PureTrails fits so well with my rural Canterbury upbringing, passion for the outdoors and sharing our great backyard with like-minded people. My interests revolve around our wonderful family of three boys, golf, tennis, boating and flying. Jo and I can’t wait to create countless memorable experiences and show off our awesome landscapes.
Travelling in comfort
since 2004
Created for mature travellers.
Adventure in comfort, with us.
We’re committed to making it possible for people of any age, stage or fitness level to comfortably enjoy the trails, to adventure and to explore.
It’s about creating memories, with friends – new and old. It’s about finding a pace that works for you, knowing whatever you choose, there will always be a slice of home-baking, a dedicated-experienced crew and a warm luxury shuttle available throughout the day.
There will be laughs – and sometimes a few tears. There are always stories served over a shared dinner of truly wonderful food, in restful, private accommodations each night.
Our story.
With over 20 years of experience under our belt, PureTrails know a thing or two about what makes an outstanding bike adventure holiday.
We understand the value of a good night’s sleep, the comfort of refuelling with some home baking, and the confidence you feel knowing your experienced & trustworthy guide is always close by, should you need any help.
New Zealand’s South Island: we live here, we play here, we ride here, and we know this country like no other. Many of our guides have been with us for decades, so their stories to share add a spicy local flavour to your tour experience.
Sustainability.
We don’t take the privilege of sharing NZ’s South Island with our clients lightly. Cycling in itself is an activity that treads lightly on the planet, but our aim is to minimise our environmental impact throughout our whole operation. We want to play our part in preserving and enhancing our environment for our tamariki (children), mokopuna (grandchildren), and all future generations.
Our sustainability practices include:
- Harvesting rainwater from our building
- Reduce water used for cleaning bikes
- Minimise paper use
- Contribute to Conservation
- Encourage our customers to bring their own coffee cup and drink bottle
- Monitoring fuel and electricity use
Removal of Wilding Pines in the McKenzie Basin.
As part of PureTrails ongoing commitment to improving the environment, especially where we operate, we’ve teamed up with ECAN (Environment Canterbury) to assist in the education and removal of Wilding Pines.
The McKenzie Basin is very dear to Dan and Jo, having spent all their life either travelling through it, holidaying there or involvement with rowing over 10 years at Lake Ruataniwha, and now a lot of their PureTrails cycle tours either drive or ride through the Basin.
This has brought a special bond with the area, and it is noticed that the invasion of the Wilding Pines has increased over the last few years, after progress was previously being made.
On our tours, we will stop either road or trail side, have a cup of tea or lunch, provide background information, followed by the opportunity to cut a few of these pesky weeds down.
This is an initiative that we are proud to bring to our tours, teaming up with ECAN, educating and assisting in the removal of the Wilding Pines that are a threat to the landscapes we all love.
Our team
Dan Batchelor
PureTrails NZ Manager
Dan Batchelor
PureTrails NZ Manager
Jo Batchelor
PureTrails NZ Manager
Jo Batchelor
PureTrails NZ Manager
Raised in the South Island high country, I feel connected to our unique landscape. I am a practising Sports Physiotherapist and beyond work, I love being with family and friends, and proud mum of 3 sons. I enjoy every adventure, golf, tennis, gardening, cooking and the arts. Dan and I are excited to share our beautiful landscapes with all of you.
Kerry Costa
Admin
Kerry Costa
Admin
I’m all about soaking up life’s simple joys and getting lost in nature’s beauty. Canterbury sunsets – they’re my daily dose of awe. When I’m not digging in the dirt or cuddling an animal and enjoying the outdoors, you’ll find me making priceless memories with my family and friends. Because for me, it’s those shared moments that truly make life shine.
John Laugeson
Tour Leader
John Laugeson
Tour Leader
I grew up in the Canterbury region and worked in the New Zealand Police for over 40 years. During my career, I was also heavily involved with Search and Rescue – a very rewarding, fitness-intensive job.
I now enjoy introducing our visitors to my favourite parts of NZ.
Megan Collings
Tour Leader
Megan Collings
Tour Leader
I’ve travelled extensively within NZ and abroad, and have just completed the Old Ghost Road (mountain bike trail) for the second time. I’m excited to have the opportunity to show off NZ and share my experiences, passion and love of the outdoors with others.
Phil Simmonds
Tour Leader
Phil Simmonds
Tour Leader
I’ve recently retired after 35 years with the New Zealand Police and Search and Rescue. I am a keen mountain biker and have completed many of the recognised rides in the South Island and Lower North Island over the last 20 years. I can’t wait to share these awesome trails with you all.
Mike van der Boom
Tour Leader
Mike van der Boom
Tour Leader
Over the years I have enjoyed exploring New Zealand and especially wilderness areas on foot, by bike and even on horseback. I have shared these experiences with my wife and two daughters as well as guiding school students. It will be my pleasure to share my passion for the outdoors with you. The amazing bike trails we have in our backyards are a pure pleasure to ride and are even more fun with good company!
Hugh McEwan
Tour Leader
Hugh McEwan
Tour Leader
After 30 rewarding years in the Recycling Industry, I embraced redundancy at 62 as an exciting opportunity to reimagine my lifestyle. It became clear that I wanted to spend more time experiencing the breathtaking outdoor beauty New Zealand offers. This shift has been incredibly fulfilling, and now I’m excited to share these amazing outdoor experiences with others, helping them connect with nature and all the adventures it has in store.
Dean Brownlie
Bike Mechanic
Dean Brownlie
Bike Mechanic
I ensure our fleet of bicycles and vehicles remain in tip-top shape for our tours, and I love it. In my spare time, I enjoy riding my bike in Christchurch’s bike parks, and dream of one day turning my shed at home into a man cave.