GRAND TOUR South Island New Zealand 16 Days / 15 Nights Picton to Queenstown

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1 GRAND TOUR South Island New Zealand 16 Days / 15 Nights Picton to Queenstown Pedaltours Since The original New Zealand guided bike tour company. We specialise in wonderful fully supported cycling vacations for cyclists of all levels. Our tours highlight the stunning scenery and fabulous lodges of our country. We have the best rental bikes in New Zealand. Our tours are great value and are the easiest way to have a relaxed cycle vacation. Our knowledgeable, friendly local guides take pride in showcasing their country for you, while you cycle as little or as much as you want. Enjoy friendly Kiwi hospitality, superb scenery and terrain that will delight cycle enthusiasts knowing that each evening, there is a comfortable lodge and excellent cuisine awaiting you. This is the grand South Island experience, encompassing the best scenery from the moment your adventure begins in Picton, a picturesque fishing town at the northern tip of the South Island until you reach Queenstown on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, beneath the jagged peaks of the aptly named Remarkables Mountains. Your tour includes quiet, off the beaten track back-roads, glaciers, rainforests, lakes and snowy peaks. Chris and Geoff were the perfect professional guides. Their attitude was so positive. If all your Guides were like them, no one would ever go to a competitor. Dotty, USA The Lord of the Rings" was filmed here on the West Coast, (or Te Wahi Pounamu to give it its Maori name) and it is rightly recognized as a World Heritage Area.

2 Page 2 Please bring this information with you to the tour start. Suggested cycling distances are given for each day, as follows: Cas.= casual cyclists, int. = intermediate, adv = advanced. Should you need to contact Pedaltours please call the Auckland office: Cycling distances given are entirely optional; cycle as little or as much as you wish each day, the minibus will always be available. ITINERARY The Southern Grand tour begins in Picton the gateway to the South Island. It is a small town (pop.2,600) nestling under the bushclad hills of Queen Charlotte Sound, named by Captain Cook in Your options for reaching Picton are as follows: a. Fly to Auckland, then fly to Wellington and take the ferry to Picton. Please visit for further information. b. Our guide will be driving from Christchurch to Picton on the meeting day; please let us know if you would like a ride in the minibus with the guide. Highlights and Points of Interest A spectacular ride through Queen Charlotte Drive, native bush and over Pelorus Bridge. The quiet back road follows Nelson Lakes National Park. the Motueka River and MEETING DAY / DAY ONE: Picton (pop 3,000) We meet at 4.00 pm at Picton Beachcomber Inn. 27 Waikawa Rd, Picton. Your tour leader will then hold a trip orientation meeting and fit you to your rental bikes. We will then take a short ride of around 20 kilometres on a quiet coastal road to Whatamango Bay. Day Two: Picton to Nelson: (pop 46,200) Picton to Havelock: Picton to Pelorus Bridge: adv. 110km/69 mi cas 35km/ 22 mi Int. 56km/ 35 mi We climb out of Picton along a delightful, twisty little coastal road to Mahau Sound and the sleepy town of Havelock, from where the mail boat leaves. The town's claim to fame rests on the fact that two scientific giants grew up here: Ernest Rutherford, who was the first to split the atom, for which he won a Nobel prize in 1908, and later, William Pickering, who spent his career in the U.S. and directed the first successful satellite launches in the late 1950's in response to the Soviet Sputnik program. You will also notice many mussel farms along the Queen Charlotte Sounds. After riding through dairy farming country we reach an attractive bush reserve at Pelorus Bridge where we have lunch. Due to traffic volumes from here, meet at Pelorus Bridge or Rai Valley to drive into Nelson over the climbs of Rai Saddle and Whangamoa Saddle. Keen riders may enjoy an additional (cycling) side trip to Okiwi Bay on a quiet road with excellent views. The cathedral city of Nelson is New Zealand's sunniest city with its neighbouring orchards and sandy beaches.

3 Page 3 Day Three: Nelson to St Arnaud (pop 445) Motueka to Kohatu: Motueka to Golden Downs Motueka to St Arnaud: cas. 52 km / 33 mi int. 56km/ 35 mi adv.97 km/ 61 mi We drive 45 minutes to Motueka at the mouth of the river of the same name which empties into Tasman Bay. We cycle up the Motueka Valley, a delightful quiet road that passes apple orchards, berry farms, fields of hops, wineries and dairy farms before reaching open sheep country. After a picnic lunch at Tapawera we continue to climb through Golden Downs forest and mostly uninhabited country before a final descent to St Arnaud, set in beech forest by beautiful Lake Rotoiti ( little lake in Maori). Day Four: St Arnaud to Murchison (pop 500): 63 km / 39 mi We take a short walk (up to1 hour) in the beech forest by the lake before starting the day's ride. From St Arnaud we follow the Buller River downhill through sheep farming country to Murchison. There are virtually no towns or shops before Murchison, once a gold mining town and best known for the devastating 1929 earthquake. Day Five: Murchison to Westport (pop 3,900): adv. 97 km/ 61 mi Murchison to Berlins: cas/int 64 km/ 40 mi There is the option (at extra cost) to raft down the impressive Buller Gorge to Lyell for lunch, or cycle the road which continues to follow the course of the Buller river. The river goes through a narrow gorge for parts of the route but other than the mining ghost town of Lyell and tiny Inangahua there are few services en route before we reach Westport and the sea. The sparsely populated West Coast is relatively isolated being cut off by the Southern Alps. Westport was originally founded as a gold-mining town c.1860, then served as a port for shipping coal but is now mainly reliant on tourism and fishing. Before dinner at a superb restaurant on the beachfront at Tauranga Bay, near Cape Foulwind, there will be a chance to visit a New Zealand fur seal colony and see cheeky black wekas (flightless native birds). Day Six: Westport to Punakaiki (pop 75) Westport to Charleston: int. 57 km/ 36 mi cas. 26 km/ 16 mi At Charleston, the only town en route, you may wish to go caving or underwater rafting. The rolling coastal road offers many spectacular views and delightful sandy coves. The Paparoa Range provides a backdrop of thick native bush and broken by limestone cliffs. At Punakaiki we will take a walk around Dolomite Point to explore the fascinating Pancake Rocks, where the sea has undermined the sedimentary rock and created spectacular layered rock formations and dramatic blow holes, especially at high tide. Day Seven: Punakaiki. Rest Day Options today include kayaking on the scenic Pororari River, hikes in Paparoa National Park or easy walks on the Truman Track or to the Punakaiki Cavern, featuring glow-worms. The West Coast rainforest features nikau palms, tree ferns, weeping rimu and towering rata and you may be lucky enough to encounter native birds such as weka, tuis, wood pigeons or bellbirds. Or you may choose to simply relax in the beautiful surroundings or explore the expanses of wild empty beach.

4 Page 4 Day Eight: Punakaiki to Hokitika (pop 3,400): Punakaiki to Greymouth: adv. 84km / 52.5 mi cas./int. 44 km/ 28 mi We head south along the coast on a road squeezed between the mountains and the sea, crossing a few rivers, to Greymouth, the principal town of Westland. Named after Sir George Grey, New Zealand s first Governor, it was the site of Mawhera, the largest Maori settlement on the West Coast. From here it is a flat run to Hokitika - a town famous for its goldrush in the 1860 s and more recently timber milling. The town has greenstone (jade) and glass blowing factories and now relies on tourism. Day Nine: Hokitika to Franz Josef (pop 330): Mt Hercules summit to Franz Josef: Lake Ianthe to Franz Josef: Hokitika to Franz Josef Glacier: cas. 51 km/ 32 mi int. 80km/ 50mi adv. 135km/ 84.4mi. Crossing the Hokitika River we head south through native bush of rimu and Kahikatea (white pine). Our route takes us through an agricultural valley and forest. The country is rolling with one climb up Mt Hercules after the town of Harihari (nowhere near as daunting as the name suggests!) and a final flat run from Whataroa. Entering Westland National Park as we pass beautiful Lake Mapourika, we have superb views of snowcapped peaks. Highlights and Points of Interest Paparoa National Park and the impressive pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki. Former gold-mining town of Hokitika, also known for jade (greenstone) crafts and jewelry. Stay at the Beachfront Hotel with views over the beach and vast Tasman Sea. Day Ten: Franz Josef to Lake Moeraki Bruce Bay to Lake Moeraki: Fox to Lake Moeraki: Franz Josef to Lake Moeraki: cas. 43km/27mi int. 89km/56mi adv. 114km/71mi From Franz Josef to Fox Glacier is just 24km, but includes three quite severe climbs (and descents); it is through beautiful native forest. The remaining terrain is very gently undulating. From Fox to Lake Paringa the road passes through lush rain forest of rimu and rata, flax filled swamps and past rugged hills. The many rivers become raging torrents after rain. With fine weather there will be superb views of Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps. Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge was established in 1989 by owners Anne Saunders and biologist Gerry McSweeney to help protect the rainforest and to share this extraordinary natural lakeside setting with visitors. On arrival there is time to take a paddle in canoes on the lake which is stocked with trout or hike to Monro s beach to spot fur seals and (in season) penguins. Dinner this evening is in the lodge s dining room overlooking the wilderness area. Day Eleven: Lake Moeraki Optional Rest Day or Ride to Jackson Bay Lake Moeraki to Jackson Bay: int/adv. 79km/49mi Haast Village to Jackson Bay: cas. 51km/32mi After breakfast, we have a free day with plenty of outdoor activities provided by the Wilderness Lodge, including kayaking or hiking through the rainforest. There is also a complimentary daily guided programme including glow-worm walks and giant eel-feeding. For those keen for more cycling there is the option of riding to Jackson Head, south of Haast, mostly hugging the coastline. This headland provides shelter from the prevailing wind direction, and here a fishing harbour has survived since the early pioneer days of seal hunting. The village offers spectacular views of the ocean and the Southern Alps. Jackson

5 Page 5 Head also marks the southern end of the west coast s narrow river plains. Beyond this point, the steep mountain ranges plunge directly into the sea - the first of the deep glacial fiords is just 60 kilometres away. Day Thirteen: Makarora to Wanaka (pop. 7,000): Makarora to Hawea turnoff: int./adv. 66km/ 41mi cas. 50km/ 31mi When you visit this remote and geographically - gifted region, it s easy to see why it has been designated a World Heritage Area. Day Twelve: Lake Moeraki to Makarora (pop. 80): Lake Moeraki to Haast: Lake Moeraki to Haast Pass: adv. 112/70mi cas. 30km/19mi int. 81km/51mi Just south of Lake Moeraki, Knights point affords excellent views of the rugged coastline where seals can often be seen basking in the sun. From Haast we head inland, following the Haast River towards the snowcapped peaks. We pass innumerable waterfalls and much bird life, notably keas, fantails and bellbirds. After lunch the stiff climb through the Gates of Haast is negotiated before the gentle descent to tiny, isolated Makarora. Makarora is a base for trampers (hikers) and the renowned Siberia Experience. Highlights and Points of Interest Lake Wanaka s spectacular location at the foot of the Southern Alps with the wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park nearby makes it a magnet for outdoor lovers the world over. The country is now dramatically drier, dense bush giving way to open sheep paddocks. The road closely follows lake Wanaka, crosses the Neck to Lake Hawea and then re-crosses to Lake Wanaka. There are dramatic views of jagged, rocky mountains across the lake. Wanaka is the gateway to Mt Aspiring National park and several winter ski regions. Those with energy to spare may like to hike up Mt Iron for more panoramic views or visit Rippon Vineyard (Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling wines) for a more leisurely afternoon. Day Fourteen: Wanaka: Loop int. 56km/ 35mi Loop adv. 115km/ 72mi Situated at the Southern end of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by mountains Wanaka is a playground for the outdoor enthusiast with a multitude of options to fill your day. You can choose a scenic loop road bike ride with a longer options riding around Lake Dunstan. There are walks of all lengths, including one considered the best half day walk in New Zealand, the Rob Roy Glacier in the Mt Aspiring National Park, a world of mountains, jet boating, kayaking or fishing on the Lake and there is also a scenic golf course. A more leisurely day can be enjoyed exploring the town or visiting Rippon Vineyard for some stunning Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling wines. Queenstown: Around 1.9 million visitors are drawn to Queenstown each year to enjoy their own unforgettable travel experience. Visitors come to experience our awe-inspiring scenery, to search for adventure, to seek out relaxation and rejuvenation, or just to breathe our pure mountain air. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world.

6 Page 6 Day Fifteen: Wanaka to Queenstown via Cardrona: adv. 78km/ 49mi Wanaka to Cardrona Hotel: cas./int. 27km/ 17mi Our route today takes us up the Crown Range, over the Cardrona Road. We climb through tussock hills past the historic Cardrona Hotel; on reaching the top there will be amazing views of the Remarkables mountain range and Queenstown. The adfacent Pisa Range (1963m) features New Zealands s only Nordic ski-touring and snow-shoe trails. We descend the exhilarating hairpin bends down to Arrowtown, an attractive, well-preserved gold-mining village with quaint old cottages and avenues of elms. Day Sixteen: Queenstown Options today include a jet boat or rafting trip on the Kawarau or Shotover Rivers, the steamer "Earnslaw" to visit a high country sheep station, the gondola cableway, Skippers canyon, a flight to Milford Sound (fiord), and much more. Queenstown also has an excellent botanical garden and a very good shopping centre. It is here that we say farewell, a safe journey home and hope to see you again (or start the Southern Scenic tour). An easy flat ride beneath Coronet Peak, a winter ski field, takes us to Arthur s Point where we cross the Shotover River on our way to Queenstown. Look our for jet boats speeding through the narrow gorge. Surrounded by mountain peaks (including the famous Remarkables), and set on Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown (pop 35,000) has much to offer.

7 Page 7 Grand Tour 16 days / 15 nights What s included Mostly 3 and 4 star accommodation 15 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 13 dinners Full minibus support Experienced guide/ cycle mechanic Pedaltours souvenir cycle jersey Daily coloured maps with detailed profiles Thirty years experience in offering guided cycle tours in New Zealand Day 2 (B, L, D) Rutherford Hotel Trafalgar Square, Nelson The hotel is located in a prime spot only minutes walk from Nelson's landmark cathedral and main shopping district (including just a block away from Jens Hansen Goldsmiths, creators of the ring in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy). Route rating Moderate with 3 challenging days the support vehicle is always available cycle as much or as little as you wish. Accommodation Meal Details B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner Key Bar Guest Laundry Gym Swimming Pool Internet Access Restaurant Spa Pool Sauna Day 1 (L, D) Beachcomber Hotel 27 Waikawa Rd, Picton Stunning harbour side location and only 2 minutes walk to Picton town centre. Day 3 (B, L, D) Alpine Lodge St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes National Park Luxury studios in an alpine design with mountain & bush views located on the first floor. Close to the beautiful Lake Rotoiti which is surrounded by a Beech forest and features a tramping track which circles the lake. Pedaltours PO Box , Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand Toll free from US Toll free from Canada Ph

8 Page 8 Grand Tour 16 days / 15 nights Day 4 (B, D) Murchison Motel 53 Fairfax Street, Murchison Contemporary four-star comfort, beautiful gardens and stunning facilities. Only a few minutes walk to cafes, restaurants and bars. Day 6 (B, L, D) Punakaiki Resort, Punakaiki Beachfront accommodation with spacious modern rooms situated on New Zealand s wild west coast and only 300m south of the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Day 5 (B, L, D) Chelsea Gateway Motor Lodge 330 Palmerston Street, Westport In a central location only a few minutes walk to restaurants. The Buller River is also within walking distance and is one of New Zealand's longest rivers. Day 7 (B, D) Punakaiki Resort Day 8 (B, L, D) Beachfront Hotel 111 Revell Street, Hokitika Only a stone s throw away from a stunning West Coast Beach and is close to the town s restaurants, cafés, shops and charming craft galleries. Pedaltours PO Box , Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand Toll free from US Toll free from Canada Ph

9 Page 9 Grand Tour 16 days / 15 nights Day 9 (B, L) Punga Grove 40 Cron Street. Franz Josef Stylish boutique accommodation in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier Village. Nestled in a lush native rainforest 5 minutes walk to shops, cafes, bars and tour operators Day 13 (B) Te Wanaka Lodge 23 Brownston St, Wanaka Te Wanaka Lodge is a contemporary European-style 13-room Bed & Breakfast lodge, located in the heart of Wanaka Village. Day 10 (B, D) Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge Boutique luxury eco-lodge sits beside the Moeraki River, surrounded by towering rainforest near the pristine Tasman seacoast Day 14 (B, D) Te Wanaka Lodge Day 11 (B, D) Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge Day 15 (B, D) Millennium Hotel 32 Frankton Road, Queenstown A year round resort near the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown s central shopping area. Day 12 (B, L, D) Makarora Tourist Centre, Makarora A back to nature experience. Tucked in under Mt Shrimpton, with it s A frame accommodation borders the Mt Aspring World Heritage National park. Pedaltours PO Box , Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand Toll free from US Toll free from Canada Ph Day 16 (B) Depart or join us on the Southern Scenic tour.