Why is Alps 2 Ocean on every cyclist’s bucket list? The reason is as crystal-clear as the countless lakes we’ll encounter while crossing it. First of all, it begins with a helicopter ride. But what comes next is even better—a week-long, 200-mile ride from Mt Cook all the way to crashing Pacific waves. Pretty cool, right? We’ll ride in a small group, pedaling past snow-capped peaks, across vast tussock lands, and above stunning rivers. Screensaver-worthy vistas await at every bend, as well as perfect accommodations after each day’s ride. But the adventure keeps on rolling—we’ll also enjoy wine tastings, soak in hot tubs, and eat some mouthwatering food every day. This is a fully-supported, pedal-powered, and, above all else, joy-packed exploration of New Zealand that will fuel your wanderlust for years to come.
Prepare for a week-long cycling showcasing the diverse landscapes of the South Island in New Zealand. This fully-supported journey from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean features a thrilling helicopter ride, top-notch accommodations, all meals, and a support vehicle driven by your guide. Enjoy awesome rides, discover historic sites, and connect with fellow enthusiasts from around the globe—all against the backdrop of the region's awe-inspiring natural beauty. This all-inclusive journey is tailored for those in pursuit of an unforgettable cycling adventure without any logistical concerns.
You will be picked up in Christchurch around 7:45 a.m. for the drive to Lake Tekapo. The journey can take up to 3 hours. We will stop for lunch in Tekapo. After lunch there is a short van ride to the Tekapo canal, we will get you on your bikes and ride along the hydro canals to Lake Pukaki. Once we leave the lake, we head directly to Twizel across the Pukaki Flats. Tonight, we will host you and prepare your food.
Meals: Dinner
Cycling: 40 km (25 mi)
Accommodation: Motel, lodge, or B&B in Twizel
A short ride to the airport allows us to test the bikes before we fly by helicopter over to the remote part of the section and ride along Lake Pukaki to Twizel. Following the turquoise blue lake along gravel roads and a smooth cycle trail, we head away from Aoraki/Mt Cook, stopping to soak up the magnificent scenery. Once we leave the lake, we head directly across the Pukaki Flats. Tonight, we stay in Twizel and dine at Poppies Restaurant.
Departing from Twizel, we enjoy the sealed road to the Ohau Canal below Ben Ohau to join Lake Ohau. The cycle trail around the lake is stunning and smooth as we head up the side of Lake Ohau to the lodge for the evening. We use the hot tubs to soak our muscles and relax at the bar before tasting the lodge’s high-country dining.
After breakfast, we ride to the highest point of the trail, Tarnbrae Point. The gentle gradient gains 350m and offers amazing vistas over the Mackenzie Basin. We are careful with our speed as we descend to Quailburn. From there, a quiet gravel road and cycle trail take us to Omarama. A visit to the Omarama Hot Tubs is included to relax any sore muscles. We stay at the well-appointed Sierra Motels and dine at The Pink Glider Cafe.
From Omarama, the scenery changes, highlighting how the region and its water catchment were used for the Waitaki Hydro-Electric Scheme. Heading for our next stop at Kurow, we cycle past Lakes Benmore, Aviemore, and Waitaki. The trail varies from smooth shingle to sealed roads. The new Sailors Cutting trail takes us along the Ahuriri Gorge and to the top of the Benmore Dam—a trail highlight. This evening includes wine tasting at Ostler Wines followed by dining at Wild Sage Cafe.
Departing from Kurow toward Duntroon, we get a few glances of the mighty Waitaki River. This part of the trail goes past the wetlands, an interesting community project that has rejuvenated the area. We exit into the small settlement of Duntroon and head onto quiet roads and cycle trails, passing Elephant Rocks and riding through Rakis Tunnel. Our evening stop is at The Old School in Enfield, with dinner at the Enfield Tavern to experience southern hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 65 km (40 mi)
Accommodation: The Old School, Enfield
Today, after our stay at The Old School, we ride the short section to Oamaru. Cycling through the town, we see many Victorian buildings and get a feel for its history. We ride to the end of the trail at the harbour to celebrate the end of the journey. We go to Scott’s Brewery for a celebratory lunch and beers, then have free time to explore the unique character of Oamaru before being shuttled back to our pick-up point.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Cycling: 15 km (9 mi)
Included:
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
Not included:
To fully enjoy this fully-supported Alps to Ocean cycling trip in New Zealand’s South Island, a great fitness is essential.
If you’re opting for a (or bringing your own) mountain bike, please ensure you’re an expert rider with peak fitness, as you’ll be tackling over 50 km of gravel daily. Keep in mind that this trail is significantly more demanding on a non-electric bike, so if that’s not you, we recommend opting for an e-bike instead.
The most you’ll cycle within a day is 67 km (42 mi).
The terrain varies along the route, with most sections on sealed roads and smooth shingle—making for relatively easy riding. However, other segments consist of rough shingle, and, rarely, dirt and grass roads, which can make for uneven terrain. Additionally, you’ll encounter more challenging and technical sections, featuring narrower tracks with switchbacks and occasional exposure.
In preparation for this Alps to Ocean bike tour, we recommend dedicating 90 minutes to cycling three to five times a week for at least three months leading up to your trip. This practice will help you build the endurance and stamina required for the journey. There are ample hills to climb, so it’s advisable to practice cycling uphill and on rougher terrain before your tour to ensure you fully appreciate the fantastic riding and diverse scenery.
Here’s what you’ll need:
The ideal months for travel, from January to early May, bring temperatures ranging from 50°F to 86°F (10°C to 30°C) on the South Island, along with a comfortable humidity level of 40-50%. However, keep in mind that higher altitudes can be significantly cooler, and snowfall is possible even in summer.
Additionally, there are occasional hot, dry, and fierce winds during the summer months. While you won’t need a full winter wardrobe, since you will be riding at higher elevations, packing a good waterproof jacket and some thin and lightweight warm clothing (including a fleece or jumper and quality thermals) will ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected changes in temperature and weather conditions during your tour.
Mountain bike and helmet are included in the price of the Alps to Ocean bike trip. However, if you want a less strenuous experience, you can rent an e-biking upon checkout.
With rentals, you get a small top tube bag for your phone, wallet, and lip balm, and an expendable seat post bag to carry your wet weather clothes, spare layer, etc.
Group sizes and prices:
Cycling the Alps to Ocean Trail in New Zealand can be arranged for private groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Alps 2 Ocean adventure is Christchurch at around 7:45 am on Day 1. The nearest airport is Christchurch Airport (CHC).
Participants should arrive a day prior to the cycling adventure (Day 1 in the itinerary) as the journey kicks off early in the morning. Arriving a day in advance is crucial as it provides you with the opportunity to relax and ensures a seamless and stress-free start to your experience.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
