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West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

Name: West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail
Brand: Elife Travel
Price: 1960 USD
Availability: InStock

Country:

New Zealand

Flight:

Not included

Favorite

Tour id:

69690

Operator:

Adventure South
Length:

5 days
Group size:

14 pax
Age:

16 to 99
Difficulty:
Difficulty levels:
- Relaxing
- Easy
- Moderate
- Serious
- Heart-pumping

19.10-23.10.25 scheduled
08.12-12.12.25 guaranteed
27.12-31.12.25 guaranteed
04.01-08.01.26 guaranteed
01.02-05.02.26 scheduled
15.02-19.02.26 guaranteed
01.03-05.03.26 guaranteed
15.03-19.03.26 guaranteed
29.03-02.04.26 scheduled
12.04-16.04.26 scheduled
28.04-02.05.26 scheduled
11.05-15.05.26 scheduled
01.06-05.06.26 scheduled
20.07-24.07.26 scheduled
24.08-28.08.26 scheduled
07.09-11.09.26 scheduled
18.10-22.10.26 scheduled
08.11-12.11.26 scheduled
01.12-05.12.26 scheduled
27.12-31.12.26 scheduled
03.01-07.01.27 scheduled
31.01-04.02.27 scheduled
14.02-18.02.27 scheduled
28.02-04.03.27 scheduled
15.03-19.03.27 scheduled
28.03-01.04.27 scheduled
11.04-15.04.27 scheduled
27.04-01.05.27 scheduled
10.05-14.05.27 scheduled

Itinerary

Wedged between the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea is the 140km West Coast Wilderness Trail. Weaving through the dense rainforests, glacial rivers, lakes and wetlands, a series of smooth flowing off-road tracks takes you from Ross to Greymouth. Following the path of long-gone railways, logging trams, and water races from the mining days, you’ll soak up colourful stories from the past. Our expert guides will show you the trail’s best sights such as gold rush relics, wildlife, and hidden natural wonders. You’ll also have the option to take a trip on the TranzAlpine, one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys. Character-filled towns, atmospheric accommodation and friendly welcomes are all part of the package, as is the passion and local knowledge of our crew.

Tour program

Day 1

Christchurch to Hokitika - 18.4km Cycle

We will meet in central Christchurch at Cathedral Junction at 7:15am. Your guide will drive to the Christchurch train station in time for the TranzAlpine Train (included for bookings from 27 May 2025, with an optional upgrade available to first-class level comforts of "ScenicPlus"). Rated as one of the top train rides in the world, this is an unforgettable journey across the Southern Alps arriving at Greymouth around 1pm. Lunch is own care today which can be taken at the scenic cafe on the train. On the west side of the Southern Alps, we regroup at Greymouth and drive 1 hour to the Tree Tops Cafe, backed by ranges cloaked in native bush. After a bike set up and starting photo, we’ll saddle up for our first ride along the trail. We cruise through to Hokitika, a loveable little town fronted by a dramatic beach and famous for pounamu (greenstone) and other arts & crafts - and sunsets. Two nights here won’t feel like enough. In the evening, we are hosted by local couple, Rob and Col for a paddock to plate home cooked dining experience in their architecturally designed eco home. Cycling distance: 18.4km Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel, Hokitika

Day 2

Hokitika to Lake Kaniere - 47km Cycle

Our ride today takes us inland through rural country to reach the bush-lined Kaniere water race – always a favourite for its flowing riding and babbling waters. Nestled in the forested foothills, Lake Kaniere is a grand sight indeed. We’ll follow it shores to reach the small township of Kokatahi where we’ll stop for a picnic lunch. Hokitika Gorge is up next. A short walkway offers a chance to see its granite boulders and swirling, surreal turquoise waters from many angles. From there, we’ll drive back to Hokitika where there’ll be time to explore the town some more and hopefully enjoy another West Coast sunset. Enjoy dinner of your choice in one of the town’s many restaurants and pubs. Cycling distance: 47km Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel, Hokitika

Day 3

Lake Kaniere to Kumara - 49km Cycle

Today we drive to the Treetop Walkway where you have the option to see Lake Mahinapua’s rainforest and wetlands from on high. Next up, we return to Lake Kaniere where we get back on our bikes and continue our ride through the amazing bush trails of this cycleway. Our first section on a rural road takes us to Milltown, home of saw-milling in earlier times. From there, the trail crosses a swing bridge and then a kilometre of switchback climbing takes us to the highpoint and more superb riding. From here it's mainly downhill, as we follow water races, bush tracks and reservoir roads taking in the spectacular views as we gradually descend to our overnight at Kumara and the beautiful historic hotel that is our accommodation. Cycle Distance: Lake Kaniere to Kumara - 49kms Accommodation: Theatre Royal Hotel, Kumara

Day 4

Kumara to Punakaiki - 28km Cycle

Our final day on the Wilderness Trail see us riding north to Greymouth on a combination of riverside and coastal pathways. The old road and rail bridge is just one highlight as we head towards the town centre. After a café lunch, there’s time for a stroll around the town or an optional visit to the historic Monteith's Brewery. In the afternoon we drive the stunning coastal highway to explore Paparoa National Park. First, we’ll explore the Pororari River with its dramatic limestone gorge, then take the Truman Track through striking sub-tropical forest to reach a rugged beach. Our final walk is the leisurely stroll around Punakaiki’s Dolomite Point, famous for its Pancake Rocks and thundering blow holes. We’ll stay overnight in Punakaiki, a fitting finale for our final group dinner and reflection on our West Coast adventure. Cycling distance: 28km Accommodation: Scenic Punakaiki Hotel

Day 5

Punakaiki to Christchurch - 25km Cycle

Leaving the West Coast behind us, we’ll begin our journey back towards Christchurch. Before we cross the alps, we’ll get dropped off for one last ride along quiet roads to reach Moana on the shores of Lake Brunner. With luck there’ll be time for a refreshing dip before lunch! After Lunch we'll drive back via Arthur's Pass to arrive in Christchurch in the early evening. Cycling distance: 25km

Tour Details

accommodation

4 nights hotel/motel

others

<ul> <li>4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners</li> <li>Tranzalpine train from Greymouth to Christchurch</li> <li>Entry to Treetops Walkway</li> <li>Accommodation in comfortable hotel/motel on a twin share basis.</li> <li>Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation</li> <li>New Zealand Goods and Service Tax (GST)</li> <li>A support vehicle and guide</li> <li>Bike helmet and rear pannier (if not bringing own bike)</li> <li>Water bottle</li> </ul>

Good to know

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

New Zealand

Plugs and adapters

Plug type I

Customer reviews

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Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?

You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.

Which payment options are available?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.

Can I change or cancel my reservation?

Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.

What documents are required to participate in the tour?

You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.