Cyclists enjoying the Awatere Valley, Molesworth High Country | Colin Monteath

Riding the Kaikoura coastline | Destination Kaikoura

Admiring vast views of the Middlehurst Station on a 4WD tour | Heather Galliger

Pausing to take in the scenery on the Molesworth High Country cycle | Colin Monteath

Sweeping views of the Kaikoura Peninsula. | Paul Boocock

Picnic time on the trail | Lachlan Gardiner

Exploring Middlehurst Station on a 4WD farm tour takes you into the real back country | Heather Gallagher

Panorama of Awatere vineyards | Colin Monteath

Kaikoura & Molesworth High Country Cycle

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49 reviews

6 Days from

$2990 USD

Trip Code: MOL

View dates to Book Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Whale Watch from Kaikoura

$120 USD

Bike Rental

$130 USD

Sinch Ebike Rental

$420 USD

Merida Full Suspension eBike Rental

$630 USD

Single Supplement - Limited to 2 per departure

$900 USD

Duration

6 Days

Activities

6 days walking and cycling

Accommodation

2 nights hotel
2 nights farm stay
1 night luxury apartment

Meals

4 Dinners
5 Lunches
5 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

3 / 5

Moderate

Trip highlights

Explore the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula and hinterland by bike and foot
View the incredible Giant Sperm Whales on a whale watch cruise from Kaikoura (optional if early morning departure operating)
Cycle through the remote Molesworth Station and visit the historic Molesworth Cob Cottage and Acheron Accommodation House
Enjoy kiwi hospitality, fine local produce and hot tubs at our Middlehurst Station farm stay
Learn about life on a high country station first hand from the farmers on a remote 4WD excursion
Soak in the thermal hot pools surrounded by mountains at Hanmer Springs
Visit to the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park and enjoy a wine tasting at an award winning vineyard in the Waipara Valley

Overview

From scenic wine regions to surreal mountain landscapes this trip in the Northern Canterbury and Marlborough districts is a delight. Travel through the emerging wine growing district of Waipara Valley to ride through stunning rolling hill country from Mt Lyford to Kaikoura where the landforms around here still show the effects of the massive November 2016 earthquake. Explore the stunning Kaikoura coastline, dotted with fur seals with the option to take an early morning whale watching cruise. We journey through the vast Molesworth Station along isolated roads flanked by rugged mountains and stay 2 nights on a remote back country merino sheep farm nestled under Mt. Tapuae-o-Uenuku, the highest mountain outside the Southern Alps. Before we head back to Christchurch, enjoy a soak in the therapeutic thermal pools at Hanmer Springs and enjoy visits to a unique sculpture park and boutique winery - all perfect activities to complement this memorable cycling adventure.

Vast coastal and mountain landscapes, luxury accommodation and friendly welcomes are all part of the package, as is the passion and local knowledge of your guides.

Itinerary

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We meet at one central Christchurch location at 8:00am; after a brief introduction and tour overview our adventure starts as we drive north through the Waipara Valley wine region – home of international award winning Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay wines. A brief stop in Amberley, a service town supporting local food growers and producers, and the gateway to the renowned Waipara Wine Valley, the jewel of the North Canterbury Wine Region. Turning to head up the Valley, we continue in the van following this historic inland road as it climbs away from the farmed Canterbury Plains over the Weka Pass and through several charming inland towns. We start today's ride from the alpine village of Mt Lyford, situated amongst the stunning Inland Kaikoura mountain range. From here we traverse through a diverse range of landscapes with the Amuri and Seawards Kaikoura mountain ranges, tussock lands and back through more farming country before reaching the rocky Pacific Coast and the seaside town of Kaikoura. We check into our luxurious beachfront hotel, where we will spend the next 2 nights and meet again in the early evening for our first group dinner. Cycling Distance: 61km, +716m 100% seal Overnight : Kaikoura

Meals: L,D

After breakfast, if the early morning departure is running, we have the option to join a whale watch tour offering an up-close encounter with the world's largest toothed predator the Giant Sperm Whale. We might get to spot any number of Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Minke, Pilot, Orca and Southern Right Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, as well as Elephant Seals and Leopard Seals. The tour lasts around 3 hours and only operates in calm conditions. The rest of the group have time to explore the town and stretch our legs on the stunning Kaikoura Peninsula coastal walk for impressive views of rugged cliff formations, tidal platforms and the Seaward Kaikoura Range. We regroup for lunch and then ride the newly developed Kaikoura cycle trail following the perimeter of the plains under the towering peaks of the Kaikoura Ranges and Mt Fyffe. The trail takes a mix of single track and quiet country roads, some gravel and some paved, through bush and open farmland giving many glimpses of the ocean from above. We return to our hotel and are free to make our own dinner arrangements. Cycling Options : Standard : 29km, +198m, 52% easy unpaved Avid :44km, +372m, 56% unpaved, including moderate single track Hiking Distance: Kaikoura Peninsula Walk - 4km Overnight : Kaikoura

Meals: B

Today we leave Kaikoura early and drive north to the start of the Awatere valley (approx 1.5 hours) with a short stop at Ohau Point lookout to see fur seals on the rocks below. The next 3 days we travel through stunning back country wilderness including the Molesworth Station, which at 180,787 hectares, is New Zealand's biggest farm and supports the country's largest herd of beef cattle, as well as almost 30 endemic plant species. Our journey to Hanmer Springs follows the Awatere River, then crosses Wards Pass to follow the Acheron to its confluence with the Clarence River. We set off riding along the wide Awatere Valley, surrounded by vineyards. We climb up the valley, through rolling farmscapes where the road turns to gravel and we become dwarfed by the impressive Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku (2885m) and the massive Inland Kaikoura Ranges. After a steep climb we reach the top of Upcot Saddle, we get a short downhill respite before another climb over a higher saddle brings us to Middlehurst Station, and our comfortable accommodation in the upper valley. e-Bike riders will need to use their battery power conservatively or risk running out of power. Riders will need the fitness and skills to not rely on 'boost mode'. Please speak to your guides for ways to preserve your battery life. No spare batteries are carried nor available. Our support vehicle will always be near by for anyone who wants a breather or wants to cycle a shorter distance. Tonight's farm stay has shared premium bathroom facilities. We will be welcomed by our hosts with platters and drinks followed by a hearty evening meal prepared by the onsite chef. Cycling Options : Standard : Medway Rd to Middlehurst Station - 56km, +1325m 100% gravel Avid : Blairich Reserve to Middlehurst Station - 68km, +1452m 83% gravel (std bikes only) Accommodation: Middlehurst Station

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we enjoy a 4WD excursion into the high back country of Middlehurst Station. Guided by our hosts, we will learn all about life on the farm, hear interesting stories and the history of the property, while experiencing incredible remote scenery. We stop for 'Smoko' at one of the historic musters huts and have the chance to spot wildlife grazing on the vast skylines. We return to the beautiful Middlehurst Station by mid afternoon. There is the option of a short afternoon guided ride to Cobb Cottage, the original cob homestead built by John Murphy in 1866 and the gateway to the vast Molesworth Station. Otherwise, you may prefer a full day off the bike and instead soak in a hot tub surrounded by the amazing mountainous environment before another delicious home cooked evening meal is served. Cycling Option : Middlehurst Station to Cobb Cottage : 22km, 449m Accommodation: Middlehurst Station

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast we say farewell to our hosts and into the Molesworth Station, savouring the remoteness of the spectacular landscape around us. We'll transfer by van back to the end of yesterday's ride at Cobb Cottage where we'll start today's ride. We climb to Wards Pass (1145m) and continue across the 250-hectare expanse of Isolated Flat, an outwash plain, bounded by the Awatere Fault. From January until April, masses of tall, white gentian flowers and blue borage can be seen growing colourfully amongst clumps of short tussock and pasture grass. Flanked by mountain ranges the road follows the Acheron River to the historic Acheron House, which was built in 1863 as an overnight stopover in the early stock droving days. Here some riders may prefer to hitch a ride for the final 26km which is on a rougher gravel road over Jacks Pass, followed by a steep gravel descent into Hanmer Springs, which is our destination tonight. After settling into our comfortable accommodation, you have the option to head to the thermal hot pools for a well deserved soak in the therapeutic waters. We meet again in the evening for our final group dinner to celebrate our weeks cycling achievements. Cycling Options : Standard : The Official Molesworth Road : 59km, +727m, 100% gravel Avid : Cobb Cottage to Hanmer Springs, including Std ride : 85km, 923m, 100% gravel Accommodation: Hanmer Springs

Meals: B,L,D

Hanmer Springs is a hub for mountain biking and hiking, and a great place to rest, relax and enjoy the mountain air. This morning we have a choice to ride or walk and to revisit the hot pools depending on our energy levels. Cycle Option: Enjoy riding the tracks in Hanmer Forest, ranging from easy to more technical trails. Hiking Option: A short relaxed walk takes us through the forest to a lookout at Conical Hill. After time for a coffee and snack, we'll leave Hanmer late morning and head to a boutique Waipara vineyard, Georges Road winery, for a tasting and platter lunch, a fitting way to celebrate all we've experienced and achieved. Our final experience is a visit to Iron Ridge Quarry Park, a magical wonderland, with stunning sculptures set against a carefully curated native garden, all under the shadow of breathtaking limestone hills. Here we'll enjoy a guided walk hosted by the owner and sculptor, Raymond Herber. It's a final hour's drive which should see us back in Christchurch around 5pm, where there will be a drop off in the city centre.

Meals: B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

Tasty cafe breakfasts (5), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches, including winery lunch (5), two course restaurant dinners (4)
3 nights superior hotel accommodation, double or twin share with ensuite bathroom facilities
2 nights farm stay accommodation at Middlehurst Station with premium shared bathrooms
Professional qualified driver/guide
2 professional guides/drivers on trips with 8 or more people
4WD tour on Middlehurst Station exploring the remote high country farm
Hot tubs at Middlehurst Station
Entry to Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
Wine tasting at a boutique Waipara vineyard
Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare

Not included

International or domestic flights and taxes
Arrival and departure transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All beverages, other than breakfast
Bike hire (including helmet)
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
Optional activities (eg. Whale Watching Tour NZ$175 from Kaikoura, entrance to hot pools at Hanmer Springs $40)
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Travel insurance
Visa (if required)

About your guide

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. Learn more about our guides on our team page at www.adventuresouth.co.nz.

Adventure Highlighted Video

Our Premium e-Bikes: Features and Benefits

Our Guides: The Heart and Soul of Your Adventure

Reviews (49)

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Responsible travel

Extra trip info

Sinch eBikes - Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL

Designed right here in Aotearoa New Zealand, our fleet of Sinch eBikes is made to handle the country’s trails with ease. These pedal-assist bikes take the edge off hills and longer rides thanks to smooth, reliable Shimano motor systems and a comfortable, upright riding position.

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. The smaller sizes (XS, S, M) feature step-through frames and swept-back handlebars for a relaxed touring posture, while large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Looking for a riding position more like a mountain bike? Prefer to stand on the pedals or want a full-suspension ride? Consider upgrading to our Merida eOne-FORTY 475 EQ for next-level comfort and capability across all terrain.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Sinch eBike (Front suspension mountain bike style) - Sizes L & XL

They come with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and air-sprung dropper seat posts to help fine-tune your comfort on the go. Large and XL frames are also available in a step-through option on request.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth muster, or rolling past vineyards in Hawke’s Bay, the Sinch eBike is built to help you enjoy the ride.

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes on offer for this tour.

Avanti Discovery - Hard Tail Mountain Bike (Not an eBike)

Our custom Avanti Discovery bikes are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — simple, solid, and comfortable. Fast-rolling tyres and upgraded suspension forks keep things smooth over mixed terrain, while the 1x10 drivetrain makes gear changes easy and intuitive.

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.

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

This bike is also available in a low-step model on request!

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.

Avanti Discovery - Hard Tail Low-step Mountain Bike (Not an eBike)

Just like our Avanti Discovery hardtail mountain bike, the low-step version is simple, solid, and comfortable. Fast-rolling tyres and upgraded suspension forks keep things smooth over mixed terrain, while the 1x10 drivetrain makes gear changes easy and intuitive.

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

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.

Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ - (subject to availability - through November 2025)

This is the e-bike for riders who want the lot — comfort, control, and a little electric boost when the legs need it. The Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ features full suspension, a relaxed riding position, and a powerful Shimano motor that’ll help flatten out hills and keep your day flowing smoothly.

A long-lasting battery means you can ride all day, and extras like integrated lights, mudguards and a rack make it practical too. Whether you’re gliding around the Great Taste Trail, cruising the West Coast Wilderness, or soaking in the sights of the Timber Trail, this bike turns the dial up on comfort and capability.

(photos will be updated mid-August)

Tap the arrows left and right to explore the other bikes available to rent for this tour.