Tour Aotearoa, NZ South Island, Te Waipounamu

This is a stunningly diverse bike ride from the Marlborough Sounds to Bluff in the deep south. The ride takes in the historically mysterious Maungatapu track, Nelson Lakes National Park, and as we ride down the wonderful west coast of New Zealand we encounter a fabulous combination of wild coastlines, rain forest, cows, cowboys and possibly cow seals? The ‘Tour Aotearoa’ South Island – Te Waipounamu is a 1410km cycling route created by the Kennett Brothers exploring the length of the South Island from Picton to Bluff and riding on as many of New Zealand’s off road cycle trails and quiet back roads as possible. We have created a fully supported version of the Tour Aotearoa so that you you can ride a full island or indeed the full length of New Zealand knowing that we have got your back! Our Tour Aotearoa – South Island closely follows this classic route and also includes plenty of quirky extras, stop-overs and special places in the true Escape Adventures’ style.

Whether you choose to ride the full length of New Zealand or just one Island at a time – we’ll sort the nitty gritty. Before your tour begins, we will organise all the logistics and book all accommodation.

We will give you daily digital route maps, that you can follow on your phone or GPS, and route cue notes so that you can ride at your own pace, stop when you like to smell the roses and grab a coffee when the opportunity presents, while always knowing that we are there if you need us.

On tour, your awesome Escape Adventures support crew will have your breakfast ready for an early start and provide snacks for you to carry with you. They will provide daily ride information and ride sweep with first aid and mechanical support. Our support vehicle will carry your luggage, and on most days set up a ‘floating picnic lunch’ on route so that you can dine’n’dash and top up on water and snacks. The support vehicle is also there if you need first aid or mechanical support, or if you need a break from the saddle.

31-124km riding per day on wonderfully remote and scenic riding route. Approximately 64% sealed roads / 21% quiet gravel roads and 15% cycle trails. There are some big climbs, big downs, undulating coastal terrain and of course there is also some flat terrain. Cycle trails have variable terrain and generally slow riding speed. Dirt/gravel road biking experience will add to the enjoyment of your tour.