Best of the West Cycle Trail - Tuatara Tours

New Zealand Cycle Trail:

Best of the West Cycle Trail

Expect things to be different on the West Coast — fresh and more alive, untouched, bigger and more impressive than you imagined

Where

Christchurch to Christchurch

Duration

6 days / 5 nights

Fitness

Frm $3050

Dates available now for 2025 2026

Next seasons dates now available, don't miss out, book now!!

  • Start Date Status
  • Wed 19 Nov 25Last 2 places
  • Mon 12 Jan 26FULL
  • Wed 21 Jan 26
  • Mon 02 Feb 26
  • Mon 16 Feb 26Last 4 places
  • Sun 01 Mar 26
  • Mon 09 Mar 26Full
  • Mon 23 Mar 26
Another date in mind?
We can build a tour especially for your group, please enquire for dates available.

Low season $3050

Nov, Dec, Jan, Apr

High season $3350

Feb, Mar

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No bike?
No problem!

We have a variety of e-bikes and manual bikes ready for hire.

Find Out More

From majestic mountains and sparkling lakes to turquoise gorges, towering forests, lush wetlands, and jaw-dropping coastal cliffs — the West Coast is bursting with natural wonders at every turn.

But it’s not just about the scenery — there’s rich history, unique heritage, and vibrant communities waiting to be explored.

This extraordinary West Coast adventure journeys between the mountains to the east and the coastline in the west, with views that’ll take your breath away!

Tour Itinerary

Frm $3050

Day 1 Christchurch to Westport

Distance: varied 20km approximately

Accommodation: Westport Hotel / Motel stay

The journey begins in Christchurch, heading into the hills and over the majestic Lewis Pass with its dense , green beech forest. There will be a couple of stops to stretch the legs, passing through Springs Junction and the historic goldmining town of Reefton.

Enroute we have time for a relaxed 20km ride — the exact route will be chosen by your guide to suit the weather and the group’s energy levels.

The day wraps up in Westport with a delicious dinner and a comfy place to unwind for the night.

MEALS INCLUDED: L D

Day 2 Westport - Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Hokitika

Distance: 41km approximately

Accommodation: Hokitika Hotel / Motel stay

Today’s ride is all about the Kawatiri Trail — the latest addition to the New Zealand Cycle Trail network. Spanning 41km from Westport to Charleston, it’s made up of eight varied sections, each with its own distinct highlights. This trail has it all: dramatic geology, rich Māori and European history, lush native bush, and sweeping coastal views.

The dedicated cycle path winds through podocarp forest, across suspension bridges, through groves of nikau palms, and along wild beaches. It’s a smooth, scenic journey that steps back in time — from Māori Pounamu gatherers, to the rush and sparkle of the gold mining era.

With the ride complete, we jump back in the van and head down the coast, stopping to explore the epic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks before kicking back for the night in Hokitika.

MEALS INCLUDED: B L D

Day 3 Hokitika to Kumara

Distance: 72km approximately

Accommodation: Greymouth Hotel stay

Today’s ride is a classic — the West Coast Wilderness Trail from Hokitika to Kumara, and it’s a favourite for good reason.

The scenery packs a punch, with native forest, open farmland, and the stunning Lake Kaniere — often called one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

Along the way, you’ll roll past gold rush relics, fast-flowing water races, and into the wide-open views of the Arahura Valley — the historic source of treasured pounamu (greenstone).

After a full day on the trail, it’s time to kick back and relax at a cosy hotel in Greymouth.

MEALS INCLUDED: B L D

Day 4 Kumara to Fox Glacier

Distance: 46km

Accommodation: Fox Glacier Motel stay

We kick off with a drive to Ross, then jump on the bikes for a 23km spin along an easy 4WD track with some fun little hills.

Take in wild bush vibes, spot 120-year-old gold workings, and if you’re up for it, fly down the hills — e-bikes love this!

Cruise high above Totara Gorge, then refuel with lunch at the cosy Black Hut — and if you’re keen, cool off with a swim in the Totara River.

Allow around 5 hours for the round trip, but you set the pace!

Later, it’s off to Fox Glacier for a chilled 8.4km ride on the Te Weheka Trail, before winding down for the evening at one of Fox Glacier’s favourite local watering holes.

MEALS INCLUDED: B L D

Day 5 Fox Glacier - Lake Matheson - Gillespies Beach - Franz Josef

Distance: 21km one way

Accommodation: Franz Josef Motel stay

Start the day with a ride out to Lake Matheson, then take a peaceful walk around its famous mirror-like waters. The reflections of Mt Tasman and Mt Cook are iconic — this is one of the most photographed spots in the country.

From there, cruise out to Gillespies Beach on a scenic 21km ride. Wild and remote, yet peaceful, this windswept beach has a colourful gold mining past — and you might even spot a seal or two along the way.

Later, head back to Franz Josef and roll along the Te Ara a Waiau cycleway — a gentle rainforest ride that takes you off-road to the glacier walk car park. It’s an easy 8.7km return trip.

Tonight, rest up in Franz Josef.

MEALS INCLUDED : B L D

Day 6 Franz Josef Glacier - Okarito - Christchurch

Location: Franz Josef to Christchurch

Distance: 20km one way

This morning we head to Ōkārito, a peaceful little coastal gem and the former home of Keri Hulme, author of The Bone People. Take a deep breath, soak in the stillness, and enjoy the magic of this quiet, wild place.

Afterwards, we make our way back to Christchurch, winding through the spectacular Arthur’s Pass — the perfect scenic finish to an unforgettable adventure.

MEALS INCLUDED : B L

What’s Included

Accommodation

Each night you will stay in comfortable hotel, motel, or bed and breakfast accommodation.

Rooms are double (one queen /king bed) or twin ( 2 separate beds)

If you have a preference for a twin room, please let us know when you make your booking.

All rooms have their own ensuite bathroom.

If you are a single traveller, you can nominate to share a room with another single of the same gender or pay an additional single supplement to secure a private room for the duration of the tour.

An experienced guide

An experienced and fully qualified guide

Food

You will enjoy great local cuisine; continental breakfasts and hearty packed lunches during the day,  and restaurant meals in the evenings. If you have any dietary issues or food allergies, we are happy to cater for these, please advise the office of details when you make your booking. Alcohol is not included in the tour cost, but is available for purchase most nights.

Safety and Risk Management

To ensure maximum safety for all, our guides are certified first aiders and fully qualified drivers. Tuatara Tours operate under a Safety and Risk Management Plan which is regularly audited and approved by a qualified and independent auditor.

Luggage & Transfers

Tuatara Tours transports all your luggage for the duration of the tour.

Tour Kit Bag Exclusive to Tuatara Tours

To ensure you get the very best out of your journey with the least of fuss, we provide you with a bag of useful goodies. This will be given to you at the start of your tour.

Transport

All transport – support vehicle for the duration of the tour

Additional Info
Bike Hire – not included in your tour cost.

We have bikes for hire and recommend you use them as they are tried and true in the areas we operate.

Please download the tour brochure for bike hire prices.

All of our bikes are fully maintained and serviced before they leave. Included in the cost of your cycle hire is a cycle helmet and safety vest.

You may use your own bike, but please ensure it is well maintained and fully serviced before your tour starts.

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