Alps to Ocean Bike Ride: A Journey Through New Zealand’s Natural Masterpiece

Why Cycle the Alps to Ocean Trail?

While driving can offer glimpses of the South Island's beauty, cycling immerses you in it. The slow, deliberate pace of biking allows you to truly appreciate the details: the smell of wildflowers, the sound of flowing water, and the ever-changing play of light across the landscape. From mountain passes to rolling hills, each turn of the wheel reveals a new and captivating view.

Cycling also gives access to areas unreachable by car, such as tranquil forest paths and remote lakeshores. This intimate connection with the land is what makes the Alps to Ocean Bike Ride so special.

How Long Will it Take?

The Alps to Ocean Bike Ride typically takes 4 to 6 days to complete for most cyclists, depending on fitness levels, preferred pace, and how many stops are made to enjoy the scenery and attractions along the way. Here's a breakdown of options:

4-Day Itinerary

• Who It's For: Experienced and fit cyclists who want to cover more distance each day and spend less time lingering at stops.
• Daily Distance: ~75–90 km (47–56 miles) per day.
• Pace: Fast, with shorter breaks and fewer overnight stops.

5-6 Day Itinerary

• Who It's For: Most riders, including those who want a more relaxed pace or have a moderate fitness level.
• Daily Distance: ~50–65 km (31–40 miles) per day.
• Pace: Balanced, with time for sightseeing, detours, and enjoying local food and wine.

Accommodation and Transport Add-Ons

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, stretching from Aoraki/Mount Cook to Oamaru, offers a diverse array of accommodation options catering to various preferences and budgets. Riders can choose from motels, bed and breakfasts, farm stays, holiday homes, and luxury lodges, with many providers offering packages that include meals, especially in rural areas where dining options may be limited.

To enhance the cycling experience, some services offer comprehensive packages that include bike hire, luggage transfers, and car storage, allowing riders to focus solely on the trail. Accommodation options are often categorized into affordable, standard, and superior tiers, enabling cyclists to tailor their journey according to their comfort preferences and budget.

The Adventure Begins: Mount Cook Village

Your journey kicks off at the base of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. This stunning alpine village is the perfect prelude to the adventure, surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Before you even start pedaling, the experience begins with a helicopter flight over the Tasman River, offering unparalleled aerial views of Mount Cook’s majestic summit and the sprawling glacial valley below.

This unique start sets the tone for the ride, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of the land you’ll soon traverse on two wheels. It’s an exhilarating way to connect with the enormity of the Southern Alps before descending to the trailhead.

The Route: Highlights and Experiences

1. Lake Pukaki

The first leg of the journey takes you along the shores of Lake Pukaki, a mesmerizing turquoise body of water fed by glacial runoff. The color of the lake is almost surreal, thanks to the finely ground rock particles known as glacial flour.

Cycling along this lake with Mount Cook as your backdrop feels like riding through a postcard. Be sure to stop at viewpoints to soak in the scenery and capture some photos.

2. Twizel: A Charming Stop

After Lake Pukaki, the trail leads to Twizel, a small, vibrant town known for its connection to the Mackenzie Basin's hydroelectric history. Twizel is a great place to pause, refuel, and explore. For "Lord of the Rings" fans, this area is home to several filming locations, including the epic Battle of Pelennor Fields.

3. Lake Ohau: Serenity in Nature

The trail continues to Lake Ohau, a peaceful spot surrounded by native beech forest and alpine peaks. Here, the cycling path meanders close to the lake’s edge, offering a tranquil ride with panoramic views.

For those who enjoy a bit of luxury, the Lake Ohau Lodge is a perfect place to spend the night, with its cozy accommodations and hearty meals. Waking up to sunrise over the lake is an unforgettable experience.

4. Omarama: The Gliding Capital of the World

Next, you’ll arrive in Omarama, a town famed for its stunning landscapes and opportunities for gliding. Nestled at the foot of the hills, Omarama is also known for its Hot Tubs, where you can soak your tired muscles while gazing at the surrounding mountains.

For a unique geological experience, visit the Clay Cliffs, towering formations of silt and gravel carved by ancient rivers. These natural wonders are well worth the short detour.

5. Kurow and the Waitaki Valley

The trail then descends into the Waitaki Valley, a region of fertile vineyards and rich Maori and European history. In Kurow, you’ll find boutique wineries that offer tastings of the local Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Cycling through the valley, you’ll follow the Waitaki River, which is dotted with historic bridges and dams. The region’s rolling hills and golden fields create a picturesque backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the alpine scenery earlier in the ride.

6. Oamaru: A Charming Finish

The journey concludes in Oamaru, a quaint coastal town known for its Victorian architecture and thriving arts scene. Oamaru’s Steampunk HQ is a must-visit for fans of whimsical, retro-futuristic art.

End your ride by visiting the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, where you can watch the world’s smallest penguins return to shore after a day at sea. The sight of these adorable creatures waddling ashore is a delightful way to finish your adventure.

What Makes This Trail Unique?

The Alps to Ocean Bike Ride stands out not just for its landscapes but also for its versatility. The trail is divided into manageable sections, allowing riders to customize their experience. Whether you choose to tackle the entire route over several days or pick a few highlights for a shorter trip, the ride offers something for everyone.

Additionally, the trail is well-maintained and supported, with bike rentals, shuttles, and accommodations available along the way. This makes planning and logistics straightforward, even for first-time visitors.