It’s become a bit of a annual tradition: head away with my branch managers for a spot of team building and strategising – from the saddle!
This year Logan, Dan and I took in the West Coast of the South Island: over Arthur’s Pass (in a bus, thanks to a slip on the railway line) then along SH6 through Hokitika, Ross, Fox, Haast and Wanaka to Queenstown.
The West Coast is truly spectacular (admittedly we say that about everywhere in New Zealand) and the road is brilliant for cycling – lots of twists and turns, medium climbs and rugged coastal views.
Dan reckons the fourth day from Haast to Wanaka – with its combination of native bush scenery, the Gates of Haast and views of Lake Wanaka and Hawea – was his favourite day’s riding EVER….although Wanaka to Queenstown, which featured a stop in the Cardrona Hotel and a long, long descent from the top of the Crown Range to Arrowtown, was a worthy runner-up.
Few places worth a mention along the way: there’s a food stall in Hari Hari which sells great sausage rolls and some seriously good caramel shortbread. And Fox Glacier Lodge is a very comfortable and scenic spot to spend the night.
To get an in-the-saddle experience of our trip, we made you a little video. Head here to watch:
www.youtube.com/christchurch-to-queenstown
Fancy wandering the West Coast next summer? We’ve got lots of different options:
6 day Queenstown to Christchurch
Starting out in the adventure capital of Queenstown, this trip takes you over the Haast Pass to the West Coast, where you’ll cruise the coastal road and experience the icy wonders of the Fox Glacier. A great option for the super-fit or time-poor.
9 day Christchurch to Queenstown
Over Arthur’s Pass aboard the TranzAlpine, then onto the West Coast road. You’ll get a full day to explore Franz Glacier before riding through Fox Glacier, the Haast Pass, Makaroa and Lake Wanaka to Queenstown.
10 Day Road Cycle Tour Christchurch to Queenstown T3
You’ll be driven over Arthur’s Pass to Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks, before following the twists and turns of the West Coast road all the way to Queenstown.
15 Day Road Cycle Tour Christchurch to Christchurch
A classic loop that takes in Arthur’s Pass, the wild West Coast, the adventure capital of Queenstown and majestic Mount Count.
Dates aren’t yet finalised for next year’s tours, but drop us a line if you’re keen to tackle any of these routes and we’ll be in touch with the details.
