• On yer Bike in the North

On yer Bike in the North

This New Zealand cycle tour offers the active traveller the chance to explore our North Island by bike. We have included a range of short easy guided trails taking in cities, forests, native bush, lakes, volcanoes, river and wineries.

Highlights: Auckland Waterfront Cycle Tour, Caveworld, Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest Mountain Bike, Thermal Valley Tour with Maori Hangi & Cultural Show, Waihara to Waihora  Bay Taupo Cycle, Napier Sightseeing Tour, Ahuriri to Black Barn Napier Cycle, Martinborough Wine and Vine Cycle and Te Papa Museum.

Day By Day

1

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland city centre offers world-class shopping, restaurants, bars and galleries which are encircled by wine regions, stunning beaches, pristine rainforest and the magnificent Hauraki Gulf.

Following your airport transfer, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the ‘City of Sails’.

Accommodation:
Heritage Hotel, Superior Room with Full Breakfast *

A lovingly restored landmark building full of grace and elegance. The Heritage Auckland has stunning views of Waitemata Harbour and is only moments away from the Viaduct Basin and all the central amenities of Auckland. Boasting a restaurant, cafe, bar, 2 swimming pools, spa, sauna, fitness centre, tennis court, business centre and conference facilities the Heritage Auckland is a great option for family or couples.

*If you are arriving early from an International Flight, please see our team about pre-registering your room for guaranteed access on your arrival. (at additional cost)

2

Auckland

Today, explore Auckland’s waterfront by bike! This private tour in the historic heart of Auckland, following an easy route along off-road cycle paths to the charming seaside community of Mission Bay. Light refreshments are served on the beach before pedalling back to the city, enjoying sweeping views across the islands of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland city.

GRADE 2 – suited to all ages and abilities. Gentle, flat terrain.

Accommodation:
Heritage Hotel, Superior Room with Full Breakfast

3

Auckland to Waitomo, Rotorua

Today’s Drive Time & Distance – Auckland/Waitomo, 2.5 hours, 224km’s (139 miles)
And Waitomo/Rotorua, 2 hours, 139 km’s (86 miles)

Collect your Intermediate Sedan rental vehicle (Holden Cruze or similar) with all-inclusive insurance

Passengers: 5  Bags: 2 x  Large
Key Features: Automatic Transmission, 4 Door Sedan, Air Conditioning and Dual Airbags.

Please contact us if you would like to upgrade your vehicle type to a larger vehicle or SUV/4WD (at additional cost).

At Waitomo, enjoy a short shuttle to Footwhistle Cave for your Glowworm Cave Experience. Your experienced guide reveals the rich history of Waitomo before leading you through native bush to the cave entrance. Inside you will see glowworms and cave formations up close along with Footwhistles Cathedral. Finish your tour with a complimentary Kawa Kawa tea whilst you relax in our punga hut nestled in native forest and surrounds.

Continue to Rotorua, a volcanic wonderland and a place that is rich in Maori culture and history.

Accommodation: 
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua, Superior Room with Full Breakfast

Set on the shores of Lake Rotorua, adjacent to the Polynesian Spa complex, Government Gardens and only a five-minute stroll to the city centre. Offering 248 well appointed rooms, many with superb views of Lake Rotorua and a 3.5 star Qualmark Hotel grading.

4

Rotorua

Travel to the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest this morning for your mountain biking experience. The 55,000ha Whakarewarewa Forest is a mountain bikers playground and set amongst magnificent stands of towering Californian Redwoods, lush native forest and exotic trees.

Enjoy a guided tour through Te Puia and take in the Maori Arts & Crafts gallery, Rotorwhio Marae, Kiwi conservation centre and explore the geothermal valley.   In the evening, experience a Maori ceremony, beautiful songs, the world-renowned haka, the elegant poi dance and an indigenous hangi (earth oven cooked meal).

Accommodation: 
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua, Superior Room with Full Breakfast

5

Rotorua to Taupo

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 1 hour, 107 km’s (66 miles)

Travel the short distance to Lake Taupo this morning and gear up for your next cycling adventure.

The Waihara to Waihora Bay cycle is an extraordinary and scenic ride with expansive views across Lake Taupo and down to the majestic volcanoes of Tongariro National Park. Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations, past Echo rock and down to Waihora Bay.

GRADE 3 – Good mountain biking experienced required.

Approximately 30km’s (18.6 miles)/ 3-4 hours riding. Transport 1.5 hours. Allow at least 6 hours total.

Accommodation: 
Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels, Superior Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast

Set on the shores of the country’s largest lake, Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels offes uninterrupted views of the magnificent lake and mountains. Step out onto the lakeside from your spacious well appointed room.   Facilities include the Edgewater Restaurant, a superb choice for savouring award-winning cuisine, heated swimming pool, private grotto plunge pool, sauna, and gym.

6

Taupo to Napier

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 2 hours, 142 km’s (88 miles)

This afternoon, experience ‘The Best of Napier’ on your private sightseeing tour.   Meet wonderful characters, hear their stories and have some fun. Walk amongst the diverse collection of art deco buildings and visit creative food producers on their land where you can taste, touch and smell the myriad of tantalizing products they make from the deep soils.  You will also visit a rural coastal settlement and talk with a Maori who can provide a spiritual insight into her culture and can clearly demonstrate what it is that makes his indigenous people so special.

Accommodation: 
Art Deco Masonic Hotel, Superior King Room with Full Breakfast

Located on Napier’s waterfront with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean – Masonic Hotel is an Art Deco jewel offering unique, characterful accommodation options.

7

Napier

Meet your guide this morning for your Ahuriri to Black Barn, Havelock North Cycle.

From the historic port village of Ahuriri the cycle trail takes you past the Napier, a world renowned Art Deco treasure and along Marine Parade. The scenery changes to rural farmland as you approach the settlement of Clive, a great stop for refreshments. Then, the final stretch of coastal riding takes you through the East Clive Wetlands, home to coastal birds who nest in the area. Turning inland you eill ride through apple orchard and vineyard country, follow the Tuki Tuki River to the bustling village of Havelock North.

Visit Te Mata Estate winery before continuing to Black Barn Vineyard. We recommend ending your adventure with lunch at the acclaimed Black Barn Bistro. (Lunch at own expense).

GRADE 2 – Gentle, flat terrain.
30km, Allow 4 hours.

Accommodation: 
Art Deco Masonic Hotel, Superior King Room with Full Breakfast

8

Napier to Martinborough

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 3.5 hours, 272 km’s (169 miles)

Drive south today to Martinborough. Packed with colonial charm, the town features over 20 wineries, most within walking distance of the quaint village square.

Accommodation:
The Martinborough Hotel, Garden/Heritage Suite with Full Breakfast

Elegant, boutique accommodation that stands in The Square of Martinborough.  The Heritage Suites are located in the original hotel building and overlook the village with French doors opening onto the verandah. Georgian elegance with pure historic splendour. Garden Suites open on to a peaceful courtyard featuring white roses, a huge walnut tree and hedges of cherry and box. They feature Super King Split Beds, classic furnishings with a modern twist.  

9

Martinborough

Today join your guide for your Wine and Vine bike! This is a must for those who really enjoy wine, and want to know a bit more about the place and the people. Visit three wineries and an Olive Grove during your tour, which have been selected to ensure you get the most interesting cross-section of producers and wine available. You will enjoy a lovely picnic lunch in a sheltered spot along the way.

GRADE: 2, suited to all ages and abilities. Gentle, flat terrain.
Tour Duration – Allow 6 hours.

Accommodation:
The Martinborough Hotel, Garden/Heritage Suite with Full Breakfast

10

Martinborough to Wellington

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: Direct, 1 hour, 81 km’s (50 miles)
or via Cape Palliser, 3 hours, 204 km’s (127 miles)

We would suggest a visit to Cape Palliser, the most southernmost point of the North Island. Take in the Putangirua Pinnacles Track and the Cape Palliser Seal Colony and Lighthouse.

Continue to Wellington, known as the world’s ‘coolest little capital’ for its vibrant arts scene, world class café and restaurant culture.

Accommodation: 
Bolton Hotel, Classic Suite with Full Breakfast  

An independent hotel that provides the discerning traveler with a high degree of comfort and privacy.

With a choice of 139 stylish and comfortable rooms including elegant studios and one/ two bedroom suites.  All rooms include plush mattresses and the best possible bedding for added comfort, along with iPad mini, free wifi, air conditioning, 40″ and 48″ Samsung LED HD TV’s, Sky TV, Minibar and much more.

11

Wellington

Visit Te Papa Museum to experience an in-depth tour of the museum’s collections and learn what makes New Zealand unique. Explore our diverse natural environment, experience Māori culture and treasures, and learn about our art and colonial history. Discover this vibrant land, its dynamic culture, and the spirit of its people. Duration 90 minutes.

Accommodation: 
Bolton Hotel, Classic Suite with Full Breakfast  

12

Farewell Wellington

Return your rental vehicle to Wellington Airport and connect with your departure flight (flight not included).

There is so much to see – extend your New Zealand Cycle Tour with our South Island Cycle Tours!
Cycling around the South – 11 days, Blenheim to Nelson, exploring wineries, beaches and lakes by pedal power.
Central Otago at its Best – 9 Days, Queenstown to Queenstown, taking in New Zealand’s premier cycle trail on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

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Contact Details

Phone Us
+64 3 3555 990
+64 21 461 971

Our Physical Address
21 Verona Place, Ohoka
Christchurch 7692
New Zealand

Our Postal Address
PO Box 36437, Merivale
Christchurch 8146
New Zealand

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Tour Inclusions

New Zealand Cycle Tour

 

 

Terms & Conditions

Booking Terms & Conditions:

Currency

All pricing is in New Zealand Dollars and includes 15% GST (Goods & Services Tax).

Pricing

Pricing is subject to availability and confirmation of the stated itinerary at time of booking.  If we are unable to confirm the stated hotels and services, we will endeavour to confirm substitutes at similar rates, however additional costs may apply.

Rental Car Terms & Conditions:

Inclusions: unlimited kilometres, airport/ferry collection fee, full insurance (subject to reduced excess), front windscreen cover, personal accident insurance, guaranteed replacement vehicle in case of accident.

Exclusions: insurance excess reduction of $345.00 including GST (note, standard insurance excess is $3,450.00 including GST), bond, petrol costs, one way fee ($57.50), optional extras, (all additional expenses to be paid direct)

Payment Policy

We do require a non-refundable deposit of NZD$250.00 per person before we go ahead with securing any reservations.

In addition, some of our suppliers may require further deposits to cover their strict cancellation policies, in this case we would advise you at the time of quoting and confirming your itinerary.

The balance of your booking would be required 45 days prior to your travel date.   If you book inside 45 days, full payment would be required at time of booking.

Payment can be made by electronic wire transfer and should include the additional NZD $25.00 bank fee.   We also accept Visa and Mastercard at an additional fee of 3.1%.

Bank Account Details

Bank Name & Address: Westpac Bank, Mid City Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand

Account Name: Inspired New Zealand Travel

BSB Number: 03-0296

Account Number: 0011146-000

Swift/Routing Code: WPACNZ2W 

Amendments

We are happy to amend your itinerary and dates, however please keep in mind that some of the original services may not be available for your new dates, which may incur additional costs for substituted services.   Amendment fees may apply with multiple changes.

Cancellation Fees

Once Confirmed               Non-refundable Deposit of NZD $250.00 per person

Inside 45 – 21 Days          A Cancellation fee of 30% of your total booking value will apply, along with any cancellation fees applied by our accommodation, sightseeing and other providers.

Inside 20 – 8 days             A Cancellation fee of 50% of your total booking value will apply, along with any cancellation fees applied by our accommodation, sightseeing and other providers.

Inside 7 Days                      Full Cancellations, 100% charge

We will however do our very best to recover and minimise these cancellation fees but recommend that you purchase Travel Insurance to cover yourself.

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