Cycling along the beautiful Benmore Dam on the Alps to Ocean. | Clare Toia-Bailey

Admiring the scenery | Dean R

Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail

Trail Journeys is one of New Zealand's leading specialists in self-guided cycling holidays, offering fully supported Alps 2 Ocean cycling tours from Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo to Oamaru. We take care of the logistics, including bike hire, accommodation, luggage transfers and transport, so you can enjoy the freedom of riding the trail at your own pace.

We recommend adding an extra night at your starting location to enjoy a relaxed morning before beginning your ride. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, stay in Omarama near one of our depots, and we'll transport you and your bikes to the starting point on the morning of your adventure.

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Alps to Ocean Starting Points

At over 300km, the Alps 2 Ocean in New Zealand has two alternative starting points. Regardless of where you begin, this multi-day bike ride offers breathtaking landscapes in every direction, a variety of terrain to cycle through and plenty of moments to meet friendly locals in small towns along the way.

Aoraki/ Mt Cook Start

Lake Tekapo Start

About the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

The Alps 2 Ocean is New Zealand’s longest continuous cycle trail, taking you from the base of the mighty Southern Alps to the vibrant coastal town of Oamaru.

From New Zealand’s highest mountain – Aoraki/Mt Cook, to the turquoise hydro-lakes and tussock-lands of the Mackenzie Country and lush farmland of the Waitaki Valley, few cycle trails offer the diversity and variety of spectacular landscapes. Start your ride from Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and enjoy a heli-flight over the Tasman River. Or set off from Lake Tekapo and follow the canals before descending down to meet the rest of the trail at Lake Pukaki.

Along the way, small towns and rural settlements offer friendly pubs and cafés as well as unique and local accommodation to relax after a day on the bike. There's plenty to do off the bike as well. Soak in steaming hot tubs, enjoy a wine tasting in one of the Waitaki vineyards, star gaze under the most incredible night sky, and explore the towering clay cliffs.

Take a look at our exciting range of itineraries through this stunning part of New Zealand and start planning your Alps 2 Ocean Cycling holiday!

Why travel with us

First On The Trail

Trail Journeys is the largest and longest serving bike hire business on the Otago Central Rail Trail. We have helped more cyclists explore our region since the trail opened in 2000 than any other company.

EXPERT LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about the Central Otago Region and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for your needs.

Quality services

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. With regular bag, passenger and bike transport services, expert cycle mechanics and experienced consultants, enjoy a stress free cycling trip with Trail Journeys.