine Lodge St Arnaud

Situated at 640m above sea level in the alpine resort of St Arnaud, this comfortable lodge is nestled amongst the beech forest and towering peaks of the adjacent Nelson Lakes National Park. Comfortable rooms offer mountain views, the kitchen prides itself on producing simple, modern European dishes and there is a cosy restaurant and bar on site.

Bike information

Road Bike

The all-new Avanti Gran Durance 3 is a great do-it-all bike whether you're hitting the pavement or venturing off the beaten track onto trails or gravel routes. The bikes are equipped with Shimano's powerful, smooth and confidence-inspiring GRX 2x11 group-set and hydraulic disc brakes. We've chosen 40mm wide tyres which roll fast on pavement, but will offer grip on multiple surfaces and resist punctures. With drop handlebars, carbon fibre forks, and a relaxed geometry the Gran Durance is sure to be a comfortable ride for people with varying levels of cycling experience on any length cycle tour.

Hybrid Road Bike

These bikes have the same narrower tyres and lightweight frames, only with flat handlebars to give the performance and speed of a road bike. The geometry allows you to sit in a more natural upright riding position that provides the best control of the bike with a well-placed centre of gravity and in a posture that reduces strain on the rider's neck and back.

Electric Bike - Sizes XS, S, M

Our fleet of new Sinch ebikes, made and designed in New Zealand for New Zealand trails, are perfect for cyclists looking to enjoy a little assistance on their travels. Pedalling our ebikes takes away the strain of a traditional bike, particularly on the hills. The powerful Shimano batteries provide up to 100kms of pedal assistance before requiring recharging. The bikes are very simple to operate and they provide people with varying levels of fitness or cycling experience the opportunity to really enjoy our cycling holidays. The extra small, small and medium size bikes have a low step frame making it very easy to get on and off, hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable braking and 80mm of air suspension travel is designed to make every ride comfortable.

Electric Bike - Sizes L & XL

Our fleet of new Sinch ebikes, made and designed in New Zealand for New Zealand trails, are perfect for cyclists looking to enjoy a little assistance on their travels. For our taller guests, large and extra large ebikes have a high cross bar, 120mm of front suspension travel and hydraulic disc brakes to ensure effective braking and a comfortable ride.

Tandem Bike

Our tandem bikes for road cycling tours are ideal for experienced cycle partners to enjoy the journey together. The riding position on our tandems is similar to being on a mountain bike but we fit road tyres to make them perfect for the sealed roads. For bicycle specifications please contact us.

Grading

moderate to challenging
4

To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the terrain, the altitude, the amount of climbing, the types of roads and the length of the trip. The Marlborough & West Coast Cycle is graded moderate to challenging. You will need to be a competent road rider with stamina and a good level of fitness, you should be able to cycle comfortably for up to 6-8 hours or around 100km/60miles per day, day after day, with some extended uphill ascents. There are some long days and some steep sections. You should be confident riding on main roads alongside traffic which can be travelling at speed. This tour is not for beginners. The tour is fully supported and if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle.

Departure dates

Notes

Holiday Season

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$3495NZD

Options & Supplements*

Road Bike RentalNZD$350
Ebike RentalNZD$600
Single SupplementNZD$795

*Prices listed are per person

Essential information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Marlborough and West Coast Cycle trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.