There was an error with your log in
Lake Wanaka cycling tour

Great West Coast Cycling Journey: Christchurch to Queenstown

8 days | Moderate to Challenging | 5.00
From $3,088 ()
Book a call

Get ready to spin your wheels on New Zealand’s legendary Great West Coast Cycle—an epic 8-day journey spanning over 300 miles! Ranked among the world’s top five cycle touring routes, this adventure is a rollercoaster through high alpine passes, lakes galore, snow-capped peaks, lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and awe-inspiring glaciers. With daily rides pushing up to 80 miles, it’s the ultimate pedal-powered test of your endurance. Beyond the bike, hop aboard the TranzAlpine Express for a scenic train ride, live it up at Franz Josef Glacier, and groove to the laid-back vibes of Wanaka. Join a squad of intrepid explorers and saddle up for a quest to unveil the hidden wonders of New Zealand’s untamed wilderness.

Eli
Eli

Adventure Highlights

  • A must-do route: Embark on the ultimate adventure spanning over 300 miles and showcasing epic New Zealand landscapes
  • Land of contrasts: Cycle from lush rainforests and glacial landscapes to dramatic coastlines and serene lakes
  • Effortless logistics: From accommodations, meals, and vehicle support, everything is taken care of so you can focus on the ride
Duration
8 days
Season
November through April
Group size
Up to 14 people
Accommodation
Comfort: Comfortable hotels & motels
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging: Excellent fitness required, cycling up to 75 mi (120 km) per day & gaining up to 3,538 ft (1,024 m) in elevation
What's included
Guide, lodging, all meals, snacks & drinks, train ticket, support vehicle, & more

The adventure, day by day

Embark on an epic 8-day cycling adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown, tracing New Zealand's famed Great West Coast cycle route. Ride up to 75 miles daily through stunning and ever changing landscapes of the South Island. Your path is guided by experienced experts who handle the logistics while you focus on the ride. Along the way, savor local flavors, enjoy comfortable accommodations, and take in the scenic TranzAlpine train ride. With full vehicle support and more, it's an all-inclusive cycling odyssey to remember.

Day 1: Christchurch to Punakaiki
Pancake Rocks on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

We meet in central Christchurch (Cathedral Junction at 7:15 am) and board the TranzAlpine train for a scenic journey across the Southern Alps to Lake Brunner. After lunch on the train, we start riding through the Arnold Valley to the coast at Greymouth. The highlight of the day is the coastal ride north to Punakaiki, featuring rolling hills, lush rainforest, and stunning ocean views. We end the day with a walk to the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes before our welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Cycling: 75 km (47 mi)
Elevation: +651 m (+2135 ft)
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
Day 2: Punakaiki to Franz Josef Glacier
Famous Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand, seen while on the Great West Coast cycle trail.

We transfer south this morning, stopping briefly in Hokitika to see the greenstone workshops. Our ride begins at the Waitaha River, taking us through towering podocarp rainforests and across mighty West Coast rivers. We pass through historic settlements like Harihari and Whataroa before reaching the glacier country. We settle into Franz Josef township, our base for the next two nights, surrounded by mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Cycling: 90 km (56 mi) (Shorter option: 63 km / 39 mi)
Elevation: +944 m (+3096 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Franz Josef
Day 3: Franz Josef Glacier
Cyclists going for a short hike at Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand.

Today is a rest day from the saddle to explore the glacier region. Options include relaxing in hot pools, taking a guided walk, or enjoying a scenic helicopter flight to land on the snowfields (own expense). For those wanting to stay active, there is sea kayaking available at Okarito Lagoon. It is a perfect chance to recharge the legs before the climbing ahead.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Franz Josef

Day 4: Franz Josef Glacier to Fox Glacier
Lake Matheson with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island.

The morning is flexible for any final activities in Franz Josef. In the afternoon, we tackle a short but intense ride to Fox Glacier. While only 25 km, the route crosses three strenuous passes, each rewarding us with exhilarating downhills. We finish the ride at a local café in Fox Glacier village. In the evening, we take a walk around Lake Matheson to catch the famous reflection of Aoraki/Mt Cook at sunset.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Cycling: 25 km (16 mi)
Elevation: +643 m (+2109 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Fox Glacier
Day 5: Fox Glacier to Haast
Moeraki lake, surrounded by a rainforest in New Zealand’s South Island, seen while on the Great West Coast cycle trail.

We head south on lovely flat roads, reaching the coast at Bruce Bay before turning inland past Lake Moeraki. The route returns to the dramatic coastline at Knights Point, offering sweeping Tasman Sea views. We cross the longest one-lane bridge in New Zealand over the Haast River to reach the township of Haast, our final stop on the West Coast.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 120 km (75 mi) (Shorter option: 72 km / 45 mi)
Elevation: +1024 m (+3358 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Haast
Day 6: Haast to Makarora
A river in New Zealand with the Southern Alps in the distance, seen while on the Great West Coast cycle trail.

Today brings a major cycling highlight: the Haast Pass. The road rises gradually through the Clark Valley, flanked by waterfalls and changing from lush rainforest to beech forest. A final serious climb takes us to the summit at 678m. From the top, we enjoy a thrilling 20 km descent into the Makarora Valley. We end the day in the beautiful township of Makarora, located within Mount Aspiring National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 80 km (51 mi)
Elevation: +1247 m (+4090 ft)
Accommodation: Rustic accommodation in Makarora
Day 7: Makarora to Wanaka
A road used for cycling along the shores of lake Wanaka in New Zealand.

The landscape changes dramatically as we enter the drier eastern side of the divide. We cycle alongside the spectacular glacial lakes of Wanaka and Hawea, rolling down into the Otago valleys. After a lunch stop on the Hawea lakefront, we transfer briefly to the resort town of Wanaka. The afternoon is free to shop or relax by the lake before our final celebratory dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 50 km (31 mi)
Elevation: +646 m (+2118 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Wanaka
Day 8: Wanaka to Queenstown
The idyllic settlement of Arrowtown at the foot of the Southern Alps’ peaks in New Zealand’s South Island.

Our final ride follows the lakefront to Glendhu Bay, a local favorite for its mountain views. We return to ride across the historic Luggate Red Bridge and finish at a boutique vineyard for a platter lunch and wine tasting. Afterward, we transfer through the Kawarau Gorge to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, where our tour concludes.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Cycling: Up to 59 km (37 mi)
Elevation: +514 m (+1685 ft)

Photo gallery

Lodging & food

Adventure, packed to go

Adventure brochure
Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.
Download now

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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (4 reviews)
D
Dennis Voulopos

Loved every moment of the tour! I did the Marlborough & West Coast cycle ride and it was a blast, not only the riding but the hotels and restaurants that were part of the package were excellent. Our guide, Peter was amazing, always available, helping, and giving more then expected. He gave us lessons on the area, the animals, birds and offered extra biking and walks. Healthy snacks were provided along with tea stops in the morning. The rental bike was very nice but could have used a few more gears. Highly recommended!

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 wines and accommodations were all spot on. And the ride was, well, breathtaking. Thoroughly enjoyed it, thank you. We will be back.

L
Linda McKindley

I had an amazing time. I did both the South Lakes and the West Coast Cycle tours. The guides were very knowledgeable and changed routes as needed to keep us safe. They did everything they could to keep everyone happy. If you want to do a cycling or hiking tour look no further. They are a New Zealand company with guides that live in New Zealand.

5.00(4 reviews)
D
Dennis Voulopos

Loved every moment of the tour! I did the Marlborough & West Coast cycle ride and it was a blast, not only the riding but the hotels and restaurants that were part of the package were excellent. Our guide, Peter was amazing, always available, helping, and giving more then expected. He gave us lessons on the area, the animals, birds and offered extra biking and walks. Healthy snacks were provided along with tea stops in the morning. The rental bike was very nice but could have used a few more gears. Highly recommended!

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 wines and accommodations were all spot on. And the ride was, well, breathtaking. Thoroughly enjoyed it, thank you. We will be back.

L
Linda McKindley

I had an amazing time. I did both the South Lakes and the West Coast Cycle tours. The guides were very knowledgeable and changed routes as needed to keep us safe. They did everything they could to keep everyone happy. If you want to do a cycling or hiking tour look no further. They are a New Zealand company with guides that live in New Zealand.

r
rebecca dick

Excellent organization to bike with. Wonderful guides, routes and accomadation, everything taken care of.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • Experienced cycling guides with extensive local knowledge of the area
      • 8-day Great West Coast cycling adventure
      • Accommodation for 7 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels/motels (double occupancy)
      • All meals during the tour catered to all dietary requirements
        • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x7)
        • Gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x5)
        • Two-course restaurant dinners (x5)
      • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
      • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks, treats, and morning and afternoon teas
      • TranzAlpine train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth
      • Transport from Christchurch to Queenstown
      • Pre-departure information kit
      • Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

    Add-ons (can be added 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. scenic flights, sea kayaking, etc.)
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  • The Great West Coast Cycle is graded moderate to challenging. You should be a competent road rider with high stamina and a solid level of fitness. Specifically, you should be able to cycle comfortably for 6–8 hours (or around 80km/50 miles) per day, multiple days in a row, including extended uphill ascents.

    Expect some long days and steep sections. You must be confident riding on main roads alongside traffic traveling at speed; consequently, this tour is not for beginners. However, the tour is fully supported—if you need a break at any stage, the support vehicle is always available for you to hop in and rest.

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

  • 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.

    Road bike (non e-bike):

      • Avanti Gran Durance 3 — A bike built for the diverse surfaces of New Zealand’s open roads. It’s a lightweight, fast machine kitted out with a Shimano GRX 2×11 groupset, hydraulic disc brakes, and carbon forks for a smooth, responsive ride. Your guides have chosen this model because the 32mm tires and relaxed frame geometry strike the perfect balance between speed and comfort, making it an ideal choice for all-day performance on our classic road tours.

    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.

    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.

  • The price for this Great West Coast cycling 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.

  • Group sizes and prices:

      • For this Great West Coast cycling tour, 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 14 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.

    The Great West Coast Cycle 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 Great West Coast cycling 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 Christchurch, the starting point of the tour, most people fly into Christchurch Airport. You will meet your guide(s) and fellow cyclists at Cathedral Junction at 7.15 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.

  • 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.
Have more questions?
Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.
Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.
Talk to an Adventure Planner
From $3,088 ()
Saved to bucket list
Removed from bucket list

Choose a currency

  • USD - $
    US Dollar
  • EUR - €
    Euro
  • AUD - AU$
    Australian Dollar
  • CAD - CA$
    Canadian Dollar
  • GBP - £
    British Pound Sterling
  • CHF - CHF
    Swiss Franc
  • JPY - ¥
    Japanese Yen
  • SGD - S$
    Singapore Dollar
  • HKD - HK$
    Hong Kong Dollar
  • DKK - Dkr
    Danish Krone
  • NOK - Nkr
    Norwegian Krone
  • NZD - NZ$
    New Zealand Dollar