Sounds To Sounds TOUR 1
First half of an epic 1460km bike ride from the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds to the picturesque Milford Sounds, riding the trail designed by the Kennett Bothers, along the Sounds, through the Molesworth and across the Canterbury Plains
About this tour
Tour 1 of Sounds to Sounds covers 733km from Marlborough Sounds to Cricklewood, showcasing the South Island’s stunning landscapes, from Molesworth Station to the Canterbury Plains. Experience local hospitality, epic scenery, and the satisfaction of completing the first half of this unforgettable ride.
Total Distance: | 733km |
Difficulty: | Grade 1 – 3 |
Duration: | 12 Days/ 11 Nights |
Price From: | $5,400 NZD pp |
Start | End: | Starts & finishes in Christchurch or Picton |
Itinerary
Tour 1 starts in Christchurch and travels to Picton, where a boat ride takes you to Ship Cove to begin cycling the Queen Charlotte Track. From Marlborough’s vineyards to the remote Awatere and Molesworth Stations, the journey continues through Hanmer Springs and the Canterbury foothills, finishing near Cricklewood before returning to Christchurch.
Highlights
- Begin the adventure with a spectacular cruise through the Marlborough Sounds to the remote start of the Queen Charlotte Track.
- Cycle one of New Zealand’s premier single-track trails, winding through native bush with sweeping views of the Sounds.
- Explore the remote High Country at Molesworth Station as you pedal through New Zealand’s largest and most remote working farm, a rare and rugged landscape few get to experience.
- Conquer Taylors Pass and Kenepuru Saddle with vehicle backup and expert guides, all while soaking in panoramic alpine views.
Tour Dates
If your preferred tour date below has been marked as ‘fully booked’, please get in touch with us. We may have cancellations, and therefore some space might become available.
Dates: | Price: | Availability: | |
---|---|---|---|
29 Oct 2025 - 09 Nov 2025 | $5400 | Spaces Available | Book now |

Trail Map
This map shows the route of the Sounds to Sounds cycling tour, which stretches from the Marlborough Sounds at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, all the way to Milford Sound in the deep south. The journey begins near Picton, following the scenic coastline and inland routes down through Kaikoura and Christchurch, before heading across the Canterbury Plains and ending in Fairlie
“Sunrises and sunsets; friendships and hardships; cycle trails and trail
angels… a trail of beautiful cycling awaits.”Kennett Brothers