Christmas in New Zealand is, for most people, the start of summer. Yes, we do Christmas trees and gift-giving and turkey dinners, but mainly Christmas is about hanging out with family, hitting the beach and soaking up the sun.
In that spirit, we thought instead of our traditional round up of cycling-themed gift ideas, we’d offer you a list of fun and exciting New Zealand adventures. Because spending time with loved ones and creating unforgettable memories has got to be the very best gift of all.
Put one of these experiences in your stocking for 2016:
Wheels and wine on Waiheke
Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, the beautiful, laid-back island of Waiheke offers picturesque bays, rolling hills and award-winning vineyards. Quiet country roads, fabulous restaurants and cellar-door tastings are what this three-day, self-guided tour is all about:
3-Day Self-Guided Waiheke Island Cycle Tour
Up your mountain bike skills
Got a burning desire to hit the backcountry but lack the skills to do so safely? A half-day of mountain bike skills training on local hills in either Christchurch or Auckland will sharpen your off-road skills and give you the confidence to tackle tougher terrain. Our experienced instructors can teach any level required, from complete beginners through to advanced riders. Come by yourself or bring a buddy. We can also cater for larger groups:
Mountain bike skills training
Ride the Heaphy Track
This 80km, three-day route through the Kahurangi National Park in the northwest corner of the South Island is one of New Zealand’s finest multi-day mountain bike rides. (Only open between 1 May and 30 September every year):
Guided Heaphy Track Tour
Get amongst the West Coast
Discover the enthralling history and dramatic scenery of the South Island’s West Coast. The five-day, West Coast Wilderness Tour takes you through dense rainforests, glacial rivers, lakes and wetlands:
The West Coast Wilderness Trail
Paddle the Abel Tasman
Leisurely paddling, stunning scenery and surprising encounters with the local wildlife – an all-inclusive sea kayaking tour is the ultimate way to discover the pristine paradise of the Abel Tasman National Park:
Sea kayaking tours
Wind your way through the Wairarapa
This tour takes you from the head of Wellington harbour to the charming Victorian town of Greytown, taking in the wild beauty of Palliser Bay and the genteel vineyards of Martinborough along the way. Smooth, gentle riding makes this route particularly suited to newbie cyclists or families:
5 Day Cycle Tour Wellington Harbour to Greytown
Have an absolutely epic Christmas!
Andrew Hunt
