Nelson Lakes - South Island New Zealand

We start with a magical ride around the Marlborough Sounds coastline, to Nelson - famous for its high sunshine hours, arts and crafts and boutique wineries. Climb gradually to Nelson Lakes National Park, and then it's down spectacular Buller Gorge to the wild West Coast. See Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Paparoa National Park.

DAY 1 PICTON.
After lunch at a local cafe, take a short ride ( c. 20 kilometres) around the scenic bays.

DAY 2 NELSON.
Along Queen Charlotte Drive with its beautiful views of the Marlborough Sounds to New Zealand's sunniest city of Nelson.

DAY 3 ST ARNAUD.
We cycle through orchards, farmland and pine plantations on our way to Nelson Lakes National Park.

DAY 4 MURCHISON.
Time for a forest walk near the lake shore before following the Buller River down to Murchison.

DAY 5 WESTPORT.
Ride down impressive Buller Gorge to the sea and the start of the West Coast.

DAY 6 PUNAKAIKI.
Visit a seal colony and the famous Pancake Rocks and blow holes at Punakaiki.

DAY 7 CHRISTCHURCH.
This morning our mini-bus travels across the Alps to Arthurs Pass. We stop en route for lunch on our way back to Christchurch, where our tour finishes.