Explore the vast and impressive Mackenzie Basin and remote Central Otago on this remarkable gravel tour from Christchurch to Queenstown. You'll trace the footsteps of the early pioneers, along gold mining trails and stock routes which now form quiet back country roads. Journey from Christchurch to Queenstown, challenging yourself with 7 days of breathtaking gravel grinding. Enjoy incredible views of the Southern Alps from the Banks Peninsula and cycle through arid McKenzie Country surrounded by the highest peaks in the country. Admire a contrast of vivid blue lakes, sparkling rivers, snow capped mountains and golden tussock-lands and indulge in award winning wine and local Kiwi cuisine.
Explore the vast Mackenzie Basin and remote Central Otago on this remarkable gravel cycling adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown. Along the way, you'll follow in the footsteps of early pioneers, riding historic stock routes and gold-mining trails that have evolved into some of New Zealand's finest backcountry roads.
Your journey begins with a spectacular ride on the Port Hills, where expansive views stretch across the harbour and the crater rim of an extinct volcano. From there, you'll cycle through rolling farmland and cross Mackenzie Pass en route to the striking turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo before entering the wide-open landscapes of Central Otago's renowned "big sky country."
Crossing the remote Hakataramea Pass, you'll descend into the Waitaki Valley and follow sections of the Alps to Ocean Trail to Oamaru. Next, ride the historic Otago Central Rail Trail, crossing impressive viaducts and bridges and passing through tunnels dating back to the gold rush era of the 1880s.
Your final days showcase some of New Zealand's most spectacular cycling trails. Follow the Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge Trails alongside the mighty Clutha River through landscapes of remarkable isolation before taking on the iconic Lake Dunstan Trail, where engineering marvels cling to steep gorge walls beneath towering mountain peaks. Your unforgettable journey concludes in Queenstown, the perfect finale to this epic South Island cycling adventure.