New Zealand Biking – Trails of the South Island
Legendary Trails to Lands Unseen
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- Activity Level: 3
- Days: 9
- Group Size: 4-14
- Member price: from $4,999
- Non-member price: from $5,499
Overview
A trail-riders’ dream trip of New Zealand’s South Island. This 9-day epic journey showcases two iconic trails that wind through towering mountain ranges, immense glaciers, picturesque lakes and historical towns.
Our adventure gears up with the most scenic sections of the 300 km Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail. Deep blue lakes, twisting rivers, award-winning vineyards and brake-worthy geological formations invite exploration. From there, the Otago Central Rail Trail sweeps you along steep gorges, tunnels and bridges that lead to ever-changing landscapes.
Each day brings a new scenery and challenge—from the world’s steepest street at a 35% grade to charming gold rush villages settled amidst rugged peaks. And in between, stops that let you savor exceptional wines and cuisine, sharing stories and laughs with new friends and old.
Trip highlights
- Bike the South Island's diverse landscapes, from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
- Pedal the car free Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail and Otago Central Rail Trail
- Experience the beauty of the Taieri Gorge on a remarkable rail journey
- Explore the towering, weathered limestone Elephant Rocks of Oamaru
- Free day in Dunedin to discover unique wildlife, including the royal albatross
Activities
- Cycling
Accommodations
Hotels/Inns, 8 nights
Itinerary
Our trip begins in Christchurch, New Zealand. Meet your guides and fellow travelers in the Chateau on the Park Hotel lobby at 8:30am. Our guides conduct an orientation and bike fitting and then we’re off. We drive south to Geraldine and begin our ride to Fairlie. We follow quiet, sealed roads through picturesque landscapes. After a short break for lunch, we transfer to Lake Tekapo Village, located on the shores of an idyllic lake. Our ride beside the turquoise waters of the canal system introduces us to the famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. Returning to Tekapo, there is free time to visit the local hot pools or the famous Church of the Good Shepherd. Lunch and dinner included.
Cycling: 22 miles, 3.5 hours; riding elev. +160’/-570’ on cycle trails, paved and gravel roads; driving: 3 hours.
The next three days are spent cycling some of the best sections of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, considered one of New Zealand’s “Great Rides.” The trail showcases geological, scenic, and historical highlights from the nearby mountain ranges to the South Pacific Ocean. We begin our ride along the Tekapo Canal and wind our way along the shores of Lake Pukaki. On a clear day there are views to Mount Cook across its sapphire waters. We have lunch in Twizel, a small town located in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin. From here the cycle way follows the Ohau Canal to the southern shores of Lake Ohau with views of Glen Mary Glacier and the Ben Ohau Range. All meals included.
Cycling: 47 miles, 4.5-5 hours; riding elev. +1,177’/-1,597’ on a mix of smooth shingle, gravel and sealed road/cycle trails.
We continue our ride on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, cycling up and over the Tarnbrae Saddle to Omarama, a famous gliding hotspot. After lunch we continue along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting, where we load up the bikes and transfer to the village of Otematata. We continue our ride over the Benmore Dam, then descend to Lake Aviemore and ride along the northern shore. A transfer brings us to the tiny village of Kurow. Options to explore the village by bike include a ride to the beautifully restored St. Albans Chapel and Vicarage (a Heritage New Zealand site), or to the local Pasquale vineyards to taste award-winning wines. Tonight we stay at the Waitaki Braids Lodge (est. 1888) and dine in the lodge’s restaurant to enjoy a meal by an award-winning chef. All meals included.
Cycling: Up to 51 mile, 5.5-6 hours; riding elev. +1,975/-1,984’ on a mix of paved, gravel, shingle and dirt roads and cycle trails.
The cycle trail takes us along the banks of the Waitaki River and through Kurow’s vineyards. We pass by a Maori rock art site before reaching Duntroon and begin cycling on a mix of trails and quiet rural roads. We pause to walk amongst the unusual rock formations known as Elephant Rocks, then follow a short section of an old branch railway line through the Rakis railway tunnel. We pass the Oamaru Stone quarry, where stone has been extracted since the 19th Century; its influence on local architecture is clearly seen as we ride our final section into the harbourside town of Oamaru. There is time to explore the old Victorian Precinct with its many galleries, shops and cafes, and perhaps visit the fascinating Steampunk Museum. From Oamaru we transfer by van to Dunedin, our home for the next two nights. All meals included.
Cycling: Up to 51 miles, 5.5 hours; riding elev. +1,217/-1,820’ on a mix of paved, gravel, shingle and dirt roads and cycle trails.
Today is free to explore Dunedin at your leisure. The cultural mix of Maori and Scottish settlers gave the city a unique, quirky character. Add in the world’s steepest street with a maximum 35% grade, and New Zealand’s smallest bar at 1.8 meters wide, and you get the picture! The city also has the finest examples of Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere, and the rail depot is considered one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. The stunning Otago Peninsula also hosts the only mainland breeding colony of the royal albatross and nesting grounds for the rare Yellow-eyed Penguins. Breakfast included.
From Dunedin’s splendid rail station we take a journey aboard the historic Taieri Gorge Railway. Traveling through the narrow and deep gorge cut out by the Taieri River, we pass through ten tunnels and cross numerous bridges and viaducts. Our train ride concludes at Pukerangi, where we begin our bike ride on New Zealand’s original and most famous “Great Ride,” the Otago Central Rail Trail. This rail trail offers a 150-kilometer scenic and historic journey into the Central Otago heartland. We witness the natural beauty and look in awe at some early feats of the first settlers of this region. Our destination is Ranfurly, a sleepy town known for its restored Art Deco buildings. All meals included.
Cycling: 37 miles, 3.5 hours; riding elev. +728’ on mostly flat, hard-packed gravel cycle trails, with one tunnel.
Our cycling route continues along the Otago Central Rail Trail. The ever-changing landscape includes rugged mountains and steep, winding gorges. We are treated to views of the Dunstan Mountains and the Raggedy Range as we ride to Clyde. This quaint, historic town is perfectly situated in an up-and-coming wine region. Clyde was once a wild and rollicking “canvas” town bustling with gold miners. Dunstan House was significant as a social gathering point for the thousands of miners. This historic hotel, built in 1900, has been fully restored and will be our lodgings for the night. We visit a local winery to learn about the region’s exceptional grapes, and sample an award-winning Pinot Noir. All meals included.
Cycling: up to 56 miles, 5.5 hours; riding elev. +640’/-1,469’ on hard packed gravel cycle trails, with two tunnels.
We drive from Clyde to the Gibbston Valley near Queenstown. Reaching a local winery, we gear up for our final ride. Our route initially winds through Gibbston Valley on part of the famous Queenstown Trails, where we have views of the scenic Kawarau River. While crossing a large suspension bridge, we may see bungy jumpers launching themselves towards the river below. Our ride brings us to Arrowtown a charming gold rush village settled below the high peaks that surround the Arrow River. After lunch, postcard views are around every bend as we climb and descend to the aquamarine riverbed. The trail gradually turns onto quiet streets, signalling our arrival into Queenstown. We transfer by van to our lodgings. Tonight we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner. All meals included.
Cycling: 22 miles, 3 hours; riding elev. +850’/-1,150’ on hard-packed gravel cycle paths and roads, with several suspension bridges; driving: 1.5 hours.
The trip concludes with a group transfer at 8:30am to the Queenstown Airport. Consider extending your stay to explore Milford Sound, take a jet boat ride on Shotover River, or even experience bungy jumping. Breakfast included.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions. The cycling routes may be changed. Final rides are left up to the trip leader’s discretion. Accommodations may change according to the season and availability.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Double occupancy accommodations; support vehicle and ground transportation; 27-speed Trek Dual Sport 2 hybrid touring bikes equipped with a small rear and/or front rack bag, water bottle cage and odometer; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; sightseeing arrangements as noted in the itinerary; entrance fees and permits; experienced local guides.
Not Included
Airfare to New Zealand; meals as noted in the itinerary; optional excursions; optional upgrade to an Avanti electric bike (e-bike); bicycle helmet (required); cost of medical immunizations; insurance of any kind; excess baggage charges; soft drinks and alcoholic beverages; optional tips to guides; laundry fees, internet fees and other items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
61+ days prior to departure = $0
31 to 60 days = $400
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Single Accommodations
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available. For more details about traveling solo, see our Solo Travelers page.
- Single supplement 2019 - $999
- Single supplement 2020 - $999
Weather
Seasons in New Zealand are opposite from North America. We operate our trips late spring through summer (November through the end of March). Daytime temperatures vary depending upon location and can range from the mid 50s to the mid 70s. Nights cool off and can drop to the low 40s. The weather is variable and changes often. Rain can be expected at some point on the trip.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Wanda V.
Wanda was born in Holland and raised in Kenya, Lebanon and Canada but has spent more than half her life living in different regions of New Zealand. Wanda is an avid cyclist, hiker and skier and has guided outdoor enthusiasts on trips for nearly two decades.
Meet your guides
Dave M.
Dave began his career as an emergency room nurse, but his passion for the outdoors prompted him to change careers. Dave spends his free time hiking, surfing with his sons, and dreaming up his next cycling adventure with his family.
Adventure Expert
Jeff
Fantastic combo of the Alps to Ocean and Otago Rail Trail with new variations that superbly showcase the beauty of the south island. The optional upgrade to an Ebike feels like cheating, but it’s so much fun!
Departure dates
Select a month to view departure dates. If there are no departures in a month, the month will not appear below.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
2019
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Nov 21 - Nov 29 Available from $4,999Book now Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
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Dec 19 - Dec 27 Available from $4,999Book now Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
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Dec 26 - Jan 3 Available from $5,149Book now Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
2020
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Jan 9 - Jan 17 Available from $4,999Book now Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
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Jan 30 - Feb 7 Available from $4,999Book now Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
Gear list
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, as this will help you and the field staff.
Bicycles
We provide high quality Trek aluminum-frame hybrid bicycles on this trip. These bikes are perfectly suited for the terrain we'll encounter along our route (paved and unpaved roads, packed gravel, shingle, and dirt cycle trails) and will fit riders from 4' 8" up to 6' 4". You are welcome to bring your own pedal and shoe system and/or saddle (but not the post). Our guides will install your pedals and/or saddle prior to your initial warm-up ride.
Guests preferring an electric bike can upgrade to the Avanti Discovery-E Low for an additional cost. This e-bike has an upright riding position, 9-speed Shimano gears, Shimano STEPS drive system, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and flat pedals.
Provided by REI
- 27 Speed Hybrid Bike
- Flat Pedals
- Rear and/or Front Rack Bag
- Route Map and Odometer
- Water Bottle Cages
Required
- Bike Shorts
- Cycling Helmet
- Cycling Jacket (Waterproof)
- Cycling Jerseys
- Cycling Shoes
- Cycling Water Bottle or Hydration System
- Day Pack (21L-35L)
- Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Luggage (1 Piece)
Recommended
- Arm and Leg Warmers
- Cycling Gloves
- Cycling Pants
- Cycling Pants (Waterproof)
- Cycling Socks
- Cycling Vest
- Electrical Adapter Plug and Converter
- Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Passport/Money Belt or Pouch
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Socks
- Sport Sunglasses
- Sun Block and Lip Balm
- Sun Hat
- Swimwear
- Tee Shirts (Synthetic)
- Toiletries
- Walking Shoes
Optional
- Bicycle Rear View Mirror
- Bicycle Saddle (No Post)
- Camera and Accessories
- Clothesline, Sink Stopper and Washing Detergent Packets
- Ear Plugs
- Energy Snacks and Drink Mixes
- Pedal and Shoe System
- Reading and Writing Materials
Travel Documents
- Airline Tickets (Confirmation and Itinerary)
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
- Valid Passport
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (1-800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice, which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
.Itinerary
Print Itinerary Collapse all days
Our trip begins in Christchurch, New Zealand. Meet your guides and fellow travelers in the Chateau on the Park Hotel lobby at 8:30am. Our guides conduct an orientation and bike fitting and then we’re off. We drive south to Geraldine and begin our ride to Fairlie. We follow quiet, sealed roads through picturesque landscapes. After a short break for lunch, we transfer to Lake Tekapo Village, located on the shores of an idyllic lake. Our ride beside the turquoise waters of the canal system introduces us to the famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. Returning to Tekapo, there is free time to visit the local hot pools or the famous Church of the Good Shepherd. Lunch and dinner included.
Cycling: 22 miles, 3.5 hours; riding elev. +160’/-570’ on cycle trails, paved and gravel roads; driving: 3 hours.
The next three days are spent cycling some of the best sections of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, considered one of New Zealand’s “Great Rides.” The trail showcases geological, scenic, and historical highlights from the nearby mountain ranges to the South Pacific Ocean. We begin our ride along the Tekapo Canal and wind our way along the shores of Lake Pukaki. On a clear day there are views to Mount Cook across its sapphire waters. We have lunch in Twizel, a small town located in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin. From here the cycle way follows the Ohau Canal to the southern shores of Lake Ohau with views of Glen Mary Glacier and the Ben Ohau Range. All meals included.
Cycling: 47 miles, 4.5-5 hours; riding elev. +1,177’/-1,597’ on a mix of smooth shingle, gravel and sealed road/cycle trails.
We continue our ride on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, cycling up and over the Tarnbrae Saddle to Omarama, a famous gliding hotspot. After lunch we continue along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting, where we load up the bikes and transfer to the village of Otematata. We continue our ride over the Benmore Dam, then descend to Lake Aviemore and ride along the northern shore. A transfer brings us to the tiny village of Kurow. Options to explore the village by bike include a ride to the beautifully restored St. Albans Chapel and Vicarage (a Heritage New Zealand site), or to the local Pasquale vineyards to taste award-winning wines. Tonight we stay at the Waitaki Braids Lodge (est. 1888) and dine in the lodge’s restaurant to enjoy a meal by an award-winning chef. All meals included.
Cycling: Up to 51 mile, 5.5-6 hours; riding elev. +1,975/-1,984’ on a mix of paved, gravel, shingle and dirt roads and cycle trails.
The cycle trail takes us along the banks of the Waitaki River and through Kurow’s vineyards. We pass by a Maori rock art site before reaching Duntroon and begin cycling on a mix of trails and quiet rural roads. We pause to walk amongst the unusual rock formations known as Elephant Rocks, then follow a short section of an old branch railway line through the Rakis railway tunnel. We pass the Oamaru Stone quarry, where stone has been extracted since the 19th Century; its influence on local architecture is clearly seen as we ride our final section into the harbourside town of Oamaru. There is time to explore the old Victorian Precinct with its many galleries, shops and cafes, and perhaps visit the fascinating Steampunk Museum. From Oamaru we transfer by van to Dunedin, our home for the next two nights. All meals included.
Cycling: Up to 51 miles, 5.5 hours; riding elev. +1,217/-1,820’ on a mix of paved, gravel, shingle and dirt roads and cycle trails.
Today is free to explore Dunedin at your leisure. The cultural mix of Maori and Scottish settlers gave the city a unique, quirky character. Add in the world’s steepest street with a maximum 35% grade, and New Zealand’s smallest bar at 1.8 meters wide, and you get the picture! The city also has the finest examples of Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere, and the rail depot is considered one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. The stunning Otago Peninsula also hosts the only mainland breeding colony of the royal albatross and nesting grounds for the rare Yellow-eyed Penguins. Breakfast included.
From Dunedin’s splendid rail station we take a journey aboard the historic Taieri Gorge Railway. Traveling through the narrow and deep gorge cut out by the Taieri River, we pass through ten tunnels and cross numerous bridges and viaducts. Our train ride concludes at Pukerangi, where we begin our bike ride on New Zealand’s original and most famous “Great Ride,” the Otago Central Rail Trail. This rail trail offers a 150-kilometer scenic and historic journey into the Central Otago heartland. We witness the natural beauty and look in awe at some early feats of the first settlers of this region. Our destination is Ranfurly, a sleepy town known for its restored Art Deco buildings. All meals included.
Cycling: 37 miles, 3.5 hours; riding elev. +728’ on mostly flat, hard-packed gravel cycle trails, with one tunnel.
Our cycling route continues along the Otago Central Rail Trail. The ever-changing landscape includes rugged mountains and steep, winding gorges. We are treated to views of the Dunstan Mountains and the Raggedy Range as we ride to Clyde. This quaint, historic town is perfectly situated in an up-and-coming wine region. Clyde was once a wild and rollicking “canvas” town bustling with gold miners. Dunstan House was significant as a social gathering point for the thousands of miners. This historic hotel, built in 1900, has been fully restored and will be our lodgings for the night. We visit a local winery to learn about the region’s exceptional grapes, and sample an award-winning Pinot Noir. All meals included.
Cycling: up to 56 miles, 5.5 hours; riding elev. +640’/-1,469’ on hard packed gravel cycle trails, with two tunnels.
We drive from Clyde to the Gibbston Valley near Queenstown. Reaching a local winery, we gear up for our final ride. Our route initially winds through Gibbston Valley on part of the famous Queenstown Trails, where we have views of the scenic Kawarau River. While crossing a large suspension bridge, we may see bungy jumpers launching themselves towards the river below. Our ride brings us to Arrowtown a charming gold rush village settled below the high peaks that surround the Arrow River. After lunch, postcard views are around every bend as we climb and descend to the aquamarine riverbed. The trail gradually turns onto quiet streets, signalling our arrival into Queenstown. We transfer by van to our lodgings. Tonight we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner. All meals included.
Cycling: 22 miles, 3 hours; riding elev. +850’/-1,150’ on hard-packed gravel cycle paths and roads, with several suspension bridges; driving: 1.5 hours.
The trip concludes with a group transfer at 8:30am to the Queenstown Airport. Consider extending your stay to explore Milford Sound, take a jet boat ride on Shotover River, or even experience bungy jumping. Breakfast included.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions. The cycling routes may be changed. Final rides are left up to the trip leader’s discretion. Accommodations may change according to the season and availability.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Double occupancy accommodations; support vehicle and ground transportation; 27-speed Trek Dual Sport 2 hybrid touring bikes equipped with a small rear and/or front rack bag, water bottle cage and odometer; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; sightseeing arrangements as noted in the itinerary; entrance fees and permits; experienced local guides.
Not Included
Airfare to New Zealand; meals as noted in the itinerary; optional excursions; optional upgrade to an Avanti electric bike (e-bike); bicycle helmet (required); cost of medical immunizations; insurance of any kind; excess baggage charges; soft drinks and alcoholic beverages; optional tips to guides; laundry fees, internet fees and other items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
61+ days prior to departure = $0
31 to 60 days = $400
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Single Accommodations
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available. For more details about traveling solo, see our Solo Travelers page.
- Single supplement 2019 - $999
- Single supplement 2020 - $999
Weather
Seasons in New Zealand are opposite from North America. We operate our trips late spring through summer (November through the end of March). Daytime temperatures vary depending upon location and can range from the mid 50s to the mid 70s. Nights cool off and can drop to the low 40s. The weather is variable and changes often. Rain can be expected at some point on the trip.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Wanda V.
Wanda was born in Holland and raised in Kenya, Lebanon and Canada but has spent more than half her life living in different regions of New Zealand. Wanda is an avid cyclist, hiker and skier and has guided outdoor enthusiasts on trips for nearly two decades.
Meet your guides
Dave M.
Dave began his career as an emergency room nurse, but his passion for the outdoors prompted him to change careers. Dave spends his free time hiking, surfing with his sons, and dreaming up his next cycling adventure with his family.
Adventure Expert
Jeff
Fantastic combo of the Alps to Ocean and Otago Rail Trail with new variations that superbly showcase the beauty of the south island. The optional upgrade to an Ebike feels like cheating, but it’s so much fun!