New Zealand wine tours – by bike!
Nestled in the lee of the Southern Alps, 40 minutes north of Christchurch, are the vineyards of the Waipara Valley. Aromatic grape varieties such as pinot noir, riesling, pinot gris and gewürztraminer thrive in the cool climate of this region and the valley is fast establishing itself as one of the premium wine producing areas of New Zealand.
Right now, the Waipara Valley is still very much an insider-secret. Which is why we’re thrilled to be able to offer you two cycling tours that take in this undiscovered region.
Five Day North Canterbury & Marlborough Cycle Tour
Spectacular southern scenery, spa soaks and sublime wine are all on the menu on this easy ride through the picturesque Canterbury landscape.
You’ll set out from Christchurch and spend your first evening in the Waipara Valley (wine-tasting by the side of a pool, to be exact!) Day two sees you on the road to Hanmer Springs, home to thermal hot pools and excellent restaurants. The back country beckons on day three when you cycle through the Molesworth Station, New Zealand’s largest farm. After a night in the shearers’ quarters of a merino sheep station, you’ll follow the river down the beautiful Awatere valley to emerge in vineyards alongside the sparkling Pacific Ocean. You’ll overnight in Kaikoura, where you’ll have numerous opportunities to view whales, dolphins and albatross, before returning to Christchurch via the spectacular inland Kaikoura road.
This tour is available from December through to April 2016. Head here for exact dates. The tour costs $1565 NZD per person, which includes:
Four nights of 3-star, twin share accommodation.
All breakfasts, four lunches and three evening meals.
Support vehicle.
Luggage transfer for lightweight touring.
Knowledgeable, friendly tour guide.
DOC fees
Riding ability: Grade: 2. Moderate.
Book this tour today.
One-day Waipara Wine Tour
Short on time? Join us for a one-day tour of the Waipara Valley. The riding is easy, the scenery delightful and the wine tastings plentiful.
Tour includes:
Hybrid bike and helmet, hotel pick up and transport to and from Waipara. Morning coffee, wine tastings at any of four cellar doors (which could include Pegasus Bay, Torlesse, Waipara Springs, Greystone and Black Estate), and a delicious antipasto lunch platter. 10am pick up from your central Christchurch accommodation, drop off by 5.30pm.
Tour excludes:
Wine purchases, alcoholic drinks with lunch, optional coffee at your final cellar door.
Pricing details:
$275 per adult for 1-2 adults.
$240 per adult for groups of 3 or more.
Duration: 6-7 hours.
This tour will run daily after 26 October.
Book this tour today.
Like to know more about these tours? Send me an email.
Have a great week,
Andrew Hunt
