4 Day Wonderful Wilderness Tour (Most Popular)
Grade 1-3 (beginner) 135km
Cost: NZD$1549 per person
Kiwi Journeys invites you to experience the West Coast like never before. Our all-inclusive 4-day, 4-night package offers exceptional accommodation, delightful cuisine, and top-rated activities along the trail, including the Treetop Walk, a scenic waterways cruise, and the stunning Hokitika Gorge. Simply arrive and let us handle the rest. This ‘Great Ride’ is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Itinerary
Whether you arrive by plane, the TranzAlpine train from Greymouth, or your own transport, Kiwi Journeys is here to ensure a smooth beginning to your adventure. We’ll pick you up and shuttle you to our Hokitika depot for a thorough pre-tour briefing and bike fitting. Once you’re all set, we’ll transport you to your first night’s accommodation.
Starting your journey in Hokitika, you'll be greeted with comfort and quality. Relax and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the West Coast, and be sure to catch a stunning West Coast sunset to kick off your adventure.
Begin your adventure by cycling south from Hokitika. Cross the Hokitika River bridge and ride alongside the lush golf course before entering the captivating Kohaihai Forest. This enchanting forest is renowned for its lush, ancient trees, including towering kahikatea and totara, which create a dense and serene canopy. Glide over boardwalks, traverse wetlands, and follow the historic Mahinapua Tramline. Built in 1911 to transport timber from the West Coast’s dense forests to Hokitika, this tramline was crucial to the region's early logging industry. As you ride along its remnants, you’ll experience the area's natural beauty and rich industrial history.
You’ll then encounter a short stretch of sealed road, leading you to the Treetops Walkway. Here, take a break from cycling to explore the elevated walkways. Spend at least an hour soaking in the sights and sounds of the native forest, listen to the vibrant birdlife, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Mahinapua from the treetop canopy. It’s also the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.
Afterward, retrace your route through the forest and return to your comfortable accommodation in Hokitika for a restful evening.
To conclude your day, your tour includes a scenic cruise on Lake Mahinapua, which will either be on the afternoon of Day 1 or Day 2 of your tour, depending on weather conditions. This tranquil boat ride offers a fresh perspective of the stunning region, providing a memorable end to your day’s adventures.
Your day begins with a shuttle ride that will transport you and your bikes to the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge. This stunning natural wonder features vivid turquoise blue waters set against dramatic rock formations, visible from impressive viewing platforms. The vibrant colour of the water is truly extraordinary and must be seen to be believed!
Following a 30-minute drive to the car park, embark on a short walk through lush native bush to reach the gorge. This addition to our popular tour, inspired by customer feedback, enhances your ‘Wonderful Wilderness’ experience.
After soaking in the beauty of the gorge, you’ll head to Lake Kaniere. Here, scenic spots like Hans Bay or Sunny Bight offer perfect locations for a relaxing lunch break and some fantastic photo opportunities. Lake Kaniere, stretching 8km long and 195m deep, is surrounded by towering kahikatea trees and abundant birdlife. In the summer months, you can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake.
Next, prepare for a delightful ride predominantly downhill. Enter another stretch of native bush and meander along the historic Kaniere Water Race. This impressive hand-dug water race, completed in 1875, was meticulously crafted to divert water from the Kaniere Stream to supply Hokitika's early gold mining operations. The race is a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the miners who shaped this landscape.
The Kaniere Tram Road will guide you back to Hokitika, where you can explore charming art and craft shops and enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea or a refreshing ale in one of the local cafés or restaurants.
Cycle back to your accommodation in Hokitika, reflecting on a day of stunning scenery and memorable experiences.
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be shuttled to Canoe Cove to begin your ride. Today promises a fantastic adventure, and you have the entire day to soak it all in.
Your journey kicks off with a gentle ride up the Arahura Valley, renowned for its picturesque river and rich history of greenstone (Pounamu) harvesting. The valley is famous for its lush scenery and significance in Māori culture as a traditional source of this precious stone. Follow the gravel road to Milltown, where the real adventure begins.
Today includes a short climb up to 300 meters at the Kawhaka Pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, enjoy a long and exhilarating descent into Kumara.
The Southern Alps will grace your path again, providing stunning backdrops for memorable photos. As you approach Kumara, a smooth, sweeping boardwalk and bush trail will guide you into town.
For your evening meal (at your own cost), a restaurant on site is available for dinner.
Hop on your bikes and set off towards the coast for your final ride of the trip! This last leg of your journey offers breathtaking views of the Taramakau River as you pedal towards the Tasman Sea, passing through scenic coastal sand dunes and tranquil lagoons.
Continuing along the Grey River, you’ll ride into Greymouth. If you wish to eat out, you can choose from a variety of dining options, including the renowned Monteith’s Brewery, famous for its craft beers and delicious fare.
Kiwi Journeys will greet you at the finish line, opposite the train station, at midday.
Enjoy your well-deserved celebration and take in the last of the stunning West Coast scenery.
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NZD $1549 per person
Minimum 2 pax (Adults)
Rates are valid until May 31, 2025.
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All West Coast accommodation (4 nights), subject to availability at time of booking
All luggage transfers
All required shuttles on the West Coast
Hokitika Gorge experience
Bike hire, helmet, repair kit & pump
Waterproof panniers and Kiwi Journeys water bottle
Treetops entry
Breakfast at all accommodation
2 x dinners at Scenic Waterways
Scenic Waterways Cruise
Detailed Kiwi Journeys wallet with maps and information
All bike relocation
Our first-class customer service and support
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12 months of the year. (Subject to availability)
Start dates are flexible - our Reservations staff will work with you to create an itinerary for your preferred dates (dependent on accommodation availability)
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E-Bike upgrade: $240 per person
TranzAlpine Train
