Included: An experienced, local biking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 5-day Otago Rail Trail & Lake Dunstan bike tour Accommodation for 4 nights in comfortable motel/hotel accommodation (double occupancy) All meals during the tour catered to all dietary requirements Tasty breakfasts (x4) Gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x5) Two-course restaurant dinners (x3) Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks, and treats Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage Return transport to Queenstown Pre-departure information kit to help you plan and prepare Rider fees paid to the Department of Conservation and Trail Trusts 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) Guide gratuities — optional Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout

How fit do I need to be?

Overall, this trip is graded introductory to moderate , making it a great option for riders with a solid base of fitness and some off-road experience. The most you’ll cycle within a day is 79 km (49 mi), with up to +768 m (+2,519 ft) of elevation gain. Check the itinerary for day-by-day distances. The Central Otago Rail Trail is introductory, featuring a wide, hard-packed surface with just one notable climb, tackled gradually along the route of the old railway line. In contrast, the Kawarau Gorge and the Cromwell Gorge section of the Lake Dunstan Trail are more moderately technical, with steeper climbs, narrower tracks, tight corners, and some exposed sections. A less challenging alternate route is available for riders who prefer it. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and we recommend training with 2–3 rides per week of 2–3 hours in the three months leading up to the trip. Riding on gravel or off-road trails, practicing hills with switchbacks, and completing a multi-day ride beforehand will help you feel comfortable and make the experience even more enjoyable—especially for those keen to ride through the Cromwell Gorge. For more biking adventures in New Zealand, click here !

What's the terrain like?

<article class="text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [&:has([data-writing-block])>*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-696a1015-9ac8-832f-a710-6f1410db09ff-15" data-testid="conversation-turn-214" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> The route is mostly compacted gravel (about 99%) , making it generally smooth and rideable, though you should be comfortable on uneven surfaces. The trail is wide and social in many sections, allowing riders to travel side by side. In a few places—particularly through Kawarau Gorge and along the Lake Dunstan Trail—you’ll encounter narrow singletrack with tight corners and some exposed drop-offs. Expect the occasional cattle-stop grate and S-shaped chicanes, which require slowing down and good bike handling, but nothing overly technical for confident riders.

What do I need to bring?

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 age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Otago Central Rail Trail 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. Biking in New Zealand can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the bike trip on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has bikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this New Zealand bike 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 can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Lake Dunstan and Otago rail trail bike tour is Queenstown . To get there, most people fly into Queenstown (ZQN) Airport . You will need to fly into Queenstown the day prior to the tour departure. From the airport, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Queenstown. Keep in mind that you’ll need to arrive at least a day prior to Day 1 of the tour as you will meet your guide on the first morning of the tour in central Queenstown. More information will be provided by the guides before the tour starts .

Safety measures and insurance

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.

QUEENSTOWN | NEW ZEALAND

Cycling Otago Centrail Rail Trail: Epic South Island Journey

5 days | Moderate | 5.00

From $2,081 ()

Book a call

This is a bike tour, yes, but we won’t be just riding. We’ll dive head first into the heart of New Zealand’s southern soul, with its surreal views and local experiences. On our 5-day journey, we’ll cruise the sparkling shores of Lake Dunstan, then plunge into the dramatic Cromwell Gorge, with its awesome trails. Then it’s on to the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail, where railway nostalgia meets wild landscapes and old-world charm. Let expert guides show you the best trailside highlights as we savor together every stop, from cozy towns to secret vineyards, with plenty of laughs, great local bites, and a touch of history thrown in!

Steven

Adventure Highlights

Stunning rides: Expect jaw-dropping views from start to finish—lakes, gorges, wide open skies, and some of the most beautiful cycling terrain New Zealand has to offer
Taste the spirit of New Zealand: From local wines and hearty regional food to welcoming lodgings and small-town charm, this trip captures the warm spirit of southern New Zealand
Seamlessly arranged: Expert guides, luggage support, accommodation, and logistics are all handled—so you can simply ride, relax, and enjoy the journey

Duration

5 days

Season

October through April

Group size

Up to 14 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

This fully guided cycling adventure showcases the very best of Central Otago’s iconic trails, from Queenstown’s flowing singletrack to the wild Kawarau Gorge, the legendary Central Otago Rail Trail, and the spectacular Lake Dunstan Trail. Riding through gold-mining towns, vineyards, gorges, and wide-open landscapes, each day blends scenic riding with rich history and local flavor. With expert guides, character-filled accommodation, and standout food and wine along the way, it’s an immersive journey through one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions.

Day 1: Queenstown → Arrowtown (Queenstown Trails)

After an early morning briefing in Queenstown, we begin riding along some of the region’s most scenic and accessible trails. The route follows Lake Whakatipu and the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers before linking into the Shotover Gorge and Wharehuanui Trails. We pass wetlands, riparian zones, and the foothills of Coronet Peak, with views across alpine landscapes and parts of the Millbrook golf course. The ride finishes in the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown, with time to explore before our first group dinner.

Riding: 46 km (29 mi)
Elevation: +608 m (+1,994 ft)
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/motel in Arrowtown

Day 2: Arrowtown → Clyde (Kawarau Gorge)

We leave Arrowtown via the Arrow River Bridges Trail, crossing dramatic suspension bridges before reaching the historic Kawarau Bridge, where adventure seekers leap from above. The ride continues through the vineyard-lined trails of the Gibbston Valley before entering the spectacular Kawarau Gorge, where the path winds along the river through remote terrain rich in gold-mining history. We finish in Bannockburn before a short transfer to Clyde.*

Riding: ~48 km (30 mi)
Elevation: +487 m (+1,597 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel/motel in Clyde

* If joining a 2026 departure, Kawarau Gorge Trail may not be available. Due to a delay in the opening of the Kawarau Gorge Trail, today’s ride would then use extended sections of the Queenstown Trails network. Find more information about the possible Day 2 itinerary at the end.

Day 3: Clyde → Wedderburn / Ranfurly (Otago Rail Trail)

Today we begin riding New Zealand’s original Great Ride, following the former Otago Central Railway line. The trail crosses wide rural plains framed by mountain ranges, gently climbing past Chatto Creek and Lauder. We ride through tunnels and across historic railway bridges, tracing the Poolburn Gorge and Idaburn Valley. After reaching the high point of the rail trail, a gradual descent leads us to Wedderburn or Ranfurly, known for its distinctive Art Deco architecture.

Riding: 79 km (49 mi)
Elevation: +768 m (+2,519 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/motel in Wedderburn or Ranfurly

Day 4: Wedderburn / Ranfurly → Middlemarch (Otago Rail Trail) → Alexandra

Continuing along the Otago Rail Trail, we ride toward Waipiata and into the Taieri Gorge, passing more bridges and tunnels. The trail flows gently downhill to the historic Hyde Hotel, then across rolling plains toward Middlemarch, marking the end of our third Great Ride. After a café lunch, we transfer to Alexandra, a town known for its dramatic temperature extremes and Central Otago character. Tonight we enjoy our final group dinner.

Riding: 75 km (47 mi)
Elevation: +318 m (+1,043 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/motel in Alexandra

Day 5: Lake Dunstan Trail → Queenstown

Our finale begins with a ride along the Clutha/Mata-Au River to Clyde, followed by a scenic boat journey on the Dunstan Explorer to access the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail. The trail hugs the lakeshore before entering the dramatic Cromwell Gorge, with impressive boardwalks, bridges, and rock walls rising above the water. Riders may choose an easier alternative around the gorge if preferred. After finishing near Clyde, we transfer back to Queenstown, with drop-offs in town and at the airport.

Riding (combined sections): 18 km (11 mi) River Trail, 17 km (11 mi) Lake Dunstan Trail (McNulty Inlet → Cornish Point), 24 km (15 mi) Cromwell Gorge section (optional)
Elevation: up to +346 m (+1,134 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Not included (tour ends in Queenstown)

Day 2 (if Kawarau Gorge Trail isn't available): Arrowtown → Clyde – Queenstown Trails & Gibbston Valley

* If joining a 2026 departure, Kawarau Gorge Trail (currently as Day 2 in the itinerary) may not be available. Instead, today’s ride would then use extended sections of the Queenstown Trails network—see a sample below.

We ride through peaceful countryside on the Countryside and Twin Rivers Trails, following the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers toward Lake Hayes, where calm waters reflect the surrounding mountain ranges. After crossing two suspension bridges on the Arrow River Bridges Trail, we reach the historic Kawarau Bridge, home of the world’s first commercial bungy jump. We continue through the Gibbston Valley, Central Otago’s renowned wine region, before a short transfer brings us to the charming gold-mining town of Clyde.

Riding:. 52 km (31 mi)
Elevation: +567 m (1,859 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel/motel in Clyde

Photo gallery

Poolburn Gorge on the Otago Rail Trail bike tour

Highway at Lindis Pass to Central Otago.

Lodging & food

Hotels & motels

Accommodation on this trip is carefully chosen for comfort, character, and location, ensuring you stay close to the best riding each day. We use a selection of charming, character-filled properties, with rooms based on twin or double share. For the first two nights, facilities are shared, while the final two nights feature en-suite bathrooms. Due to the historic nature of some properties, en-suite rooms can’t be guaranteed every night, though they may be available on the first and second nights on request and subject to availability (additional cost applies).

The price 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.

Food

Fueling up is a big part of the adventure, and we make sure you’re well-fed from start to finish. Most of your meals are included, featuring a mix of tasty cafe breakfasts, gourmet picnic or cafe lunches, and two-course restaurant dinners. We focus on fresh, local flavors that give you the energy needed for the trail while showcasing the best of the region’s culinary scene.

We take pride in making sure everyone is looked after, so all dietary requirements are expertly catered for throughout the trip (just notify us at checkout). Whether you’re enjoying a mid-ride picnic in a scenic spot or winding down with a restaurant meal at the end of the day, you can expect high-quality food that’s as memorable as the riding itself.

Adventure, packed to go

Cycling Otago Centrail Rail Trail: Epic South Island Journey

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

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

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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)

Emma J.

|October 2025

Amazing scenery, vistas, challenging. Beautiful environment and natural beauty added to the adventure

Jodie McClellan

I have just returned from my trip with Adventure South. We cycled from Lake Dunstan to the end of the Otago Central Rail Trail. Although we were a small group, we were well looked after by Jude our trusty guide and driver. The bikes were well-maintained and easy to ride. The accommodation and food options were excellent.

Michelle Brown

It was a very supportive, fun and well-organised ride. Jude, our tour guide was great and did a very good job doing it on her own. Looking to do another trip with Adventure South NZ.

Show all reviews

Emma J.

|October 2025

Amazing scenery, vistas, challenging. Beautiful environment and natural beauty added to the adventure

Jodie McClellan

Michelle Brown

It was a very supportive, fun and well-organised ride. Jude, our tour guide was great and did a very good job doing it on her own. Looking to do another trip with Adventure South NZ.

Sara Land

Great tour and great company. The side trips, food and accommodation were terrific, the guides were friendly, knowledgeable and kept an eye on everyone so our mixed fitness group all were catered to. Highly recommend ebikes so you can just enjoy the scenery. Adventure South is small enough to care. Loved this trip.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local biking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 5-day Otago Rail Trail & Lake Dunstan bike tour
  - Accommodation for 4 nights in comfortable motel/hotel accommodation (double occupancy)
  - All meals during the tour catered to all dietary requirements
    
    Tasty breakfasts (x4)
    
    Gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x5)
    
    Two-course restaurant dinners (x3)
  - Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks, and treats
  - Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
  - Return transport to Queenstown
  - Pre-departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  - Rider fees paid to the Department of Conservation and Trail Trusts 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)
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
Overall, this trip is graded introductory to moderate, making it a great option for riders with a solid base of fitness and some off-road experience. The most you’ll cycle within a day is 79 km (49 mi), with up to +768 m (+2,519 ft) of elevation gain. Check the itinerary for day-by-day distances.

The Central Otago Rail Trail is introductory, featuring a wide, hard-packed surface with just one notable climb, tackled gradually along the route of the old railway line. In contrast, the Kawarau Gorge and the Cromwell Gorge section of the Lake Dunstan Trail are more moderately technical, with steeper climbs, narrower tracks, tight corners, and some exposed sections. A less challenging alternate route is available for riders who prefer it.

A reasonable level of fitness is required, and we recommend training with 2–3 rides per week of 2–3 hours in the three months leading up to the trip. Riding on gravel or off-road trails, practicing hills with switchbacks, and completing a multi-day ride beforehand will help you feel comfortable and make the experience even more enjoyable—especially for those keen to ride through the Cromwell Gorge.

For more biking adventures in New Zealand, click here!
The route is mostly compacted gravel (about 99%), making it generally smooth and rideable, though you should be comfortable on uneven surfaces. The trail is wide and social in many sections, allowing riders to travel side by side. In a few places—particularly through Kawarau Gorge and along the Lake Dunstan Trail—you’ll encounter narrow singletrack with tight corners and some exposed drop-offs. Expect the occasional cattle-stop grate and S-shaped chicanes, which require slowing down and good bike handling, but nothing overly technical for confident riders.
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 pricing
- - For this Otago Central Rail Trail 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.
Biking in New Zealand can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the bike trip on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has bikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this New Zealand bike 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 can 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 starting point of your Lake Dunstan and Otago rail trail bike tour is Queenstown. To get there, most people fly into Queenstown (ZQN) Airport. You will need to fly into Queenstown the day prior to the tour departure. From the airport, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Queenstown.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to arrive at least a day prior to Day 1 of the tour as you will meet your guide on the first morning of the tour in central Queenstown. More information will be provided by the guides before the tour starts.
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.

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