West Coast Wilderness Trail Cycling Adventure
Your 8-day vacation begins in the oldest city in Aotearoa New Zealand, Christchurch. Explore the botanic gardens located in the centre of the city where you will also find the historic Cathedral Square. Time permitting, ride the tram, enjoy scenic views of the city from the Christchurch gondola and be expertly guided on the Avon River during a punting tour.
Travel New Zealand by train on the renowned TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth. Enjoy spectacular landscapes through panoramic windows while venturing past majestic mountains, ancient volcanic peaks and white beaches. On the Scenic Plus experience, elevate your experience with an exclusively created drinking and dining experience, comfy seating, and a spacious carriage. Arriving in Greymouth, immerse yourself in Māori history at Māwhera Pā, an audio-visual journey through time, artistically curated with the aid of Weta Workshop.
The next 4 days will be spent cycling the length of the 135-kilometre West Coast Wilderness Trail from Ross to Greymouth. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience through ancient rainforests, along rivers and bridges. Along the way, experience the Hokitika Gorge Walk, Treetop Walkway and West Coast Scenic Waterways Cruise.
Arriving back in Greymouth, you will finish your unforgettable holiday returning to Christchurch on board the TranzAlpine.
**Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week during the winter months. We recommend contacting one of our travel specialists to identify a departure date that suits your schedule.
Tour overview
Departs every day - flexible independent travel
This suggested tour costs from NZD$4,600 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch
8 days/7 nights
Hotel 3 star
Customisable? YES
Viewed 15 times in the last 7 days
We can customize this tour suggestion to suit you perfectly. Add more time in favourite locations, stay in different accommodations, experience activities that interest you - we can arrange it all. Just get in touch to get your Tailor-Made itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Christchurch, also referred to as the 'Garden State'
Christchurch New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!
Experience three of Christchurch's iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You'll also enjoy a bird's eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city's green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.
Located just 15 minutes from the city center, Christchurch's 75-acre Botanic Gardens boast the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand. This impressive collection creates a tranquil oasis, with spring daffodils, stunning summer roses and herbaceous borders, vibrant autumn foliage, and cozy conservatories to warm up in during winter. There’s something to enjoy in every season. The New Zealand Garden also offers a unique glimpse into the country’s wilderness, providing a peaceful escape throughout the year.
Your accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Sudima Christchurch City is a brand new 5-star boutique hotel, ideally located on Victoria Street. Amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, stay only a martini olive pips’ throw from beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. Experience the garden city in comfort and style.
Day 2 - Explore NZ by train on board the TranzAlpine and embark on a journey through time
You will be met by a driver at your Christchurch Accommodation and transferred to the railway station.
Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat – a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.
Māwhera Pā in Greymouth is the first location along the Pounamu Pathway touring route to open. This self-guided experience is a historical and creative exploration of the Poutini Ngāi Tahu and the Māwhera Pā settlement people, retold by their ancestors. The exhibition will lead you through six different narratives, each tale including a large-scale masterpiece, artistically crafted by Weta Workshop to cultivate an immersive journey of visuals and sound.
Your accommodation: Bella Vista Greymouth
Experience true West Coast hospitality at Bella Vista Greymouth. A great base for all your West Coast adventures. Enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the town centre for shops, entertainment and other activities.
Day 3 - Spend the morning in Greymouth before being transferred to Hokitika by Kiwi Journeys
The Wonderful Wilderness Tour will take you along one of the country's smoothest, most accessible and most popular cycle trails. Journey through ancient rainforests and wetlands, along historic bridges and down icy cold Glacial rivers. On the West Coast, you are likely to experience all weather events, making this an unforgettable cycling journey along New Zealand's Wilderness Trail.
Begin your 4-day cycling adventure today with a safety debrief and bike fitting from Kiwi Journeys in Hokitika before your experience begins tomorrow.
Your accommodation: Teichelmanns Bed and Breakfast or similar
Nestled in Hokitika's historic heart, Teichelmann’s Bed & Breakfast offers quality accommodation on New Zealand's West Coast. The beautifully restored heritage building is set in the very location of Eleanor Catton's 'The Luminaries'.
Day 4 - Begin your cycling adventure with a cycle through picturesque wetlands and forest
Head off from Hokitika by bike, cruising south past the golf course and into the enchanting Kohaihai Forest. This serene, ancient woodland, filled with towering kahikatea and totara trees, offers a peaceful ride over boardwalks and through wetlands, following the historic Mahinapua Tramline. You'll soak in the natural beauty and rich industrial past. A short ride on a sealed road leads you to the Treetops Walkway. Pause your cycle to wander among the canopies, enjoying vibrant birdlife and sweeping views of Lake Mahinapua. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch amidst nature. Afterward, cycle back through the forest to your comfortable Hokitika accommodation for a peaceful evening.
Total distance - 28km
Your accommodation: West Coast Scenic Waterways or similar
Experience tranquility at West Coast Scenic Waterways Accommodation, nestled along the serene wetlands of Hokitika. Enjoy cozy, eco-friendly stays with stunning water views and easy access to kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks. Perfect for unwinding and connecting with the beauty of New Zealand’s wild West Coast.
Day 5 - Explore Hokitika Gorge and Lake Kaniere and enjoy another day on the bike
Begin your day by shuttling to the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where vivid turquoise waters meet dramatic rock formations. After taking in this incredible sight, head to Lake Kaniere for a relaxed lunch and photos amidst the scenic bays. Then, enjoy a mostly downhill bike ride through native bush, tracing the historic Kaniere Water Race – hand-dug in 1875 and a testament to gold mining ingenuity. The Kaniere Tram Road leads you back to Hokitika, where you can explore local shops, or enjoy afternoon tea. Finish your cycle at your Hokitika accommodation, reflecting on a day of breathtaking scenery and rich history.
Total distance - 29km
Your accommodation: Teichelmanns Bed and Breakfast or similar
Nestled in Hokitika's historic heart, Teichelmann’s Bed & Breakfast offers quality accommodation on New Zealand's West Coast. The beautifully restored heritage building is set in the very location of Eleanor Catton's 'The Luminaries'.Day 6 - Climb the Kawhaka Pass into Kumara with incredible views of the Southern Alps
After a good breakfast, Kiwi Journeys shuttle you to Canoe Cove to begin your ride. Your ride starts with a gentle ascent up the Arahura Valley, famous for its stunning river and rich history of greenstone (Pounamu) harvesting. Follow the gravel road to Milltown, where the real adventure begins. Today includes a short climb to 300 metres at the Kawhaka Pass for panoramic views, followed by a long, exhilarating descent into Kumara. The Southern Alps will be a stunning backdrop for your photos. As you near Kumara, a smooth boardwalk and bush trail will guide you into town.
The ride will provide you with incredible views of the Southern Alps and along a smooth sweeping boardwalk and bush trail so be sure to take your camera.
Total distance - 47km
Your accommodation: Theatre Royal Hotel or similar
Within the town of Kumara, one of New Zealand's last gold rushes, the Theatre Royal Hotel was built in 1876 and is steeped in historic charm. The hotel was renovated and reopened in 2012 with a grand celebration where townspeople dressed up and old vehicles paraded the streets.
Day 7 - Ride the short distance from Kumara to Greymouth before boarding the TranzAlpine
Saddle up for your final ride! Head towards the coast, taking in breathtaking views of the Taramakau River as you cycle towards the Tasman Sea. You'll pass scenic sand dunes and tranquil lagoons before following the Grey River into Greymouth. Once in Greymouth, you'll find various dining options, including the famous Monteith’s Brewery. Kiwi Journeys will meet you at the finish line, opposite the train station, at midday. Enjoy your celebration and the last of the stunning West Coast scenery!
Total distance - 28km
Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat – a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.
On arrival at the Christchurch railway station, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.
Your accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Sudima Christchurch City is a brand new 5-star boutique hotel, ideally located on Victoria Street. Amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, stay only a martini olive pips’ throw from beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. Experience the garden city in comfort and style.Day 8 - Farewell New Zealand
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.
Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!
