Alps to Ocean - 6 Day Tekapo to Oamaru Traverse

We'll meet you at our depot at 16 Chain Hills Highway, Omarama, at 8:30am for your pre-ride briefing and bike fitting. If you're travelling by car, you're welcome to leave your vehicle at our base while you're away on the trail. After your briefing, we’ll shuttle you approximately 1 hour to the trail start in Tekapo, where your ride begins. You’ll follow the turquoise canal paths and peaceful gravel roads, enjoying wide open Mackenzie Country landscapes and panoramic views of the Southern Alps as you make your way towards Lake Pukaki. From there, continue across the vast Pukaki Flats to Twizel, your first overnight stop. Accommodation: Twizel. Want to make the most of your time in the high country? Ask us about adding a pre-tour night in the stunning lakeside resort of Tekapo and soaking up the stars at the Dark Sky Reserve.

Meals:  Nil

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. Today, as you depart Twizel, you’ll follow a picturesque trail alongside the vibrant turquoise canals, before reaching the canal control gates. The ride continues around the southern edge of Lake Ohau, framed by the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps. Along the way, take time to enjoy a relaxed picnic or even a refreshing swim in the lake’s clear waters. Accommodation: Lake Ohau

Meals:  B,D

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. From Lake Ohau Lodge, begin a steady climb to the highest point on the Alps to Ocean trail, Tarnbrae Saddle, sitting at 900 metres above sea level. The effort is rewarded with sweeping panoramic views back over Lake Ohau and a final, memorable glimpse of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Today’s destination is Omarama, but consider a side trip to the otherworldly Clay Cliffs. This 7km detour (each way) along a gravel road leads to dramatic natural pinnacles and sculpted formations, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Just beyond the turnoff, you’ll find Quailburn Farm Store - an ideal refreshment stop with self-serve ice creams and snacks to keep you fuelled for the final stretch. Accommodation: Omarama

Meals:  B,L

Leaving Omarama, the first 5km leads you to the top of the Chain Hills, where breathtaking views await you. Descend to the shimmering edge of Lake Benmore, where you'll find the perfect campsite at Sailors Cutting. From here, the trail meanders along the lake's shoreline, immersing you in a true wilderness experience. As you zigzag over headlands, prepare to be awestruck by the incredible vistas that unfold at every turn. Cross the impressive Benmore hydro dam and continue riding beside Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki on a scenic stretch of sealed road. The final 16km unfolds along a smooth, flowing trail that leads you into the charming township of Kurow, your next well-earned stop. Accommodation: Kurow

Meals:  B

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. After a hearty breakfast, set off through Pasquale Vineyard and along the banks of the mighty Waitaki River. Be sure to stop and admire the ancient Maori rock drawings, powerful remnants of the region’s cultural heritage, before continuing on to the historic town of Duntroon. In Duntroon, a visit to the Vanished World Museum is highly recommended. It offers fascinating geological insights that set the stage perfectly for the next part of your ride through this unique and ancient limestone landscape. Accommodation: Duntroon

Meals:  B,D

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. Your final day on the Alps to Ocean trail begins with a ride through rolling farmland, leading you to the unique limestone formations of Elephant Rock, an iconic geological feature and a great spot for a short break and photos. From here, the trail winds through more farmland and past dramatic limestone escarpments as you continue toward the coast. Approaching Oamaru, you’ll ride through the beautifully maintained Oamaru Public Gardens, one of the oldest in the country, before reaching the trail’s official end at the Oamaru Harbour. We’ll meet you at the A2O photo frame at 2:45pm for bike return and bag collection. The shuttle back to Omarama (if booked), departs at 3:00pm.

Meals:  B,L