Marlborough and West Coast Cycle

Name: Marlborough and West Coast Cycle
Brand: Adventure South
SKU: MBW
Rating: 4.89 (35 reviews)

Cycle the alpine passes and coastal rides of the upper South Island

The rugged and spectacular West Coast of the South Island | David Wall

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Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ! | Sandra Appleby

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Seaside views from the bike | Carol Prantner

Marlborough vineyard | Carol Prantner

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Undulating roads are the best! | Carol Prantner

Nothing like a fresh seafood platter | Carol Prantner

View of town and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges from Kaikoura lookout | Sandra Appleby

The scenery is just as good as the cycling | Stef Woodward

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki | Stef Woodward

Coastal ride on the West Coast | Carol Prantner

The rugged and spectacular West Coast of the South Island | David Wall

WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM

WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.04 PM (2)

Beware of Kiwis on the West Coast of NZ! | Sandra Appleby

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Seaside views from the bike | Carol Prantner

Marlborough vineyard | Carol Prantner

WhatsApp Image 2026-03-20 at 3.31.05 PM (1)

Undulating roads are the best! | Carol Prantner

Nothing like a fresh seafood platter | Carol Prantner

View of town and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges from Kaikoura lookout | Sandra Appleby

The scenery is just as good as the cycling | Stef Woodward

Marlborough Sounds | Carol Prantner

Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki | Stef Woodward

Coastal ride on the West Coast | Carol Prantner

moderate to challenging

Traveller Rating

Activities

7 day road cycle

Accommodation

6 nights hotel/motel

Meals

3 Dinners
7 Lunches
6 Breakfasts

7 Days

View all pricing

View Inclusions

Trip Code: MBW

Trip highlights

Challenge yourself on this scenic 7 day road cycle adventure at the top of NZ's South Island
Experience one of the best coastal rides in the world which takes us to the amazing geology of Punakaiki and its Pancake Rocks
Relax tired muscles in the hot pools of Hanmer Springs
Cycle over the Southern Alps via the picturesque Rahu Saddle
Travel through beautiful rain forest clad mountains and along scenic river valleys
Discover the beauty of Queen Charlotte Drive as we cycle alongside the Marlborough Sounds
Swim with the dolphins or join a whale watch tour, if operating, in Kaikoura (optional)

Exploring the northern regions of the South Island, this action packed cycling tour is sure to inspire as you cycle past bush clad lakes and tracks, along wild coastlines as well as sample some of New Zealand's very best wines! From Christchurch, you'll cycle towards Hanmer Springs to soak in the outdoor hot pools and experience their therapeutic qualities. Returning to the saddle at Springs Junction, pedal along beech forest lined roads towards the rugged beauty of the 'Wild' West Coast. From here the scenery, not the cycling, will leave you breathless as you head north along the flatter, picturesque landscapes of Lake Poerua, Rotomanu and Moana, nestled between the Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Continue along one of the best coastal rides in the world before encountering the natural blowholes at Punakaiki, the mighty Buller Gorge as well as the serene beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound, stopping to sample the produce at local wineries along the way. As you head back towards Christchurch along the stunning Kaikoura coastline, dotted with fur seals, there is the option to take an early morning whale watching cruise, if operating, to provide a fitting finale to this memorable cycling adventure.

Carbon Footprint

27kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(164kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Day 1
Christchurch to Hanmer Springs

After a pick up from a central Christchurch location, we drive out of the city and start to cycle. The Canterbury Plains are vast and with Hanmer Springs being our objective it's a matter of turning the pedals and watching the road slip by. By late afternoon we arrive at the thermal resort with a chance to soak in the hot pools before dinner. (www.hanmersprings.co.nz). Cycling Distance: up to 50km / 40miles

Meals: L

Day 2
Hanmer Springs to Moana Lake Brunner

This morning the beautiful beech forests of the Lewis Pass beckon. By cycle and coach we gradually climb over the picturesque Lewis and Rahu Saddles, after each climb is a downhill rush with long sweeping corners. On beautifully sealed roads with lush temperate rainforest lining the roadside we ride until we reach the rugged beauty of the West Coast Region. The afternoon sees us finish our ride at a country pub called "Formerly the Blackball Hilton." There is a story to be told over your drinks before we drive to Moana, nestled between the spectacular Southern Alps and tranquil Lake Brunner. Cycling Distance: morning – up to 45km / 28miles Optional afternoon ride – 30km / 19miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 3
Moana Lake Brunner to Punakaiki

Heading out of Moana, we follow an undulating and winding course through the picturesque Arnold Valley to Stillwater. A flat ride beside the banks of the Grey River takes us out to the coastal township of Greymouth. One of the trips many highlights is the coastal riding as we head along the coast to the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. The riding is pure quality – with enough hills to keep you honest. Cycling Distance: 76km / 47miles

Meals: B,L

Day 4
Punakaiki to St Arnaud

Today we cycle up the Paparoa National Park coastline with magnificent ocean, rainforest, and mountain views. There are plenty of photo opportunities on this scenic and gently undulating ride, through to Constant Bays near perfect shelter from the West Coasts wild seas. Once back in the coach we enjoy the Buller Gorge with snapshot vistas of the Buller River whose white water attracts many a rafting and kayak enthusiast. Climbing out of the gorge we have a great final ride into St Arnaud, drawing us into the heartland of the Nelson Lakes National Park. Off the bike, a short walk takes in nearby Lake Rotoiti, with its famous jetty. This area is known as a “mainland island” and the results of the pest eradication programme means that the native birdlife is flourishing. Cycling Distance: - up to 75km, 46 miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 5
St Arnaud to Nelson

Early risers are encouraged to take a walk into the nearby native forest at sunrise to hear the native birds & their “dawn chorus”. From behind St Arnaud we cycle the sealed forestry roads on a long mainly downhill ride towards the coast. We continue along a quiet road beside the beautiful Motueka River and through an area known for growing hops. We enter the township of Motueka and transfer by coach to nearby Nelson where we have time to explore the arts and craft capital of New Zealand. Cycling Distance: up to 97km / 60miles

Meals: B,L

Day 6
Nelson to Kaikoura

By coach we motor over the steep outlying hills to arrive at the start of the beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive, which skirts the Marlborough Sounds into Picton. From here it is a short hop over the hill to Blenheim, NZ’s premier wine producing region. After a great lunch at one of the countries leading wineries, we head south down the dramatic East Coast to reach Kaikoura, home of whale watching and swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. Cycling Distance: up to 54km / 34 miles

Meals: B,L,D

Day 7
Kaikoura to Christchurch

For the early risers, an optional chance to view one of the great natural sights as whales surface against the spectacular mountain backdrop of the seaward Kaikoura Mountains (www.whalewatch.co.nz). This is only possible if the operator is running their dawn departure which is not guaranteed. Swimming with or watching dolphins is also highly recommended (www.dolphinencounter.co.nz). Due to the popularity, however, it is essential to make a booking well in advance. Following a late breakfast we head further south cycling some of the great back roads and enjoying the scenery as we eventually return to Christchurch and drop you in the downtown area around 6pm. Cycling Distance: up to 60km / 37miles

Meals: B,L

Inclusions

What's included

Tasty cafe breakfasts (x6), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x3) catered to all dietary requirements
6 nights comfortable hotel/motel/lodge ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
Transport from Christchurch (return)
Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

What's not included

Bike hire (including helmet)
International or domestic flights and taxes
Arrival and departure transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages, other then breakfast
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Optional activities (eg. Whale watching at Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs thermal pools)
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Travel insurance
Visa (if required)

About Your Leader

Our guides are one of our biggest assets and we pride ourselves on their level of quality and high standards. Once the trip reaches 8 people, we provide you with two of our expert guides to maximise your enjoyment and overall experience. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of our guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but our guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Accommodation

Scenic Punakaiki Hotel

This well appointed 4 star hotel is located right on the beachfront with views of the Tasman Sea, Punakaiki Beach and surrounding rainforest. It is located just a few minutes walk from the famous Pancake Rocks. The restaurant and bar have large ocean facing windows and a open fire for cooler days. Offering large ensuite studio rooms with tea and coffee making facilities, some rooms have a small kitchenette.

Motels

Often family run, motels range from 3 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Rooms are spacious, warm and comfortable and they have ensuite bathrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Alpine Lodge St Arnaud

Situated at 640m above sea level in the alpine resort of St Arnaud, this comfortable lodge is nestled amongst the beech forest and towering peaks of the adjacent Nelson Lakes National Park. Comfortable rooms offer mountain views, the kitchen prides itself on producing simple, modern European dishes and there is a cosy restaurant and bar on site.

Bike information

Avanti Gran durance 3 (Road Bike) - Sizes S, M, ML, L, XL:

The Avanti Gran Durance 3 is our dedicated aluminium road bike — lightweight, fast, and an epic fit for Aotearoa New Zealand’s big open roads. It’s kitted out with Shimano’s GRX 2x11 (46/30 - 11-34) groupset, hydraulic disc brakes, and carbon forks for a smooth, responsive ride across changing road surfaces.

The 32 mm tyres strike a great balance between speed and grip, and the relaxed frame geometry suits all-day riders who want performance without the pain. Whether you’re spinning along Queen Charlotte Drive or climbing through the misty saddles of the West Coast, this is a great choice for our classic road tours.

Sinch E-Bike Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL*

Designed specifically for Adventure South, our fleet of Sinch e-bikes is built to handle Aotearoa New Zealand’s cycle trails with ease.

These pedal-assist bikes take the effort out of hills and longer rides, thanks to a smooth and reliable Shimano motor system and a comfortable, upright riding position.

For premium comfort and control, they are equipped with:

• Large 630Wh battery

• Electronic and optional automatic gear shifting

• Swept-back handlebars with ergonomic comfort grips

• 120mm front air suspension

• 20mm suspension dropper seat post

• Hydraulic disc brakes

• Adjustable handlebar stem

All sizes apart from XL feature an exceptionally low step-through frame (40cm) and 27.5” x 2.35” tyres.

*The XL bikes feature a step-over frame with 29” x 2.4” tyres for added stability and performance.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth Muster, or cycling through Otago’s stunning gorges, our e-bikes are designed to help you enjoy every moment of the ride.

Merida Big Nine 200 (Hardtail Mountain bike NOT AN E-BIKE) - Sizes S, M, L & XL:

Our Merida Big Nine 200 hardtails are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — reliable, capable, and comfortable. The lightweight aluminium frame and 29x2.4'' tires roll efficiently over a wide range of terrain, while the air suspension fork smooths out bumps and rough tracks. A modern, big range 1x10 drivetrain keeps shifting simple and intuitive, letting you focus on the ride ahead.

Hydraulic disc brakes give you reliable stopping power, and the rear rack fitted with one of our rack bags (included in hire) is ideal for stashing your layers, lunch or camera. With a relaxed upright riding position, this is a great choice for those who want a traditional, pedal-powered ride without sacrificing comfort.

With cleverly engineered geometry, this is a great choice for those who appreciate an engaging pedal powered ride without sacrificing the slightest bit of comfort.

Whether you’re cruising through the Roxburgh Gorge, flying across the Shotover Bridge, or pedalling beside the wild surf of the Taranaki coast, the Merida Big Nine 200 is a dependable trail mate.

* We have step-through bikes available on request, subject to limited availability. These are Avanti Discovery models.

Grading

moderate to challenging
4

To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the terrain, the altitude, the amount of climbing, the types of roads and the length of the trip. The Marlborough & West Coast Cycle is graded moderate to challenging. You will need to be a competent road rider with stamina and a good level of fitness, you should be able to cycle comfortably for up to 6-8 hours or around 100km/60miles per day, day after day, with some extended uphill ascents. There are some long days and some steep sections. You should be confident riding on main roads alongside traffic which can be travelling at speed. This tour is not for beginners. 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.