Biking Tours

Our biking tours are a fun and convenient way to explore a select few stunning regions of New Zealand by bike. Discover the satisfaction of cycling through a breathtaking visual landscape, where you can hear the cries of the birds and the trickle of the streams, feel the warmth of the sun and the breeze in your hair, and smell the long dry grass.

Our biking itineraries are often on dedicated cycle trails, including the Otago Rail Trail, and are always well off the main highways. We travel by minibus to an area, often exploring en route. When the biking begins your guide and vehicle are there to support you during the day's ride, often appearing around a stretch of trail with a welcome cup of tea and snack. If the weather conditions are not favourable or you simply need a break, your support vehicle is always available as ‘back up'.

In addition to the daily cycling we go tiki-touring in our vehicle, visiting the local sights and meeting the local people in the small rural communities to really get a sense of the whole region. Each tour is led by a friendly and informative guide, and we take a maximum of 14 - 16 clients. Though your guide does not participate in the biking, they are a wealth of knowledge and are only too happy to provide any guidance you may need or cycle repair support.

How big are the groups?

With a small group size of 10 - 16 people, we feel we really get to know our travel companions well and the sense of camaraderie that builds during a tour adds a special feel to the experience. Come with your friends or come alone and make new friends - everyone is made to feel welcome with PureTrails.

How hard is the biking?

PureTrails tours are suitable for healthy people of all ages with an average level of fitness who enjoy biking. Visit our Difficulty Gradings page to read about our level of difficulty gradings. Majority of the rides are on gravel surfaces which require more effort than road cycling. The cycling is dispersed with plenty of breaks to explore local sights encountered, take photos, talk with the locals, rest, refreshments and to simply take in the scenery. Those who are not comfortable participating in all the biking are always welcome to join our support vehicle.

What about the bikes?

We can organise cycle hire for you, which will include a helmet. The hire bikes we use are modern high quality bikes that are well maintained and designed specifically for bike touring. You can bring your own bike - our vehicle has a trailer equipped for transporting bikes - however unless you have a lightweight modern and well maintained bike, we recommend you hire one. Freighting bikes by air is a costly and inconvenient exercise, so cycle hire is highly recommended.

Do I need any special equipment?

You will need a water/wind proof jacket and thermal clothing. Padded bike gloves are recommended, and silicon gel seat covers can increase seat comfort. High visibility vests are provided during any rides that are on public roads (Mackenzie Country/Molesworth Station). We will provide specific information at the time of booking on what to bring.

Do I have to carry heavy pannier bags on my bike?

No - on PureTrails New Zealand tours you only need to carry your jacket, camera etc. All your luggage is transported on our vehicle.

What's the accommodation like?

We understand the value of a good nights sleep and over the years we've spent a lot of time finding unique and memorable accommodation. We stay at comfortable, clean, characterful and well-hosted accommodations including guesthouses, historic hotels, smart motels and lodges. Accommodation is based on double or twinshare, with a combination of private and shared bathroom facilities (mostly private). Most of the accommodation we use on our biking tours is hosted by local farming families, particularly along the Otago Rail Trail and Molesworth Station, and getting to know our hosts adds a real local flavour to your experience. You will find links to some of the accommodations we use within the tour itinerary descriptions.

What if I'm travelling alone?

Accommodation is based on twin share, with a combination of private and shared facilities. Single travellers are welcome on our biking tours - either twin share with another person of the same gender or pay a single supplement and have your own room (where available).

What's the food like?

Good food is an important aspect of your holiday experience, and it's fair to say PureTrails cuisine is legendary. We love showing you the variety of foods our country has to offer, and during your cycling tour you will have nutritious and wholesome meals, often provided from local eateries famous for their 'southern hospitality'. We keep you well supplied with plenty of fresh fruit during the day, and then there's our cookies and cakes that always seem to emerge from nowhere! So you get the picture - you won't be losing any weight on our trips! We can cater for special dietary requirements; just let us know in advance of your specific requirements and we'll take care of it.

When is the best time to go?

Each season has its advantages: Springtime (October - December) features dramatic snow-clad peaks; fewer people; cooler biking temperatures; green pastures and playful lambs. Summer (January - February) features warmer temperatures; wildflowers; long summer days. Autumn (March - May) features stunning autumn colours; generally settled weather and mild temperatures. Winter (June - August) is cold, but the landscape is stunning and our itineraries are altered to fit in with conditions. Our rule of thumb is come prepared for anything regardless of the season, and you will have a great time.

How should I prepare for my tour?

We recommend you put in a good amount of training so you gain the most enjoyment out of your experience. We encourage you to get out and do some biking before your tour, starting out with say half an hour a day and gradually building up to 2-3 longer bike rides each week, ideally on gravel surfaces if available. The secret is to start slowly and increase your exercise gradually. The fitter you are the more enjoyable your tour will be.

What's included in the price of my holiday?

PureTrails is committed to providing excellent value for money tours. Accommodation, most meals, transport, vehicle and bike repair support; local sightseeing and information booklets are all included in the tour price. Bike hire, the optional Taieri Gorge Train (Otago Rail Trail tour), and other optional activities such as curling are extra. Detailed information is available on the tour pages.