Cycle Along the Central Otago Rail Trail

TOUR REGION
Central Otago near Queenstown, New Zealand.

TOUR TYPE
Mountain Bike Safari – Lodge and Cabins Accommodation

A tour in Central Otago will soon be posted here.

Here is a sneak peak at the itinerary:

Day 1:
Christchurch

Start your day by visiting the Christchurch Botanic Gardens1. Explore the beautiful gardens, enjoy a leisurely walk, and take in the vibrant flora and fauna.
Head to Hagley Park, located near the city center. It’s a great place for a picnic, a stroll, or some outdoor activities2.
In the afternoon, you can visit the Canterbury Museum3. It offers a fascinating insight into the history, culture, and natural heritage of New Zealand.
End your day with a visit to the Cardboard Cathedral, an architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of hope and resilience.

Day 2:
Christchurch

Start your day by exploring the Quake City Museum3. It provides an immersive experience that tells the story of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that affected Christchurch.
Take a walk along the Avon River, which runs through the heart of the city. You can also opt for a relaxing punt ride on the river.
Visit the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks.
Wrap up your sightseeing tour with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre3. Experience Antarctic life, meet penguins, and learn about scientific research in this unique facility.

For more information on these attractions and alternative itineraries, you can visit this website4.

Now, let’s move on to your two days in Queenstown:

Day 3:
Queenstown

Start your day with a visit to Lake Wakatipu, one of New Zealand’s most scenic lakes56. You can take a leisurely walk along its shores or enjoy water activities like kayaking and canoeing.
Head up to the Skyline Queenstown, where you can take a gondola ride to enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown and its surroundings78.
In the evening, indulge in a gourmet BBQ lunch at Walter Peak High Country Farm, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu5.

Day 4:
Queenstown

Embark on an adventure-filled day by exploring some of Queenstown’s best tourist experiences. You can go bungee jumping at the iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy or try jet boating on the Shotover River.
Take a scenic drive to Glenorchy, located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu. The drive itself offers breathtaking views, and Glenorchy is known for its stunning landscapes featured in movies like “The Lord of the Rings.”
Wrap up your tour with a relaxing stroll along Queenstown’s waterfront and enjoy dinner at one of its many excellent restaurants.

Day 5 – 8
Central Otago Rail Trail

This exciting trail takes you along the banks of the Clutha Mata-au River, the second largest river in New Zealand passing the Earnscleugh tailings historic reserve en route to the Alexandra Bridge.

Day 1: Start your journey at Clyde and cycle to Omakau or Lauder. Alternatively, you can stay off the trail at Ophir1.

Day 2: Cycle from Omakau or Lauder to Wedderburn or Ranfurly. You can also choose to stay off the trail at Naseby.

Day 3: Continue your ride from Wedderburn or Ranfurly to Kokonga or Hyde.

Day 4: Cycle from Kokonga or Hyde to Middlemarch, which marks the end of the trail.

Return to Christchurch or forward on to your next adventure.