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Cycling the Iconic Alps to Ocean Trail, New Zealand

7 days | Moderate | 5.00
From $2,736 ()
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While bucket-list adventures are mostly subjective, the Alps to Ocean Trail objectively deserves its place on the list. What else could a thrilling 200-mile cycling journey showcasing the best of the South Island be? It kicks off with a helicopter ride, setting the tone for the epic journey ahead—from the towering Mt Cook to the crushing Pacific waves. Glide through picturesque tussock-lands framed by snow-capped peaks, trace the shores of countless lakes, and follow the meandering paths of braided rivers. Journey through idyllic vineyards, wander Oamaru’s charming Victorian-era streets, and rest in magnificent lodgings. This all-inclusive adventure immerses you in New Zealand’s dreamscapes, crafting memories to cherish for years to come.

Will
Will

Adventure Highlights

  • World-famous trail: Follow a 200-mile cycling trail from the Southern Alps to the Pacific, experiencing the best of NZ’s South Island
  • All-inclusive experience: From a helicopter ride to vehicle support, accommodations and meals, this tour takes care of all the details
  • Beyond cycling: Explore Oamaru's Victorian-era streets, sample wines in picturesque vineyards, relish delectable meals and enjoy great company
Duration
7 days
Season
November through April
Group size
Up to 12 people
Accommodation
Comfort: Glamping, cottages, hotels, motels, & more
Difficulty
Moderate: Good fitness required, cycling 37 miles (60 km) per day on average
What's included
Guide, lodging, all meals, snacks & drinks, heli flight, transfers, support vehicle, & more

The adventure, day by day

Get ready for a week of cycling through New Zealand's stunning South Island, from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. This fully-supported journey includes a thrilling helicopter ride, comfortable and scenic accommodations, delicious meals, and a dedicated support vehicle. Pedal through diverse landscapes, explore historic sites, meet awesome people from all over the world, all while savoring the natural beauty of the region. An all-inclusive experience, perfect for those seeking an unforgettable cycling adventure without the logistical hassle.

Day 1: Queenstown to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village
Glacial landscapes in UNESCO-protected Aori/Mt Cook National Park, NZ.

We are collected from Queenstown in the morning, circa 8 am, and head to Arrowtown for a warm-up ride. Our route follows the Arrow River trail, crossing impressive bridges to the historic Kawarau Bridge. We then drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, the official start of the trail. There is time to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre or take a walk on the Tasman Glacier Track for stunning mountain views before our first group dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Cycling: 14 km (9 mi)
Hiking: up to 10 km (6 mi)
Accommodation: Aoraki Alpine Lodge, Mt Cook

Day 2: Aoraki/Mt Cook Village to Braemar Station
Pukaki lake reflecting the snow-capped Mt Cook, New Zealand’s South Island.

After exploring the village, we cycle to the airport for a short but breathtaking helicopter flight across the Tasman River to meet the trail. We ride along the edge of Lake Pukaki, taking in views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. After a picnic lunch, we continue to Braemar Station, a backcountry farmstay. This location is a highlight, rewarding us with fantastic views over the lake and a delicious home-cooked dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 38 km (24 mi)
Accommodation: Braemar Station, Lake Pukaki (shared bathrooms)

Day 3: Braemar Station to Lake Ohau
Cyclists in front of Lake Oahu Lodge

We leave Braemar Station and wind around the edge of Lake Pukaki, crossing the extensive tussock lands of the Pukaki flats to Twizel. After lunch, we cycle alongside the Pukaki and Ohau canals, moving onto Lake Ohau and the Lake Ohau Lodge. The evening offers time to unwind and soak in the onsite hot tubs overlooking the lake.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 80 km (50 mi)
Accommodation: Lake Ohau Lodge
Day 4: Lake Ohau to Omarama
Waitaki valley in NZ’s South Island with braided rivers and vineyards, one of the areas through which the Alps to Ocean cycle trail passes.

Those seeking a challenge climb the Tarnbrae Saddle, the high point of the trail at 900m, offering stunning views across the Mackenzie Basin. The rough shingle track is suited for confident riders. Alternatively, we can transfer by coach for a relaxing afternoon or enjoy a mostly downhill ride from Quailburn into Omarama. We end the day in the “Place of Light,” famous for its clear skies and gliding.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 44 km (27 mi) (Short option: 26 km / 16 mi)
Accommodation: Sierra Motel

Day 5: Omarama to Kurow
Benmore lake at the foot of the mountains, New Zealand.

We follow the trail along Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting, winding around rocky outcrops and secluded beaches. The trail drops down from the Benmore Dam to rejoin the lakeside road. There is an easier option to avoid technical sections if preferred. We enjoy a fun downhill cycle toward Aviemore Dam for a picnic, then ride into Kurow. Tonight we stay in luxurious glamping tents with private balconies and king-sized beds.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 74 km (46 mi)
Accommodation: Valley Views Glamping, Kurow (shared bathrooms)

Day 6: Kurow to Oamaru
Curious rock formations, Elephant Rocks, in New Zealand.

We ride toward the Pacific Ocean, passing Maori rock art sites and the unusual Elephant Rocks near Duntroon. Following an old railway line, we cycle through Raki’s tunnel and picturesque rural countryside. We pass the Oamaru stone quarry before reaching Friendly Bay, the official end of the trail. We celebrate our achievement with a group photo and a final dinner in the historic Victorian precinct.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 77 km (48 mi)
Accommodation: Poshtel, Oamaru
Day 7: Oamaru to Christchurch
A Gothic Revival church in the city of Oamaru, New Zealand.

We spend the morning exploring the white-stone township of Oamaru, browsing the galleries and shops of the Victorian Precinct or visiting the Steampunk Museum. In the afternoon, we travel back to Christchurch, passing through the rich agricultural regions of the Canterbury Plains. We arrive in Christchurch around 3 pm, where our tour concludes.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Photo gallery

Lodging & food

Adventure, packed to go

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Heather
5.00
Heather
Heather is a 5th generation kiwi from Christchurch and grew up on the family farm enjoying the foothills, lakes & Southern Alps of the South Island. She enjoys all of the outdoor activities Kiwis love, including skiing, hiking, biking, boating and horse riding. Heather loves sharing her backyard with like minded people.
Eli
5.00
Eli
Originally from Northland, Eli now calls Queenstown home. After starting out in the engineering industry, he has spent the past three years working in adventure tourism. Passionate about sharing the outdoors, Eli enjoys helping others discover new challenges and experiences. In his spare time, he’s often bikepacking around NZ, trail running in the mountains, or climbing big rocks.
Bryan
5.00
Bryan
Bryan’s outdoor experiences started with tramping over 50 years ago and progressed into multi-sport. He completed the Coast to Coast five times in the late 1980's. After having a family, Bryan got back into road cycling and mountain biking. Racing gave way to bike packing for the 2016 Tour Aotearoa and he has been exploring the NZ trails and back roads since then. He managed to fit outdoor activities around a career as a Quantity Surveyor and celebrated reaching retirement age in 2024 with a 2.5-month cycle tour through the USA and Canada. Bryan loves encouraging people into the outdoors and to ride bikes.
Will
5.00
Will
After managing a bike store in Auckland for 8 years Will took a career change into adventure tourism, starting work as a guide in 2018. In guiding he found a true passion in helping to create amazing experiences for his guests. Will currently resides in Japan where he works together with his wife, running tours and helping to develop adventure tourism in the region where they live. He returns to NZ in the summer to guide, adventure and get his fix of fish n chips!
Steven
5.00
Steven
A proud Kiwi, Steven is lucky enough to call the pristine waters and alluring habitat of the Abel Tasman his backyard. His lifelong passion for the outdoors inspired him to study adventure tourism, leading to a career as a kayak and hiking guide across both New Zealand and Norway. Steven thrives in challenging environments and loves meeting new people—nothing makes him happier than seeing his guests with a smile on their faces.
Robbie
5.00
Robbie
Robbie was brought up on a sheep and cattle farm South of Auckland and grew up spending her weekends outdoors building huts and catching eels. She spent nearly 30 years in the clothing industry and has travelled the world extensively. Robbie competed and crewed in multi-sport and adventure races. She really embraced a love of cycling over the last 15 years travelling within NZ and overseas on numerous occasions to race, ride, guide, bike-pack and explore what is on offer.
Mike
5.00
Mike
Mike has spent many years discovering the natural beauty of New Zealand, enjoying our wilderness on foot, by bike, and even on horseback. His adventures have been shared with family and school groups alike, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Now, Mike is thrilled to share the experience of the great outdoors with you, the amazing trails in our backyard are a pure joy to ride and walk, and they are even better when enjoyed with good company!
Jude
5.00
Jude
Jude owned two Pita Pit stores in Palmerston North for 10 years and sold them in 2021 to pursue her passion for the outdoors. She has biked the Camino de santiago, Vietnam, the Netherlands and most of the NZ Cycle Trails. Jude purchased a Camper Van in 2021 and travelled NZ for 12 months. In 2022 Jude biked Cape Reinga to Bluff to raise funds for Diabetes NZ.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (10 reviews)
L
Loren H.
|January 2026
The ride met all of our expectations. Great experience.
J
Jean L.
|December 2025
We loved it. Would recommend it. The rating should not be easy to moderate 80km against the wind is not easy. The rating should be moderate to difficult. I felt this was misleading which lead to my husband getting a regular bike. He would gave been better off on an e-bike.
P
Petro J.
|April 2025
An absolute must for your bucket list. You need to experience the beauty of New Zealand - magical. Pedalling up and down mountains were fun. The beauty that awaited one at the top was absolutely worth it.
5.00(10 reviews)
L
Loren H.
|January 2026
The ride met all of our expectations. Great experience.
J
Jean L.
|December 2025
We loved it. Would recommend it. The rating should not be easy to moderate 80km against the wind is not easy. The rating should be moderate to difficult. I felt this was misleading which lead to my husband getting a regular bike. He would gave been better off on an e-bike.
P
Petro J.
|April 2025
An absolute must for your bucket list. You need to experience the beauty of New Zealand - magical. Pedalling up and down mountains were fun. The beauty that awaited one at the top was absolutely worth it.
P
Paul B

My recent Alps to Ocean adventure was so much more than I had expected. The communication beforehand made everything clear, the guides went above and beyond my expectations, the accommodation was fantastic and all the little things (daily briefings, morning teas, helpful assistance for those unfamiliar with an e-bike etc) made the ride so much more enjoyable. I would encourage anyone thinking about riding the Alps to Ocean, or tackling any of the other adventures the guides, to make contact with them and to embrace the opportunity.

J
Jill Valmadre

What a wonderful trip we had. The guides were an amazing group to travel with, our leaders were so helpful, fun and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend them. Nothing was too much trouble, the food and accommodations were all spot on. And the ride was, well, breathtaking. Thoroughly enjoyed it, thank you. We will be back.

S
Sarah McVey

Jono and Martin were exceptional tour guides for the Alps to Ocean trip. My mom, dad, sister, and I had a fantastic experience while taking in the breathtaking New Zealand views alongside kind-hearted group members. I really enjoyed getting to converse with members of the group and our trip leaders through shared meals, and the glamping accommodation was definitely a highlight. We’ll be back for another trip (hopefully very soon)! Thank you for making our vacation so fun and memorable!

J
JENNIFER MONCUR

Alps to Ocean was a fabulous experience and exceeded my expectations. Hosts Pete and Richard could not have done more to make our trip fun, informed, seamless and well fed. Accomodation varied but was always clean, centrally located and more than adequate. Burnside Homestead on the last night was a standout! I had dietary allergies and there was no problem providing for my needs. The bikes were fabulous! I wish the Sinch bikes were available in Australia. Some of the riding was a step up from what I was expecting, but I enjoyed the challenge. I went as an older solo traveller and immediately felt part of the group. Looking forward to my trip next March 🙂

R
Ross & Joann Dunn

We recently did the Alps 2 Ocean bike ride and had the best time. Guides had everything organised, with a great variety of accommodation, great food, bikes were in great condition and even provided perfect weather. Our guides Sue & Alex were fantastic, nothing was too difficult for them to handle. Our group of 12 were a lot of fun. Lots of laughs during the day when riding. The scenery was to die for, with each day giving us a new challenge.

C
Corey Yeatman

Rode the Alps to Ocean Classic a couple of weeks ago with 6 other people. We all had a fantastic time, saw some awesome scenery (had to remember to look up sometimes!), and was a great time to go as it was really quiet. I used an ordinary mountain bike and found it a good challenge with a moderate level of fitness. Fiona (our tour operator) was very well organised and made the whole trip enjoyable and memorable.

V
Virginia W.

The itinerary led through beautiful country with great accommodation and great food. The support from the guides was excellent. I found the riding very challenging as I haven’t done a lot of trail cycling before and questioned whether I would have done it if I’d known how hard it was. However the guides were so supportive and encouraging and gave good advice and I’m glad to have finished it.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced cycling guide or guides with extensive local knowledge of the area
      • 7-day Alps to Ocean cycling adventure
      • Accommodation for 6 nights (double occupancy)
        • 4 nights in hotels/motels (ensuite)
        • 1 night farmstay, 1 night glamping (shared bathrooms)
      • All meals during the tour catered to all dietary requirements
        • Tasty breakfasts (x6)
        • Gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x6)
        • Two-course restaurant dinners (x6)
      • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks, and treats
      • Heli-flight across the Tasman River with bikes to the official start point
      • Transport from Queenstown to Christchurch
      • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
      • Pre-departure information kit
      • Concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation
      • Rider fees paid to the A2O Trail Trust for ongoing maintenance and improvements

    Add-ons (add at checkout):

      • Bike rental
      • Single occupancy room

    Not included:

      • International or domestic flights and taxes
      • Arrival and departure transfers
      • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
      • All beverages, other than breakfast
      • Bike hire (including helmet)
      • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
      • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
      • Visa (if required)
      • Optional activities (e.g. Omarama hot tubs, Steampunk Gallery, etc.)
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  • To fully enjoy this guided Alps to Ocean cycling trip in New Zealand’s South Island, good fitness is essential. The journey is graded as moderate, with an average daily distance of approximately 37 miles (60 km), and the longest day spanning up to 50 miles (80 km).

    Some sections are on sealed roads or hard-packed gravel, while others involve looser gravel and narrower tracks. Less confident riders can choose to skip technical sections using the support vehicle.

    Check out the itinerary for day-by-day distances.

    Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more New Zealand bike adventures here!

  • In preparation for this adventure, 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 conquer, 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.

  • Some of the sections are on seal or hard packed gravel and are relatively easy to ride. Other sections are on looser gravel which can be rough and uneven in places. The moderate sections over the Tarnbrae Saddle and from Sailors Cutting to the Benmore Dam include narrower tracks with some switchbacks and exposure in places. There are also plenty of hills so cycling up hills and on gravel and rougher terrain before your tour will enable you to really enjoy the fantastic riding and diverse scenery.

  • The tour is fully supported so you won’t have to carry anything. If hiring one of our bikes, it will have a rear saddle bag with enough space to put an extra layer, your camera, wallet, phone etc. We recommend you pack your luggage in a soft sports bag for easy stowing in the trailer/ vehicle. We urge you to keep your luggage to a minimum. If you have extra luggage you do not require for your holiday, we can arrange to store it until the end of the trip.

    Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Bike & helmet — bike rental available
      • Comfortable biking clothes
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Sneakers or sport shoes
      • Breathable outside layer or jacket
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • Fleece
      • Quality thermal wear
      • Casual clothes and sneakers for when you’re not cycling
      • Sunhat
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Biking gloves
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

  • Yes — bike rental is available, with several high-quality options to match different riding styles, comfort needs, and experience levels.

    Mountain bikes (non-e-bike):

      • Avanti Discovery – Hardtail Mountain Bike — A simple, solid, and comfortable hardtail built for mixed terrain. It features front suspension, fast-rolling tyres, a 1×10 drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable control. A rear rack with a rack bag (included) makes it easy to carry layers, lunch, or a camera. Available in multiple frame sizes (exact sizing subject to availability).
      • Avanti Discovery – Low-Step Hardtail Mountain Bike — The same dependable setup as the standard Avanti Discovery, with a low-step frame for easier mounting and a more accessible feel. It offers a relaxed upright riding position, front suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes—ideal for riders prioritising comfort. Available in multiple frame sizes (subject to availability).

    E-bikes:

      • Sinch e-bike – front suspension (mountain bike style) — Designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, these pedal-assist eBikes smooth out hills and longer days thanks to reliable Shimano motor systems. They feature front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable upright riding position. Available in sizes L and XL.
      • Sinch e-bikes – step-through options — These models offer the same pedal-assist support and trail-ready setup, with step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture. Available in sizes XS, S, and M, with L and XL step-through options available on request.

    Premium e-bike:

      • Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ (subject to availability) — Our premium option for riders wanting maximum comfort and capability. This full-suspension eBike features a powerful Shimano motor, long-lasting battery, and relaxed geometry that flattens climbs and smooths rough terrain. Integrated lights, mudguards, and a rack make it ideal for multi-day touring. Available in selected sizes (subject to availability).

    If you’re unsure which bike is best for you, we’re happy to help match you with the right setup based on height, experience, and riding style.

  • Group sizes and prices:

      • For this Alps 2 Ocean cycling journey, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 7:1.
      • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
      • Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

    Alps to Ocean Trail cycling in New Zealand can be arranged for bigger and private groups. Contact us prior to booking.

    Min. age requirements:

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Children as young as 10 are able to go on trips with a legal guardian. That said, if you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis.

    If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The price for this Alps 2 Ocean tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

  • To get to Queenstown, most people fly into Queenstown Airport. You will meet your guide and fellow cyclists at a central location in the city at 8.00 am on Day 1.

    We recommend arriving a day prior to the cycling adventure as our journey kicks off right after this initial gathering. Arriving a day in advance provides you with the opportunity to relax and ensures a seamless and stress-free start to your experience.

    Please keep in mind that the adventure finishes in Christchurch in the late afternoon on the last day. We advise against booking an international flight immediately after the tour, as there’s a considerable risk of missing your flight should your group’s arrival in the city be delayed. We highly recommend arranging accommodation in Christchurch following the adventure.

  • 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

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
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