More About NZ
New Zealand is home to some of the most varied and spectacular landscapes in the world.
Across two small islands, you have everything from towering snow-capped mountains, to glacial valleys, to rain forests, to vast open plains, to wind swept beaches. This diversity of landforms - which you would expect across an entire continent - is sure to not only compliment your cycling trip to New Zealand, but chances are it will shape your trip here.
If you're coming to New Zealand in the warmer, summer high-season months of November - April, expect to find lots of fellow tourists. Don't be surprised though as this is the ideal time to take in the many landscapes New Zealand does have to offer - just be sure to plan ahead and be sure to book your accommodation in advance. New Zealand is still a fascinating place to visit in the cooler winter months. Expect clear skies, much less precipitation and fewer tourists.
New Zealand is an easy and accessible place to visit. Thanks to friendly locals, a moderate climate and excellent tourist focused communities, your trip around New Zealand should be a breeze. In our towns and cities, you're guaranteed to find accommodation and eating options for all budgets.
A trip to New Zealand isn't complete without getting outside and experiencing the great landscapes we have on offer: consider white-water rafting, kayaking, multi-day hikes in the form of Great Walks, or full-on adrenaline inducing activities like bungy jumping or skydiving. Of course, NZ offers some of the best biking in the world. From our developing Great Rides, to classic mountain bike trips, to week or month long cycling tours - NZ begs to be explored on two wheels.
Getting Around New Zealand
New Zealand is very well geared for tourism. There are literally hundreds of rental car and campervan providers, tour operators, and a couple of national coach operators. There is not a strong rail network across New Zealand however there are some fantastic routes covered by train, in particular the main trunk line from Auckland to Wellington, the Tranz Scenic that crosses the Southern Alps from Christchurch to Wesport and the Coastal train from Picton to Christchurch.
The Weather
The weather in New Zealand is changeable to say the least - be prepared! That is pretty much all that we can say. Take warm clothes even if you think it is a hot and sunny day - prepare for the worst. Click here for more ideas of what to carry and wear.
Two good weather monitoring websites are:
Food and Drink
The modern New Zealand culture has many diverse influences such as a large Pacific Island population, a more recent Asian migration and traditional European heritage. As such you can expect to find a whole gambit of food and drinks. In the main centers New Zealand has it's own distinctive "cafe culture" where you will find interesting fusion style dishes such as salads with heavy Asian influences and a competitive pursuit for the best coffee. Outside of the cities however expect to find more down to earth dishes such as the great New Zealand pie and a cream bun.
Many of the newly developed Great Rides link the trail with towns and areas where you can stop mid-ride for a bit to eat in a local cafe or pub. Other rides whoever will require you to plan ahead with your sustanence. Whatever you do don't skimp on the water to save weight - dehydration can lead to devastaing headaches and a miserable end to an otherwise great day.
Cellphones
Cellphone coverage is not good outside of the main cities. There is no argument that it has greatly improved over the last half a dozen years - but do not rely on your cellphone in emergencies particularly away from the main population bases. For example, coverage is very bad on the West Coast and Central areas of the South Island.
Respect Our Environment
New Zealand is beautiful and we take pride in keeping it that way. Find out more about how you can help look after New Zealand, such as camping responsibly or avoiding "nature" stops in nature.
