Coast to Coast NZ: Bike, Hike, Raft

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Christchurch to Otira via the West Coast

   Your coast-to-coast adventure begins early in Christchurch around 7am with a drive across the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass to the West Coast. After a short walk from the shore of the Tasman Ocean, where you'll have a chance to dip your toes in the sea, you'll start your journey back to the East Coast. Crossing Camerons Beach with its vast mountain views, you'll head to your bikes.
   
   The first ride takes you inland along the West Coast Wilderness Trail to Kumara, where you'll cross the Taramakau River and follow a mix of sealed and unsealed roads towards Lake Brunner. You'll cycle through native bush around the lakeside, then through lush valleys with a mountainous backdrop to the small settlement of Jacksons. The final short section of the ride is along the highway, leading to Morrisons River Bridge at Otira. Here, you'll load up your bikes and transfer to your comfortable accommodation, where you'll spend the next two nights. This evening, you'll enjoy a hearty group dinner together.
   
   
   

   • 39.1 miles
   • Bealey Hotel
   • Lunch and Dinner

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     West Coast Biking

     Cycle across the country on a unique and awesome tour

2. Day 2Deception-Mingha River over Goat Pass - 30km Hike

   Today, you'll cross the mighty Southern Alps on foot. After an early breakfast, you'll transfer back to the bridge where you finished riding yesterday and embark on a challenging hike up to Goat Pass. The journey begins with a walk along the Deception River, starting on wide river flats and narrowing into a forested gorge. Following a narrow track interspersed with long stretches of boulder hopping and scrambling, you'll encounter multiple river crossings as you make your way up to Goat Pass Hut, a fitting spot for a rest and lunch just before reaching the high point.
   
   At an elevation of 1070m, you'll cross Goat Pass and then descend into the headwaters of the Mingha River, following the valley southwards to the confluence with the Bealey River. You'll emerge on the east side of ‘The Divide’ at Greyneys Shelter, near Klondyke Corner, where your support vehicle will meet you and transfer you back to your accommodation.

   • 18.6 miles
   • 2,624.7 ft
     2,624.7 ft
   • Bealey Hotel
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Hike the Beautiful Landscape

     Traverse this striking terrain by foot

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     Goat Pass Hiking

     Journey through the pristine wilderness of NZ

3. Day 3Waimakariri River - 40km Raft

   Today you'll take on the mighty Waimakariri River on a 40km rafting adventure through the Waimakariri Gorge from Goosebury Stream to Woodstock. After a short drive to Mt White Bridge, you'll meet the raft guides and prepare for the journey ahead. The river is Grade 2, which is very straight forward and suited to beginner rafters, the ability to swim is recommended.

   At the river out-take, you will meet the driver and head to your accommodation in Darfield or Springfield. Tonight you will have the last group dinner, celebrating your Southern Alps crossing.
   
   
   

   • Darfield or Springfield Accommodation
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Go Rafting on Tour

     Spend the third day on the superb Waimakariri River

4. Day 4Gorge Bridge to New Brighton Pier

   The final day of your Coast to Coast adventure takes you from the Waimakariri River all the way to the sea at New Brighton. You'll transfer from your accommodation to the Waimakariri River Bridge and get on your bike for the last section of the tour. You can ride through farms and rural landscapes along quiet country roads, trending downhill all the way to the coast. You will arrive in New Brighton and the pier marks the end of your incredible journey where you'll then enjoy a celebratory soak in the newly opened He Puna Taimoana Brighton Hot Pools around 3:00pm. 

   In the early afternoon, you can be transferred into central Christchurch or to the airport for an evening flight. If flying out, a departure after 6:00pm is recommended.
   

   • 43.5 miles
   • Breakfast and Lunch

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     Bike NZ's South Island

     Ride, hike and raft on an epic and exhilarating journey