Tease nz north island ride 2020 group 2 - Tandems East
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tease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
trip highlights
View Tane Mahuta, “Lord of the Forest”
the world’s largest kauri tree
Admire Cape Reinga, the northern most point of NZ
Cycle backroads with stunning coastal views
Spend 2 days relaxing in the magical Bay of Islands
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
Descend the historic Gentle Annie hill from the Central Plateau
Wander through Napier’s historic art deco quarter
and Hawkes Bay known for its fine wines
Spectacular rural and coastal riding from Napier
to Wellington with magnificent views
Wine tasting in Martinborough Trip Duration 17 days Trip Code: SOG5543
Grade Moderate
Special welcome and farewell dinners
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 TEASE NZ North Island Ride 2020 ‑ “Small Groups, Great Guides, Superb Holidays.”
Group 2 adventure. It’s a superb adventure and we hope you can join This comment encapsulates an Adventure South active holiday in New
us. Adventure South has been operating active holidays throughout Zealand. The phrase was not born from a long and tortuous strategic
New Zealand since 1992. Thanks to our experience we’re confident planning process, it came from a client review! We could not have
to say that we offer the very best cycling, trekking and adventure said it any better. Our client feedback also confirms that what helps
travel itineraries available in New Zealand today. make our holidays different are the quality of our professional guides.
There’s simply no other collection of New Zealand itineraries that can They share their humour, compassion and wilderness experience to
match the geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of our ensure that you have a great vacation and the right degree of personal
active New Zealand adventure holidays. An Adventure South holiday challenge.
aims to take you beyond the more popular and busy trails to provide On an Adventure South tour you can also expect the right, proven
you with a truly unique New Zealand wilderness experience. equipment is provided for your tour; the food is delicious, plentiful and
We’re here to show you that there are many, many more trails and can be catered to your dietary requests; your guides are all First Aid
cycling routes in our great country that are the new frontiers in trained; that the itinerary you have chosen has been carefully crafted
adventure tourism ‑ beautiful, scenic, and without the crowds. We from decades of personal experience in the New Zealand wilderness,
aim to explore these delicate environments in a sustainable manner not from a guide book recommendation.
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 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PM
tease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
trip cost the trip
Joining Wellington from:$5800 Cycling the length of the North Island this itinerary has you riding quiet backroads from
Auckland on the Hauraki Gulf all the way to the most northerly point in New Zealand, Cape
All prices are per person Reinga before riding south via the culturally rich and geographically varied towns of Rotorua
and Taupo and then onto the nations capital, Wellington.
options & supplements Farewelling Auckland we ride roads north through old growth forests and visit Tane Mahuta,
New Zealand’s biggest kauri tree before descending into the stunning Hokianga Harbour
trip dates with it’s enormous sand dunes and significant history as Kupe, the founder of Aotearoa/New
Zealand is believed to have left from here to return to his land of Hawaiki.
2020 21 Jan - 06 Feb The northward journey follows 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
important notes 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 or enjoy the
BP - Base Price USD, many cafes and restaurants.
We continue to follow the coast southwards cycling bay to bay through rolling green
countryside and lush native bush. We skirt around Auckland by vehicle then ride towards
the Coromandel Peninsula where small villages, country roads and a stunning coastline and
beaches combine.
Riding to the Central Plateau to the thermal towns of Rotorua and Taupo we will ride and walk
amongst the varied landscapes to fully explore and appreciate the landscapes and rich Maori
culture and history.
Farewelling the thermal region and iconic views of the volcanoes we descend from the
Central Plateau via the Gentle Annie Hill towards the coast where 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.
Heading south towards Martinborough, where Pinot Noir, excellent restaurants and great
riding promise to ease you into a very happy state of mind. We cross the Remutaka Pass
into the Hutt Valley where we ride towards Wellington to have a final celebratory dinner and
conclude the tour.
at a glance
DAY 1 21 JANUARY 2020 ARRIVE AUCKLAND, ASSEMBLE BIKES
DAY 2 22 JANUARY 2020 WARM UP RIDE AUCKLAND
DAY 3 23 JANUARY 2020 AUCKLAND TO DARGAVILLE VIA BAYLYS BEACH
DAY 4 24 JANUARY 2020 DARGAVILLE TO OMAPERE
DAY 5 25 JANUARY 2020 OMAPERE TO AHIPARA
DAY 6 26 JANUARY 2020 AHIPARA TO CAPE REINGA TO TAIPA BAY
DAY 7 27 JANUARY 2020 TAIPA BAY TO RUSSELL
DAY 8 28 JANUARY 2020 RUSSELL - REST DAY
DAY 9 29 JANUARY 2020 RUSSELL TO WHANGAREI
DAY 10 30 JANUARY 2020 WHANGAREI TO THAMES
DAY 11 31 JANUARY 2020 THAMES TO ROTORUA
DAY 12 1 FEBRUARY 2020 ROTORUA TO NATIONAL PARK
DAY 13 2 FEBRUARY 2020 NATIONAL PARK TO NAPIER
DAY 14 3 FEBRUARY 2020 REST AND RIDE DAY NAPIER
DAY 15 4 FEBRUARY 2020 NAPIER TO MASTERTON
DAY 16 5 FEBRUARY 2020 MASTERTON TO WELLINGTON
DAY 17 6 FEBRUARY 2020 TRIP CONCLUDES WELLINGTON
2 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PM
tease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
fast facts what’s included
16 nights hotel/motel accommodation, twinshare with ensuite facilities
Countries Visited: 16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 12 dinners
New Zealand 1 group airport arrival and departure transfer on Days 1 and 17
2 Adventure South NZ qualified driver‑guides
2 Tandems East escorts
responsible travel Modern and comfortable support vehicle throughout
We all have a responsibility to minimise the Riding snacks and energy drinks for riding days
impact we have on the environment and Vehicle snacks and fruit
communities we visit when we travel. Te Puia Maori culture dinner and performance
Entrance into Wai‑O‑Tapu Thermal Wonderland Park
Since our beginnings this has been
Martinborough wine tasting
a cornerstone of our company.
Public ferry to/from Russell in Bay of Islands
The New Zealand travel industry has Transfer of bike cases from Auckland to Wellington
become a world leader in developing an Department of Conservation and National Park Fees
external audit process which monitors Speciality bike trailer to carry tandem bikes and luggage
tourism businesses based on quality, Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
safety and sustainable experiences.
We’re very proud to have received what’s not included
a Gold Qualmark rating, having met international and domestic airfares and taxes
standards designed to protect what arrival and departure transfers if not arriving on group flight on Days 1 and 17
makes New Zealand unique and special. meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Being responsible when we travel isn’t all beverages, other than breakfast and water while cycling
about a single process or project but tandem bike and helmets
rather a way of thinking and then doing. bike bag/s or panniers for small personal items while cycling
We started this journey many years ago optional activities
and although we are not perfect, we are personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
striving to continually learn and improve. travel insurance
visa (if required)
trip grading tips
Moderate
detailed itinerary
To determine the grade of a particular
adventure we consider a number of factors. DAY 1 21 January 2020 Arrive Auckland, assemble bikes
These include the condition of the terrain, On arrival at Auckland International Airport there will be one group pick-up today to transfer to the
the altitude, the number of pass crossings hotel. Timing of the group transfer will be determined by the most common flight arrival time, which
and the length of the trip. The Tandems East is usually before noon. (If you arrive at any other time please make your own way to the group hotel.
Adventure South 2020 is graded moderate. Shuttles and taxis are readily available at the airport.) The remainder of the day is free to assemble
You will need a good level of fitness and we your bikes and take them for a test ride on the local bike trails. We will meet at the hotel at 6:00pm
suggest 60 minutes of aerobic type exercise, for a trip briefing before we enjoy a welcome dinner together at a local restaurant.
(either cycling, jogging or swimming) three Accommodation:
times a week for the three months leading Auckland City Hotel
up to your trip. The tour is fully supported 157 Hobson Street,
and if at any stage you feel like having a rest
from cycling you will be able to ride in the
Auckland, New Zealand
support vehicle. The total mileage for the https://achhobson.co.nz/
cycling components is approx 758 miles. meals: D
3 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PM
tease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
adventure travel DAY 2 22 January 2020 Warm up ride Auckland
Warm up ride around Auckland. Like much of New Zealand, this region is a land of brilliant
By its very nature adventure travel involves contrasts.
an element of the unexpected. To get the
Accommodation:
most out of your adventure it is important
that you are mentally flexible, positive and Auckland City Hotel
eager to take on all the challenges that arise. 157 Hobson Street,
If you are uncertain about your suitability Auckland, New Zealand
for this trip we recommend that you speak https://achhobson.co.nz/
with your consultant or travel agent.
Cycle distance:
Approx distance of XXX miles
important note meals: B,L
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and DAY 3 23 January 2020 Auckland to Dargaville via Baylys Beach
may supersede any information in the We drive northwards out of Auckland and head to Brynderwyn (a drive of approx 2 hours) and start
current brochure, including but not limited cycling towards the west coast. The first part of the ride is rolling hills through rural communities
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary where we turn off at Matakohe to go to the Kauri Museum for lunch. We recommend some time off
should be seen as a guide only. This the bike to visit this amazing display which tells the stories of the pioneers and the history on the
itinerary may change at any time due to
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
inclement weather, forces of nature and Dargaville through prime kumara growing country. Our final 13km is undulating and brings us to
other circumstances beyond our control. Baylys Beach, a huge expanse of white sands. We have time to relax and walk on the beach before
dinner, then a sunset walk to view the sun setting into the ocean is an evening must do.
Accommodation:
Hobsons Choice Hotel
212 Victoria St, Dargaville 0310
Cycle Distance: Brynderwyn to Baylys Beach – 52miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4 24 January 2020 Dargaville to Omapere
The day starts off with an easy as we retrace our steps 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
of Hokianga Harbour and the large sand dunes across the bay. This area has great significance
as it was where the first Maori explorer, Kupe landed more than a thousand years ago, followed
approximately 200 years ago by some of the first European settlers to New Zealand. We continue
4 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PM
tease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
to descend into the small town Opononi 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:
Opononi Hotel
19 State Highway 12, RD 3,
Opononi, Northland, New Zealand
http://www.opononihotel.com
Cycle Distance:
54miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5 25 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 6 26 January 2020 Ahipara to Cape Reinga to Taipa Bay
After the strenuous ride yesterday we have a leisurely morning. We will stretch our legs with a
walk on part of the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks (so named for their stand-out
scenery and special significance as natural wilderness environments). At noon we rendezvous with
the crew of the “Navigator”, a luxurious boat that will be our home for the night. We cruise out into
the beautiful Doubtful Sound, formed by glaciers and far less-visited than the more well known
and more accessible Milford Sound. We have opportunities to go kayaking or on a nature tour to
meet dolphins and fur seals. Then relax into an evening of entertainment, fine food and comfortable
sleep in our private cabins. In the heart of the wilderness of the Fiordland National Park we are
constantly surrounded by magnificent views of the mountains, the sunset is superb and we feel
quite insignificant amongst this grandeur.
Accommodation:
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7 27 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
5 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
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 8 28 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
DAY 9 29 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 10 30 January 2020 Whangarei to Thames
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
6 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
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:
608 Tararu Rd, SH 25
Thames , New Zealand
http://www.stayatcoastal.co.nz
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 11 31 January 2020 Thames to Rotorua
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:
237 Fenton Street
Rotorua, 3010
https://www.jetparkrotorua.co.nz
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 12 1 February 2020 Rotorua to National Park
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:
Skotel Alpine Resort
Whakapapa Village, SH 48
http://www.skotel.co.nz/
Cycle distance:
50 miles
meals: B,L
7 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
DAY 13 2 February 2020 National Park to Napier
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:
Fountain Court Motel
411 Hastings Street,
Napier, New Zealand
http://www.fountaincourt.co.nz
Cycle distance:
80 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 14 3 February 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 15 4 February 2020 Napier to Masterton
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:
Solway Park Copthorne
High Street, Masterton, New Zealand 5810
Cycle distance: 60 miles
meals: B,L,D
DAY 16 5 February 2020 Masterton to Wellington
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
8 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
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 6 February 2020 Trip concludes Wellington
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 Wellington if
required (own expense).
Accommodation:
Bay Plaza Hotel
40-44 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, 6011
Wellington
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.
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
9 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
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
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.
10 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMtease nz north island
ride 2020 ‑ group 2
Encounter rich Maori culture and a variety of stunning landscapes on this
scenic cycling adventure from Auckland to Wellington and beyond
pre and post tour accommodation
Pre‑tour accommodation in Auckland and post‑tour accommodation in Wellington 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 Auckland City Hotel in
Auckland. 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$180 (approx. US$120 at the current exchange rate) for a standard studio
room per night. You can read more info about this hotel on their website at 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
Or why not view past travellers images and join in on the conversation at http://www.facebook.
com/AdventureSouthNZ
follow us
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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: www.adventuresouth.co.nz/Contact/
How‑to‑Book
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
11 – © 2018 Adventure South - Phil Wyndham 11/9/2018 3:17:54 PMYou can also read
