Cambridge
Our trip starts here after transferring from Auckland when we arrive. About 1.5hr drive south of the capital. Cambridge is the home of Cycling New Zealand as well as NZ Rowing. A community rich with outdoor activity, independent cafés, rolling hills and a small town vibe. We spend three nights here staying in accommodation that is “cabin style” outdoor grilling, communal gathering spaces, and quick access to country roads for riding as well as a 20 minute walk to downtown Cambridge. Cambridge is also close to the Hobbiton movie set if you want to spend a day off the bike exploring middle earth.
Tauranga
On the fourth morning of our trip we transfer east over the mountains to the coast. Tauranga is a beach town famous for a mountain jutting out of the beach, known to the locals simply as "the mount." Our accommodation is just off the beach and close access to mountain roads. We step away from the rolling hills of Cambridge into steeper pitches of the east coast. A planned rest day includes a trip to Cathedral Cove, one of NZ’s famous “hidden” beaches. Accommodation will again be ground floor walk out cabins.
Rotorua
On the morning of the 7th day we transfer south west to Rotorua, a city known for its geothermal activity. A tourist town to be sure, known to the locals as Rotovegas. Rotorua has more flat riding and open plains. A large central lake in the middle of town is a great stop to cool off after a hot summer ride. The surrounding area has plenty of options for seeing the geothermal fields, geysers, and hot springs. We stay here for three nights before heading back to Auckland for the final evening before flying home to Canada or continuing your stay.
New Zealand Camp
Meals and Rides.
For each of our accommodations we will have access to kitchenettes or complete kitchens. TCR will provide breakfast and lunch at all three locations. The evening meal will cycle through communal BBQ, Dinner at a restaurant, and one night on your own to do as you please alone or with friends. All accommodations will be within walking distance of the city center.
Every day, we plan to offer a shorter 50-60km ride as well as a longer 80-100km ride. Driver support for the long ride with bottles and food, while the shorter ride will be supported on bike by one of our guides with flat repair, first aid, and gps Inreach. Each of the three locations will offer a tourist day off the bike. Hobbiton, Cathedral Cove, and Hot springs for example.
Â
Airports, Transport, FAQ
Auckland is the capital city of NZ and the location of their main international airport. Our trip starts with a flight from Calgary to NZ through Vancouver. Flight AC229/AC39 departs Feb 2 from YYC and we suggest all travelers join us on this flight. The return trip also departs from Auckland on Feb 14 if you plan to return with us.
For transportation, TCR will have two passenger vans as well as a box truck for bikes and luggage. If you plan to start your trip in NZ early please be at the Auckland airport the morning of Feb 4 to join us or in Cambridge that afternoon at our accommodation.
FAQ
It is unlikely we will be able to accommodate a dozen different arrival itinerary. For this reason we provide the best possible flight route and option right up front. If you need to take a different flight or have chosen to start your trip early please meet us at the airport Feb 4th or in Cambridge the afternoon of the 4th. Booking an airport shuttle for yourself and your bike through Roadcat is safe and easy.
Sorry but no. This trip is being organized by TCR and not through a cycle tourism company with a fleet of bikes. Dan will be available to pack your bike in Canada, unpack it in NZ, pack it again for the trip home, then unpack it back in Canada. All part of the cost of this trip.
Bike bags can be purchased at a discounted rate through us if you do not have access to one.
However, if bringing a bike is simply not possible, we can arrange through our contacts a bike shop where you can rent a bike in Auckland.
No problem! We will take care of you, just send your considerations and restrictions to when you sign up, we will plan to have options to suit you.
NZ is oddly reminiscent of Alberta in some ways. The roads are heavy chip seal and motorists vary from friendly to F’Trudeau black Ram truck drivers. We will plan our routes accordingly and ride
single file where prudent.
Most of the riding is rolling hills reminiscent of Priddis area and don’t forget, they drive on the left there.
Yes, for a cost we will fly your bike home and bring it back to TCR.
Yes! We have designed special NZ camp jerseys with Tutto Cycling. We will need get your size and style by December 2024.