“Initially, I was apprehensive about this trip as it challenged my riding endurance, technical skills and comfort zone. However, I knew there was the back up of a guide and the van. My goal was to keep up as best I could, take copious photos and not fall off the bike. Elder assured me that the bikes were designed for the skiddy gravel I feared and stayed with me at the rear of the pack on the more challenging parts on the big hill looking down on Lake Benmore. He was constantly cheerful and encouraging. Perhaps he is a saint in Real Life? I was advised not to try the 20km part of Rotten Tommy but still enjoyed an amazing helicopter ride. I met up with the group at lunchtime on Braemar Road (after a van ride with Ken, to pick up the salmon for our dinner feast) and completed the rest of the ride successfully. As a group we had a great deal of fun, stayed in comfortable atmospheric accommodation...my favourites were Braemar Lodge and The Brydone, Oamaru. We ate fabulous food. Our guides Elder and Ken are chefs supreme. Gourmet picnics appeared like magic, as we lounged on deck chairs. Cafes and coffee were abundantly provided for. Nothing was too much trouble for our guides. I am now motivated to try more challenging biking trips after this experience.”
“Overall the trip was fabulous.Perfect time of the year for the weather.All the accommodations and itinerary package were "right on".The travel designer, Geoff in Christchurch was extremely helpful with much communications and making changes prior to finalizing the trip.,”
A fabulous taster trip of New Zealand...
4 - Very Good
“This trip encompassed everything I had wanted to experience in New Zealand and more - helped by excellent guiding by experienced leader Ian and supported by Pete - and perfect weather conditions. If you want to see the highlights of both islands at a reasonable price, then this is the trip for you! Just be prepared for long days on the minibus, which are unavoidable unfortunately.”