Tandems east adventure south nz north island ride 2020 (a)
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tandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
trip highlights
spectacular rural and coastal riding from
Wellington to Napier with magnificent views
wander through Napier’s historic art deco quarter
and Hawkes Bay known for its fine wines
ride up the historic Gentle Annie climb onto the Central Plateau
visit the thermal towns of Rotorua and Taupo including Waiotapu
Thermal Wonderland and Whakarewarewa Geothermal park
enjoy a Maori feast prepared in the traditional Hangi
style including storytelling and entertainment
visit Tane Mahuta, “Lord of the Forest”
the world’s largest kauri tree
admire Cape Reinga, the northern most point of NZ
spend 2 days relaxing in the magical Bay of Islands
cycle backroads with stunning coastal views
special welcome and farewell dinners Trip Duration 17 days Trip Code: SOG5495
Grade Moderate
Activities tandem cycling
walking
Accommodation 16 nights hotel/motel
Kia Ora from Adventure South why travel with Adventure South?
Thank you for your interest in our Tandems East Adventure South “Small Groups, Great Guides, Superb Holidays.”
NZ North Island Ride 2020 (A) adventure. It’s a superb adventure This comment encapsulates an Adventure South active holiday in New
and we hope you can join us. Adventure South has been operating Zealand. The phrase was not born from a long and tortuous strategic
active holidays throughout New Zealand since 1992. Thanks to our planning process, it came from a client review! We could not have
experience we’re confident to say that we offer the very best cycling, said it any better. Our client feedback also confirms that what helps
trekking and adventure travel itineraries available in New Zealand make our holidays different are the quality of our professional guides.
today. They share their humour, compassion and wilderness experience to
There’s simply no other collection of New Zealand itineraries that can ensure that you have a great vacation and the right degree of personal
match the geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of our challenge.
active New Zealand adventure holidays. An Adventure South holiday On an Adventure South tour you can also expect the right, proven
aims to take you beyond the more popular and busy trails to provide equipment is provided for your tour; the food is delicious, plentiful and
you with a truly unique New Zealand wilderness experience. can be catered to your dietary requests; your guides are all First Aid
We’re here to show you that there are many, many more trails and trained; that the itinerary you have chosen has been carefully crafted
cycling routes in our great country that are the new frontiers in from decades of personal experience in the New Zealand wilderness,
adventure tourism ‑ beautiful, scenic, and without the crowds. We not from a guide book recommendation.
aim to explore these delicate environments in a sustainable manner
to ensure we leave as little impact as possible from our visit. We’d
be honoured to introduce you to the wide variety of natural wonders
that New Zealand is famous for. Go forth, go south ‑ join us on this
amazing small group, value packed adventure!
1 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PM
tandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
trip cost the trip
Joining Wellington USD$ from:$5800 Starting out in Wellington, this itinerary has you cycling quiet backroads from the nations
capital all the way to the most northerly point in New Zealand, Cape Reinga. Riding out of
All prices are per person Wellington we follow quiet valley roads through the Hutt Valley towards the Remutaka Pass
where we descend towards the the west coast and ride rolling coastal and rural roads to
options & supplements the town of Napier. We spend two nights in Napier to explore the world renowned art deco
buildings and enjoy the riding and the equally impressive wines of nearby Hawkes Bay.
trip dates Farewelling the coast we ride onto the Central Plateau via the infamous climb of Gentle Annie
which offers iconic views of the Central Plateau volcanoes. We will ride and walk amongst
the varied landscapes here to fully explore and appreciate the thermal towns of Rotorua
2020 02 Jan - 18 Jan and Taupo where Maori culture and history is rich. Heading north we ride towards the
Coromandel Peninsula then skirt around Auckland where we ride roads through old growth
important notes forests and visit Tane Mahuta, New Zealand’s biggest kauri tree before descending into the
stunning Hokianga Harbour with it’s enormous sand dunes. The northward journey follows
BP - Base Price USD,
90 Mile Beach and ends at Cape Reinga, where the waters of the Pacific Ocean collide with
the Tasman Sea. We then head southwards down the east coast to the original capital, the
harbour town of Russell, where there is a free day to explore secret beaches and climb up to
a vantage point for breathtaking coastal views. We continue to follow the coast southwards
cycling bay to bay through rolling green countryside and lush native bush, to arrive in
Auckland to conclude the tour.
at a glance
DAY 1 2 JANUARY 2020 ARRIVE WELLINGTON. WELCOME DINNER
DAY 2 3 JANUARY 2020 WARM UP RIDE WELLINGTON
DAY 3 4 JANUARY 2020 WELLINGTON TO MASTERTON
DAY 4 5 JANUARY 2020 MASTERTON TO NAPIER
DAY 5 6 JANUARY 2020 REST AND RIDE DAY NAPIER
DAY 6 7 JANUARY 2020 NAPIER TO NATIONAL PARK
DAY 7 8 JANUARY 2020 NATIONAL PARK TO ROTORUA
DAY 8 9 JANUARY 2020 ROTORUA TO THAMES
DAY 9 10 JANUARY 2020 THAMES TO DARGAVILLE
DAY 10 11 JANUARY 2020 DARGAVILLE TO OMAPERE
DAY 11 12 JANUARY 2020 OMAPERE TO AHIPARA
DAY 12 13 JANUARY 2020 AHIPARA TO CAPE REINGA TO TAIPA BAY
DAY 13 14 JANUARY 2020 TAIPA BAY TO RUSSELL
DAY 14 15 JANUARY 2020 RUSSELL - REST DAY
DAY 15 16 JANUARY 2020 RUSSELL TO WHANGAREI
DAY 16 17 JANUARY 2020 WHANGAREI TO AUCKLAND
DAY 17 18 JANUARY 2020 TRIP CONCLUDES AUCKLAND
what’s included
16 nights hotel/motel accommodation, twinshare with ensuite facilities
16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 12 dinners
1 group airport arrival and departure transfer on Days 1 and 17
2 Adventure South NZ qualified driver‑guides
2 Tandems East escorts
Modern and comfortable support vehicle throughout
Riding snacks and energy drinks for riding days
Vehicle snacks and fruit
Te Puia Maori culture dinner and performance
2 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PM
tandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
fast facts Entrance into Wai‑O‑Tapu Thermal Wonderland Park
Martinborough wine tasting
Countries Visited: Public ferry to/from Russell in Bay of Islands
New Zealand Transfer of bike cases from Wellington to Auckland
Department of Conservation and National Park Fees
Speciality bike trailer to carry tandem bikes and luggage
responsible travel Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
We all have a responsibility to minimise the what’s not included
impact we have on the environment and international and domestic airfares and taxes
communities we visit when we travel. arrival and departure transfers if not arriving on group flight on Days 1 and 17
Since our beginnings this has been meals not mentioned in the itinerary
a cornerstone of our company. all beverages, other than breakfast and water while cycling
The New Zealand travel industry has tandem bike and helmets
become a world leader in developing an bike bag/s or panniers for small personal items while cycling
external audit process which monitors optional activities
tourism businesses based on quality, personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
safety and sustainable experiences. travel insurance
We’re very proud to have received visa (if required)
a Gold Qualmark rating, having met tips
standards designed to protect what
makes New Zealand unique and special. detailed itinerary
Being responsible when we travel isn’t
about a single process or project but DAY 1 2 January 2020 Arrive Wellington. Welcome dinner
rather a way of thinking and then doing. On arrival at Wellington International Airport there will be one group pick-up today to transfer to the
We started this journey many years ago hotel. Timing of the group transfer will be determined by the most common flight arrival time, which
and although we are not perfect, we are
is usually before noon. (If you arrive at any other time please make your own way to the group hotel.
Shuttles and taxis are readily available at the airport.) The remainder of the day is free to assemble
striving to continually learn and improve. your bikes and take them for a test ride on the local bike trails. We will meet at the hotel at 6:00pm
for a trip briefing before we enjoy a welcome dinner together at a local restaurant.
trip grading Accommodation:
Moderate Bay Plaza Hotel
To determine the grade of a particular 40 Oriental Parade, Wellington, New Zealand
adventure we consider a number of factors. https://www.bayplaza.co.nz/
These include the condition of the terrain, meals: D
the altitude, the number of pass crossings
and the length of the trip. The Tandems East
Adventure South 2020 is graded moderate.
You will need a good level of fitness and we
suggest 60 minutes of aerobic type exercise,
(either cycling, jogging or swimming) three
times a week for the three months leading
up to your trip. The tour is fully supported
and if at any stage you feel like having a rest
from cycling you will be able to ride in the
support vehicle. The total mileage for the
cycling components is approx 758 miles.
3 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PM
tandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
adventure travel DAY 2 3 January 2020 Warm up ride Wellington
Warm up ride around Wellington. Like much of New Zealand, this region is a land of brilliant
By its very nature adventure travel involves contrasts. Cultural Wellington is known for its cafe culture and is home to art houses, cinemas, and
an element of the unexpected. To get the world-class museums including the Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa Tongarewa.
most out of your adventure it is important
This morning we drive an hour north from Wellington and you’ll arrive at the beautiful Kapiti Coast
that you are mentally flexible, positive and with its laid back and people-free windswept beaches. This stunning area of New Zealand is
eager to take on all the challenges that arise. Wellington’s summer playground and provides plenty of options to ride and explore.
If you are uncertain about your suitability
Accommodation:
for this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent. Bay Plaza Hotel
40 Oriental Parade, Wellington, New Zealand
important note https://www.bayplaza.co.nz/
Cycle distance:
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and Approx distance of 20 miles
may supersede any information in the meals: B,L
current brochure, including but not limited
DAY 3 4 January 2020 Wellington to Masterton
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This We transfer by vehicle out of Wellington to the coastal town of Petone where we commence riding
itinerary may change at any time due to
on quiet back roads through Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt towards Birchville (16-19 mi). We board
the vehicles for the steep and busy climb over the ranges and start riding again from the town of
inclement weather, forces of nature and Masterton and cycle the wonderful road to Castle Point (40 mi). Castlepoint is a small beachside
other circumstances beyond our control. town on the Wairarapa coast where the rugged east coast is guarded by a century-old lighthouse. A
short trek takes you to the top and worth the effort with spectacular views the windswept coast.
Return to Masterton by vehicle to our accommodation.
Accommodation:
Hotel Copthorne Solway Park, Masterton
Cycle distance:
Petone to Birchville - 16 to 19 miles
Masterton to Castle Point - 40 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4 5 January 2020 Masterton to Napier
A cycle section to be between Masterton and Waipukurau. Most likely we ride from Tiraumea via
Wimbledon to Porangahau Beach for lunch and then a section afterwards. Shuttle crew to Napier
where you spend two nights.
Accommodation:
Fountain Court Motel
411 Hastings Street,
Napier, New Zealand
http://www.fountaincourt.co.nz
Cycle distance: 60 miles
meals: B,L,D
4 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
DAY 5 6 January 2020 Rest and ride day Napier
A Rest/Ride day in Napier with a visit to the Gannet Colony and an afternoon or morning ride from
the hotel
Accommodation:
Fountain Court Motel
411 Hastings Street,
Napier, New Zealand
http://www.fountaincourt.co.nz
Cycle distance:
Approx 25 miles
meals: B
DAY 6 7 January 2020 Napier to National Park
A great ride on the recently sealed road from Omahu to Taihape through the Kaweka Forest Park,
scaling “Gentle Annie”. We start early and end in Taihape and shuttle the crew to National Park and
your accommodation.
Accommodation:
Skotel Alpine Resort
Whakapapa Village, SH 48
http://www.skotel.co.nz/
Cycle distance:
80 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7 8 January 2020 National Park to Rotorua
Early morning visit to Whakapapa and the wonderful loop walk to Tawahi Falls or Silica Rapids. We
then shuttle on to Taupo and cycle quiet backroads to Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland or perhaps
Waimangu Thermal Valley. We will be using one of Daniel Carruther’s favourite rides through the
Waikete Valley! We then shuttle the crew to Rotorua for the night.
Accommodation:
237 Fenton Street
Rotorua, 3010
https://www.jetparkrotorua.co.nz
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L
5 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
DAY 8 9 January 2020 Rotorua to Thames
Time in the morning to explore the Whakarewarewa Geothermal park in Rotorua for a couple of hours
and then shuttle towards Matamate where we start riding near Te Poi and ride to Paeroa famous for
the “Lemon and Paeroa” drink and giant bottle.
From there we ride further to Thames (Coromandel Peninsula) where we spend the night.
Accommodation:
608 Tararu Rd, SH 25
Thames , New Zealand
http://www.stayatcoastal.co.nz
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 9 10 January 2020 Thames to Dargaville
We start the day with a short shuttle to Waitakaruru and ride via Miranda and Kawakawa Bay
to Clevedon (63km) We then load up and by pass Auckland on the Motorway and drive north
to Brynderwyn and start cycling towards the west coast. The first part of the ride is rolling hills
through rural communities where we turn off at Matakohe to go to the Kauri Museum for lunch. We
recommend some time off the bike to visit this amazing display which tells the stories of the pioneers
and the history on the Kauri Coast, you can see the world’s largest kauri slab and the uses of the
beautiful kauri timber (optional visit). The afternoon is a flat ride as we follow the Wairoa River into
the small town of Dargaville through prime kumara growing country. Our final 13km is undulating and
brings us to Baylys Beach, a huge expanse of white sands. We have time to relax and walk on the
beach before returning to Dargaville where we spend the night.
Accommodation:
Motel Hobsons Choice
212 Victoria Street, Dargaville,
New Zealand
https://www.hobsonschoicemotel.co.nz/
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 10 11 January 2020 Dargaville to Omapere
The day starts off with an easy 33km as we retrace our steps from Baylys Beach and then head
northwards towards the more challenging hill section in the Waipoua Forest. Here the road becomes
enclosed by thick lush native forest as it winds through magnificent stands of tall kauri, rimu and
northern rata, and offers extensive views in a few places. The sag wagon is as always available to take
the hard work out of the hills. We take a slight side detour to our lunch site at the park headquarters.
The climbing continues after lunch and at the top of the last major climb we take a rest from the bike
to walk through the forest. Here we can admire Tane Mahuta, ‘Lord of the Forest’. With a girth of
13.77m it is New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree. As we leave the forest we are greeted with
views of the surrounding hills and our descent to Pakia Hill Lookout rewards us with spectacular views
6 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
of Hokianga Harbour and the large sand dunes across the bay. We continue to descend into Omapere
and our accommodation for the night. The hotel has a waterfront setting and we will have time to relax
and enjoy this special place. Tonight we are free to make our own dinner arrangements.
Accommodation:
Copthorne Hokianga
19, Omapere Hokianga,
New Zealand 0444
https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/hokianga/
Cycle Distance:
54 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 11 12 January 2020 Omapere to Ahipara
Our scenic ride today starts as we skirt the shores of the beautiful Hokianga Harbour. We pass through
Opononi which became famous when a bottlenose dolphin “Opo” started swimming with children in
the summer of 1955/56. We continue along quiet rural roads to Rawene where we take a car ferry
across the harbour. The road continues to follow the waters edge along the side of the Mangamuka
River, before turning inland and winding its way through the pretty Maungataniwha Ranges. The final
short climb of the day takes us through the Herekino Gorge to emerge on the west coast at Ahipara on
the southern end of the spectacular 90 Mile Beach.
Accommodation:
Ahipara Holiday Park
168 Takahe Street, Ahipara,
Northland, New Zealand
https://www.ahiparaholidaypark.co.nz/
Cycle Distance:
55miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 12 13 January 2020 Ahipara to Cape Reinga to Taipa Bay
A spectacular ride today takes us to New Zealand’s northernmost point at Cape Reinga. Cape Reinga
is considered the separation marker between the Tasman Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to
the east. From the lighthouse it is possible to watch the tidal race, as the two seas clash to create
unsettled waters just off the coast. At the Cape there is a gnarled pohutukawa tree, believed to be over
800 years old. According to Maori legend, the spirits of deceased Maori leap from this tree into the
ocean to return to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki.
We will ride either north to south or south to north to take advantage of tail winds. The road is
straight and undulating with occasional views out to sea. In the afternoon we will drive back down
7 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
the peninsula to Awanui and for those with energy we can cycle to our luxurious resort at Taipa Bay,
otherwise there is the option to hop on the bus. Tonight we drive to the famous fish and chip shop at
Doubtless Bay for a fresh seafood meal in a picturesque waterfront setting.
Accommodation:
Reia Taipa Beach Resort
22 TAIPA POINT RD, TAIPA 0420, NEW ZEALAND
Cycle Distance:
Ahipara to Cape Reinga 77miles
Optional Cycle: Awanui to Taipa Bay 14miles
meals: D
DAY 13 14 January 2020 Taipa Bay to Russell
Today we’ll experience a little more traffic as we head south towards the Bay of Islands. The ride
starts by continuing along the coastal road connecting Doubtless Bay with Mangonui Harbour and then
snakes inland until we reach Whangaroa Harbour. Once again the road weaves through a pretty rural
landscape with some gentle climbs and long descents. We have lunch at a café in Kerikeri opposite
the oldest stone building in New Zealand, the Stone Store which was built in 1832 to store missionary
supplies. We have time to visit the store and small museum. Then there is an option to drive the next
27km section to Paihia as the road can be busy. Once in Paihia we can visit the famous Maori Marae
at Waitangi, scene of the signing of the peace treaty between the Maori and British Government in
1840 (entry fee payable). At Paihia we will take the passenger ferry with our bikes across the harbour
to the pretty seaside township of Russell, once known as the Hell Hole of the Pacific! We will stay at
the historic Duke of Marlborough hotel for the next 2 nights.
Accommodation:
35 The Strand, Russell
Bay of Islands
New Zealand
https://www.theduke.co.nz/
Cycle Distance: Taipa Bay to Paihia – 94km / 58miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 14 15 January 2020 Russell - rest day
Today you are free to relax and explore the area. There are many options for sight-seeing including
Bay of Islands cruises to see the Hole in the Rock and swimming with dolphins, sea kayaking, walks
along the beach, a visit to the National Maori Marae at Waitangi or some cycling on quiet roads behind
Russell. Your guide will be happy to help suggest tours and assist with any bookings. You are free to
make your own lunch and dinner arrangements.
Accommodation:
35 The Strand, Russell
Bay of Islands
New Zealand
https://www.theduke.co.nz/
meals: B
8 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
DAY 15 16 January 2020 Russell to Whangarei
Today is another spectacular coastal ride as we bike from bay to bay. Our undulating route winds
through beautiful northland bush, with views of the bright blue sea and white sandy beaches. The
views from the high points make the climbs well worth while and there are several options for a swim
on the way.
We reach Helena Bay after 55km and then we ride a further 5km uphill to lunch at a lovely cafe and
gallery, well known for its display of Maori crafts. There is the option to hop on the bus for a ride up the
hill. An awesome descent takes us back to the main road at Whakapara where we can cycle or drive
into town. We will have the chance to view the Whangarei Falls on the way into town and relax before
dinner. Tonight we dine on the waterfront at the local marina.
Accommodation:
Discovery Settlers Hotel
1 Hatea Drive, Whangarei
www.discoveryhotelswhangarei.co.nz/
Cycle Distance: Russell to Whakapara – 45miles
Optional ride Whakapara to Whangarei – 22miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 16 17 January 2020 Whangarei to Auckland
The first 11km is along busy roads out of Whangarei, so there is an option to drive south to set off
cycling from Puwera. Today, another day of quiet rural roads, rolling green hills and undulating cycling
takes us to Paparoa where we can retrace our steps from the ride earlier in the trip to Brynderwyn.
We then transfer by vehicle to Waipu to avoid the highway. From here we cycle along the coast road
getting glimpses of the sea from behind the sand dunes and arrive at the beach at Waipu Cove. We
continue to the stunning Langs Beach before our road weaves uphill onto the headland through lush
native bush. We then descend to the seaside resort of Mangawhai Heads where we then load up
the bikes and drive back Auckland, a journey of approx 1.5-2 hours. Tonight is our last group dinner
together and we celebrate our cycling achievements with a special celebratory farewell dinner.
Accommodation:
Auckland City Hotel
157 Hobson Street,
Auckland, New Zealand
https://achhobson.co.nz/
Cycle Distance: Puwera to Paparoa - 28miles
Optional Paparoa to Brynderwyn - 12miles
Waipu to Mangawhai Heads - 20milesWe load up the bikes and drive back Auckland, a journey of
approx 1.5-2 hours
meals: B,L,D
DAY 17 18 January 2020 Trip concludes Auckland
It is time for a sad farewell as trip arrangements end after breakfast this morning. There will be
one group transfer to the airport, the timing of which will be determined by the most common flight
departure time. (If you depart at any other time please make your own way to the airport. Shuttles,
buses and taxis are readily available.) Additional accommodation can be arranged in Auckland if
required (own expense).
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
9 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
country information
Stretching North to South for over 2000 km, and split into two main islands ‑ the North and the
South Islands ‑ New Zealand is a country of diverse landforms. From the Pacific Island beaches
and rolling farmlands in the north, to the volcanic plateau and then onto the soaring mountains
within view of the sea in the south, and the sub‑Antarctic islands that dot the South Island
coastline, the contrasts are many.
The South Island is the 12th largest island in the world. The west coast is dominated by the
Southern Alps, which contain more mountains than the European Alps altogether, and home to
New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook (3754m / 12,316 ft). The Main Divide, the chain
of peaks that forms the backbone of the Alps from Arthur’s Pass to Fiordland, splits the South
Island into east and west. Several ice ages, and the fact that two continental plates are sliding
past each other forming the Southern Alps, means that the scenery is as rugged as the New
Zealand fauna and flora is unique. The largest city in the South Island is Christchurch.
The North Island is the smaller of the two main islands of New Zealand. Its northern location
means it enjoys a warmer, more temperate climate than much of the South Island, and is much
more vastly populated. The centre of the island is primarily a volcanic landscape with vast
forests, volcanic peaks, and picturesque lakes. The eastern side of the island is covered with
vineyards. Auckland, also known as the ‘City of Sails’, is the largest city of New Zealand and
found on the North Island.
With a population of 4.0 million people, the wilderness areas of New Zealand are many as most
‘Kiwis’ now live in an urban situation near the coast. The Maori are the indigenous people of the
land and they named it Aotearoa ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ upon their arrival 1000 years
ago. Europeans settled in the early 1800s and the country is alive today with a market driven
economy and a blend of European and Asia/Pacific influences to create a buoyant South Pacific
culture.
climate
As a general rule, November to April are the most ideal months for travelling in New Zealand’s
stunning outdoors. One of the most important things travellers need to know about the New
Zealand climate is that it’s a maritime climate, as opposed to the continental climate typical of
larger landmasses.
Thanks to its position in the path of the ‘Roaring 40s’ and mountainous terrain, New Zealand’s
weather can frequently change with amazing rapidity. Because the weather can change
so unexpectedly you should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather
conditions. This basically means having a good waterproof jacket and some warm clothing. You
don’t need to bring your winter wardrobe but a good fleece/jumper and good thermals are a
must.
The temperature during the South Island summers range from 10‑30 ºC, with a pleasant 40‑
50% humidity. Higher altitudes are always considerably cooler and snowfall is not uncommon
even in summer. The Southern Alps act as a barrier to the moisture laden winds coming west
across the Tasman Sea, creating a wet climate on the west side of the mountains and a drier
climate on the east side. The geography also creates a wind pattern, which can in summer be
very hot, dry and fierce. Maximum temperatures we may encounter range up to 30°C. Minimum
temperatures expected in the Southern Alps in Summer time are around ‑5°C. Weather is
an integral facet of any mountain range and getting to understand and work with this major
environmental factor is what will make you more prepared for your tour – any questions about
what to expect on your tour talk to one of our sales team.
a typical day
Each day will be different but you can expect to make the most of every daylight hour. Most
days will involve a combination of cycling and travel time, depending on our destination for the
10 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
evening. Intense cycling days are usually followed by an easier cycling day or a rest day. On rest
days there will be options to relax completely, do some walking to give your cycling muscles
a break or for the really hardy there may also be some more cycling on offer. Meals will mainly
be at your hotel/motel or at a nearby cafe or restaurant. There will be occasional picnic lunches
prepared by your guides.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
pre and post tour accommodation
Pre‑tour accommodation in Wellington and post‑tour accommodation in Auckland can be
arranged at the group hotels. Please note that availability is extremely tight during December
and January as it is peak holiday season in New Zealand. We strongly recommend making your
arrangements well in advance to avoid missing out.
We have provisionally booked 1 nights pre‑tour accommodation at the Bay Plaza Hotel in
Wellington. If you would like to stay at this hotel, please let us know and we will book you a
room. Please do not contact the hotel directly. We will need to know before your final balance
is due. The cost will be NZ$135 (approx. US$90) for a standard studio room per night. You can
read more info about this hotel on their website at https://www.bayplaza.co.nz/
what you carry
You will need to carry your own personal items while cycling, such as a light rain jacket,
sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses. If you cycle with a bike bag/pannier you will need to bring
your own. You will have access to the support vehicle during the day if you wish to leave any
other items on board.
equipment required
Tandem bike and helmets. Please note that your bike case/s will be transferred from Wellington
to Auckland separately to the tour. You will not have access to your bike case/s during the tour.
protecting the environment
In a world where more and more rubbish is produced every year we are trying to do our little
bit to help the planet. We encourage you to please bring your own water bottle. If you are a
keen coffee or tea drinker you might like to bring your own reusable cup, as there are many
opportunities along the tour to get take‑away drinks. Also if you think you might do some
shopping, it could be useful to carry small foldable reusable shopping bags to reduce the need
for plastic bags.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with the new and exciting trip releases, special offers plus more please
subscribe to our free e‑newsletter at www.adventuresouth.co.nz
11 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMtandems east adventure south
nz north island ride 2020 (a)
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Wellington to Auckland and beyond
Or why not view past travellers images and join in on the conversation at http://www.facebook.
com/AdventureSouthNZ
follow us
Follow us on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/AdventureSouthNZ
how to book
To book your Tandems East cycling tour with Adventure South you will need to complete a
booking form which can be download from our website:
https://www.adventuresouth.co.nz/Contact/How‑to‑Book
and provide your credit card details to pay a deposit of USD$1000 per person.
On completion, please email or post the form to Adventure South along with your
non‑refundable deposit.
For any further information, you can call us for free from the USA on 1866 479 9827 or anywhere
else +64 3 942 1222 or email us at info@adventuresouth.co.nz
12 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 10/12/2018 2:26:37 PMYou can also read
