Wake up to the sounds of Bell Birds singing from New Zealand rain forest trees as you stay at a wilderness hostel located within this remote part of Pureora Forest Park.
Tour the scenic countryside on quiet secondary roads or purpose-built trails designed for cyclists – ideal ways to fully experience its splendor!
Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of the South Island and, within just a few short days, you could find yourself terrified with numerous adrenaline pumping experiences that will have you gasping for breath! Queenstown is popular among European and North American visitors looking for relief from winter climates but is just as attractive in summer when New Zealand’s ski season opens up!
Explore the city trails on a guided biking tour with mountain bikes or rent one for an adventure through backcountry country. Bike along the Arrow and Kawarau Rivers, past the world-famous Kawarau Bridge Bungee Jump and into Gibbston wine region where over 70 wineries offer world-renowned pinot noir wines to taste.
Take to the skies in a plane or helicopter for the ultimate aerial views of Queenstown scenery; or add Milford Sound–known as one of the eight wonders of the world–to your day trip itinerary and enjoy scenic boat cruises to discover its mountains, glaciers, and fjords.
At night, enjoy Kiwi’s version of an American country bar – Cowboys. Featuring tacky country decor and an intimidating mechanical bull, Cowboys offers eclectic music. To top it all off, board the TranzAlpine train for a spectacular 4.5 hour journey over Arthur’s Pass back to Christchurch on board its TranzAlpine train service.
Wanaka
Wanaka rivals Queenstown for its picture-perfect setting, located on the willow-clad shores of its namesake lake and serving as the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park in the Southern Alps. Here you can explore glaciers, alpine lakes, beech forests and scenic flights, bush walks or jet boats! Additionally Treble Cone and Cardrona ski resorts can also be found nearby.
One of the most beloved activities in Wanaka is hiking Roys Peak – perhaps New Zealand’s most-famous Instagram spot where photos featuring snow-capped mountains become iconic of this breathtaking country. However, it’s an easy walk; no need to be an expert hiker!
Wanaka Lavender Farm offers nature lovers another treat. Here, products made with lavender are sold ranging from essential oils and perfumes to soaps and teas; take a tour around the farm itself before purchasing some goodies at its gift shop!
Experience Wanaka like never before on a relaxing cruise on Lake Wanaka for just an hour – an activity not to be missed when visiting Wanaka! Plus, this includes one drink of your choice as part of the price!
Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef Glacier, situated within New Zealand’s Westland Tai Poutini National Park on its western coast, is one of its most acclaimed natural attractions. Spanning 12 kilometers long and stretching over 12 kilometers across Te Wahipounamu– a World Heritage Site covering all of Westland–Franz Josef descends from Southern Alps down into Te Wahipounamu to just below sea level, creating an astounding natural feature which draws thousands of visitors each year.
Franz Josef’s icy trails and glacial rivers are a sight to behold, offering visitors the opportunity to discover them on foot or guided tours that include walking poles. You can even opt for an unforgettable helicopter experience which involves being dropped off at a glacier before hiking it for yourself with experienced guides at your side who use tools such as ice picks to break through any thick layers of ice!
Roberts Point Track offers more adventurous walks. Although not suitable for novices, its rewards will include stunning views and an amazing sense of achievement. This trail features swing bridges (some may feel precarious), waterfalls and scramble sections; it requires moderate fitness but is well worth your while!
Christchurch
Rebuild from the ground up following earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch now offers visitors an exhilarating new destination on its own or as the starting point for New Zealand bike tours. Since being devastated by earthquakes that damaged over 80% of buildings, Christchurch has undergone extensive reconstruction with beautiful English-inspired gardens, heritage architecture and an exciting hospitality scene offering delicious local foods and wines.
Biking New Zealand is the perfect way to take in its stunning landscapes and unparalleled experiences. No matter if you are an amateur cyclist or an expert rider, New Zealand offers trails suitable for everyone that will challenge them and leave them with a sense of accomplishment at the end.
On your tour, you will cycle along purpose-built trails (the Kiwis have it down pat!) which feature packed gravel trails that are well maintained away from motorized traffic. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to quaint country hotels – with the highlight being Ghost Lake Hut, an intimate forest retreat offering romance as well as stunning views of Remarkables Mountain Range.
Lake Ohau Village Lodge and Farmstay offer accommodations with lakefront views. Indulge in an exciting helicopter flight over Fox Glacier’s snow-clad peaks, cycle along beaches of Tasman Sea, explore Hokitika for its crafts and jade carvings before boarding TranzAlpine train for Arthur’s Pass and back to Christchurch.
