New Zealand South Island Multi-Adventure Tour
Couples, Friends & Solos
9 days
8 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual Hotels*
New Zealand South Island Multi-Adventure Tour
Couples, Friends & Solos
9 days
8 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual Hotels*
2024: Dec2025: Jan-Mar, Nov-Dec2026: Jan-Mar
Mountains & Rugged Coast from Christchurch to Queenstown
Scenery doesn't get any more incredible than in New Zealand. On a bike and on foot, you're in the middle of it all. Ever-changing natural beauty through your sunglasses. Ocean mist in your face. Island-fresh air in your lungs to complement that bit of sweat on your brow. The sheep have it made here. This week, they aren't the only ones.
Highlights
- Marvel at verdant rain forests, wild rivers, crashing waves and rugged coastline on the beautiful Tasman Sea
- Raft the mystical Kawarau River, cross an iconic swing bridge and trek beneath the Rob Roy hanging glacier
- Bike and hike through dramatic varied scenery and mountain ranges, finishing in a Pinot grape-growing wine region
- Discover the many charms and secrets of Arrowtown, rich in gold-mining history, and Hokitika, renowned for its jade
StartChristchurch
EndQueenstown
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Gear up for awe-inspiring activities in one of the world's greatest outdoor playgrounds • Bike through an impressive mosaic of paddocks across the Canterbury Plains • Travel to Arthur's Pass, soaking up views of the diverse landscapes • Lush native flora lines our trail in this famed hiking area • Journey to the epic peaks of Bealey Spur and look out over the milky-blue Waimakariri River • Settle in at our charming wilderness lodge.
Nights 1-2
A welcoming mountain retreat and high-country sheep station surrounded by a beech forest and frosted peaks.
Day 3
Take in glaciers, rain forests and the dramatic Tasman Sea • Bike along tranquil roads to historic Hokitika, famous for its crafts and jade carvings • Dine on fresh local cuisine at our peaceful forest retreat.
Night 3
A serene hotel that provides for every comfort—even offering a pillow menu. (spa)
Days 4-5
Venture through old-growth forests to Westland National Park, with the receding face of the Franz Josef Glacier, one of New Zealand's natural wonders, off in the distance • Cycle to the quaint coastal village of Okarito, once a gold-mining boomtown • Opt for a scenic helicopter ride over the glacial terrain • Sip a post-hike cocktail by the river at our cozy rain forest hideaway • Kayak the crystal-clear waters of Lake Moeraki or go exploring with a lodge naturalist.
Nights 4-5
This riverside lodge offers cozy guest rooms and excellent cuisine in a remote rain forest setting.
Days 6-7
Bike along a pristine rugged coastline to the sleepy fishing village of Jackson Bay • Discover the waterfall-laced Haast World Heritage area, home to some of New Zealand's highest mountains, longest glaciers and wildest rivers unmatched anywhere in the world, according to UNESCO • In Mount Aspiring National Park, hike to a spectacular viewpoint below the iconic Rob Roy hanging glacier.
Nights 6-7
On the shore of Lake Wanaka with views of the magnificent Southern Alps.
Days 8-9
World-class bike routes and foot trails in the mountain playground surrounding Lake Wanaka are yours to explore • Opt for an excursion to scenic Milford Sound • Admire the spectacularly varied scenery and savor lunch in Pinot Noir country • Stay in picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital • Raft down the Kawarau River with expert guides who provide a unique perspective on the flora and fauna along the way • Experience the historic charm of Arrowtown, a quaint gold-mining town nestled in the mountains • Extend your stay in picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital.
Night 8
Set on a sprawling estate, this luxurious retreat offers style, tranquility and mountain views. (pool, spa)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
In order to access the most scenic routes and significant points of interest on this trip, strategic shuttles are incorporated into several days of our itinerary. Most will be limited to an hour or so at a time, but on some days you can expect to spend a bit more time in the shuttle—though always to reach a worthwhile destination!
Due to a significant rise in tourism in New Zealand, the South Island has seen an increase in car traffic along its western coast. While our shuttles are often along these busier roads, we ride on scenic bike routes off the main highway to ensure your safety while still delivering as much of New Zealand's grandeur and stunning scenery. Keep in mind that even on quieter roads, vehicles may move at faster speeds than you might expect.
While our hotels are some of the finest in New Zealand, the relaxed Kiwi approach to service is reflected in the hotels on this trip—they are down-to-earth, without a lot of bells and whistles, and may not offer the level of customer service that you might be used to.
Hotels
Adventure-Ready Hotels
Ideally located with ready access to trip activities, our Casual hotels are also known for their character and charm.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Casual Hotel
A welcoming mountain retreat and high-country sheep station surrounded by a beech forest and frosted peaks.
Night 3
*Premiere Hotel
A serene hotel that provides for every comfort—even offering a pillow menu. (spa)
Nights 4-5
Casual Hotel
This riverside lodge offers cozy guest rooms and excellent cuisine in a remote rain forest setting.
Nights 6-7
Casual Hotel
On the shore of Lake Wanaka with views of the magnificent Southern Alps.
Night 8
*Premiere Hotel
Set on a sprawling estate, this luxurious retreat offers style, tranquility and mountain views. (pool, spa)
Gallery
Bikes
Choose Your Perfect Bike
Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Included in your trip price
- Ideal for avid cyclists
- Responsive, efficient and comfortable
- Drop handlebars only
Included in your trip price
- Suited for a wide range of cyclists
- Comfortable ergonomic seat
- Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
- Upright handlebars only
Included in your trip price
- One of the lightest e-bikes available
- Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
- Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
- Upright handlebars only
- Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours; learn more
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
Please Select a Group Size
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
