Coast to Coast NZ: Bike, Hike, Raft

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Christchurch to Otira via Serpentine Beach

   The coast to coast adventure begins in Christchurch around 8am with a drive across the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass to the West Coast. After a short walk from the shore of the Tasman Ocean, where you'll have the chance to dip your toes in the sea, you'll start your journey back to the East Coast. You'll cross the Serpentine Beach with vast views of the mountains to the bikes.

   Your first ride takes you inland to Kumara where you'll cross the Taramakau River and follow a mix of sealed and unsealed roads towards Lake Brunner. You'll cycle through native bush around the lakeside, and then lush valleys with a mountainous backdrop to the small settlement of Jacksons. The last short section of riding is along a highway and brings you to Morrisons River Bridge at Otira, where you'll load up the bikes and transfer to your comfortable accommodation.

   Tonight you'll enjoy a hearty group dinner together. Note: Sections of this ride is off-road.
   

   • 37.3 miles
   • Local accommodation
   • Lunch and Dinner

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     West Coast Biking

     Cycle across the country on a unique and awesome tour

2. Day 2Deception-Mingha River over Goat Pass - 30km Hike

   Today you'll cross the mighty Southern Alps by foot. After an early breakfast, you'll transfer back to the bridge where you finished riding yesterday and set away on a challenging hike up to Goat Pass. You'll walk up the Deception River which starts as wide river flats and narrows into a forested gorge. You'll follow a narrow track interspersed with long stretches of boulder hopping and scrambling along with multiple river crossings up to Goat Pass Hut, just before the high point, a fitting place for a rest and lunch.

   You'll then cross Goat Pass, elevation 1070m, and descend into the headwaters of the Mingha River and follow the valley southwards to the end of your walk at the confluence with the Bealey River. You'll emerge on the east side of ‘The Divide’ at Greyneys Shelter, near Klondyke Corner where the support vehicle will meet the group and transfer to your accommodation.

   Hiking Distance: 30km
   

   • 2,624.7 ft
     2,624.7 ft
   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Hike the Beautiful Landscape

     Traverse this striking terrain by foot

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     Goat Pass Hiking

     Journey through the pristine wilderness of NZ

3. Day 3Waimakariri River - 40km Raft

   Today you'll take on the mighty Waimakariri River on a 40km rafting adventure through the Waimakariri Gorge from Goosebury Stream to Woodstock. After a short drive to Mt White Bridge, you'll meet the raft guides and prepare for the journey ahead. The river is Grade 2, which is very straight forward and suited to beginner rafters, the ability to swim is recommended.

   At the river out-take, you will meet the driver and head to your accommodation in Springfield. Tonight you will have the last group dinner, celebrating your Southern Alps crossing.
   
   
   

   • Springfield Accommodation
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Go Rafting on Tour

     Spend the third day on the superb Waimakariri River

4. Day 4Gorge Bridge to New Brighton Pier

   The final day of your Coast to Coast adventure takes you from the Waimakariri River all the way to the sea at New Brighton. You'll transfer from your accommodation to the Waimakariri River Bridge and get on your bike for the last section of the tour. You can ride through farms and rural landscapes along quiet country roads, trending downhill all the way to the coast. You will arrive in New Brighton and the pier marks the end of your incredible journey where you'll then enjoy a celebratory soak in the newly opened He Puna Taimoana Brighton Hot Pools.

   In the early afternoon, you can be transferred into central Christchurch or to the airport for an evening flight.
   

   • 43.5 miles
   • Breakfast and Lunch

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     Bike NZ's South Island

     Ride, hike and raft on an epic and exhilarating journey