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Day 2: Māwhera Pounamu Pathway Immersive Experience, West Coast Wilderness Trail Cycling Adventure
South Island · Independent coach travel (self guided)

West Coast Wilderness Trail Cycling Adventure

  • 8 days, 7 nights
  • Starts and ends in Christchurch
  • Hotel 3 star
FromNZ$5,350per person, twin share

Where you will go

3 places you sleep in over 7 nights. Select a place in the list to find it on the map.

Overnight stop, in route orderVisited on the wayScenic trainScheduled coach, no guideStarts and ends in Christchurch. 3 overnight stops across 8 days, about 270 km of driving. Select a marker to open that day.

Overview

Independent coach travel (self guided). You travel on your own on scheduled coach services. Your seats and hotels are reserved; no guide travels with you. You are not left to it: your whole trip is in a travel app, and our New Zealand support team is a message or call away, seven days a week.

Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week during the winter months. 8 days through the South Island, starting and finishing in Christchurch. Along the way: Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Māwhera Pounamu Pathway Immersive Experience, TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus. Every night is booked and the travelling is handled, so the itinerary below is what you actually do rather than a list of things you could arrange yourself.

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 4 included activities
  • 8 meals included
  • 1 optional experience

Explore more:South Island toursRail and scenic trainsFamily holidaysSolo travellersChristchurch toursGreymouth toursHokitika tours

What is included, and what is not

Included in the price

  • 7 nights of accommodation, hotel 3 star
  • Scheduled coach travel between destinations, seats reserved
  • Scenic rail sectors with seats reserved
  • 4 included activities and entries along the way
  • A detailed day by day itinerary with every booking reference
  • Support from a New Zealand based specialist while you travel
Included activities
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens
  • Māwhera Pounamu Pathway Immersive Experience
  • TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus
  • Pre-Tour Night
  • Go to Whoa: The Full West Coast Wilderness Trail with Kiwi Journeys
  • Hokitika to Hokitika

Not included

  • International flights to and from New Zealand
  • Travel insurance, which we recommend arranging on the day you pay your deposit
  • Meals other than the 8 meals listed in the itinerary
  • 1 optional experience, each priced, which you can
  • Personal spending, tips and anything not listed as included

Anything here can be added. Extra nights, room upgrades, more activities or a different vehicle: tell us what you would change and we re-quote, no obligation.

Day by day

Christchurchview on Google Maps

Located just 15 minutes from the city centre, Christchurch’s 75-acre Botanic Gardens boast the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand. This impressive collection creates a tranquil oasis, with spring daffodils, stunning summer roses and herbaceous borders, vibrant autumn foliage, and cozy conservatories to warm up in during winter. There’s something to enjoy in every season. The New Zealand Garden also offers a unique glimpse into the country’s wilderness, providing a peaceful escape throughout the year.

Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.

Welcome to Christchurch City

Welcome to Ōtautahi / Christchurch, the South Island’s garden city, where historic heritage meets contemporary urban design. Whether you’re exploring the Avon River, wandering through expansive botanical gardens, or discovering contemporary art galleries, Christchurch offers plenty to uncover. As the gateway to the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps, the city is also the perfect base for refined farm-to-table dining, scenic adventures, and alpine escapes

Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and GondolaOptionalNZ$122 pp

Experience three of Christchurch’s iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You’ll also enjoy a bird’s eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city’s green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

ChristchurchTourism New Zealand
TonightScenic Hotel Cotswold

The Scenic Hotel Cotswold is just a few minutes walk to boutique shopping at Merivale and Hagley Park. The distinctive architecture of the Scenic Hotel Cotswold reflects Christchurch’s image as the most English of cities outside of England.

Greymouthview on Google Maps

Māwhera Pā in Greymouth is the first location along the Pounamu Pathway touring route to open. This self-guided experience is a historical and creative exploration of the Poutini Ngāi Tahu and the Māwhera Pā settlement people, retold by their ancestors. The exhibition will lead you through six different narratives, each tale including a large-scale masterpiece, artistically crafted by Weta Workshop to cultivate an immersive journey of visuals and sound.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus

's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat, a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Shared Transfer from Christchurch CBD Accommodation to Christchurch Train Station with Christchurch Touring Company

You will be met by a driver at your Christchurch Accommodation and transferred to the railway station.

TonightCopthorne Hotel GreymouthBreakfast and lunch

The hotel offers some of the most comfortable and well-equipped rooms in Greymouth. Settle into a slower pace of life and explore the South Island from the Copthorne Hotel Greymouth.

Hokitikaview on Google Maps

Begin your 4-day cycling adventure today with a safety debrief and bike fitting from Kiwi Journeys in Hokitika before your experience begins tomorrow.

Go to Whoa: The Full West Coast Wilderness Trail with Kiwi Journeys

The West Coast Wilderness Tour will take you along one of the country’s smoothest, most accessible and most popular cycle trails. Journey through ancient rainforests and wetlands, along historic bridges and down icy cold Glacial rivers. On the West Coast, you are likely to experience all weather events, making this an unforgettable cycling journey along New Zealand’s Wilderness Trail. Perfect for cyclists of all abilities, this grade 2-3 trail offers a relaxed and adventurous experience, but does require a baseline level of comfort on a bike. Not sure if it’s the right fit? Reach out to your travel specialist for some great alternatives!

TonightTeichelmanns Bed and Breakfast or similarBreakfast

Set in Hokitika’s historic heart, Teichelmann’s Bed & Breakfast offers quality accommodation on New Zealand’s West Coast. The beautifully restored heritage building is set in the very location of Eleanor Catton’s 'The Luminaries'.

Hokitikaview on Google Maps

Head off from Hokitika by bike, cruising south past the golf course and into the enchanting Kohaihai Forest. This serene, ancient woodland, filled with towering kahikatea and totara trees, offers a peaceful ride over boardwalks and through wetlands, following the historic Mahinapua Tramline. You’ll soak in the natural beauty and rich industrial past. A short ride on a sealed road leads you to the Treetops Walkway. Pause your cycle to wander among the canopies, enjoying vibrant birdlife and sweeping views of Lake Mahinapua. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch amidst nature. Afterward, cycle back through the forest to your comfortable Hokitika accommodation for a peaceful evening. Total distance - 28km

TonightWest Coast Scenic Waterways or similarBreakfast and dinner

Experience tranquility at West Coast Scenic Waterways Accommodation, set along the serene wetlands of Hokitika. Enjoy cozy, eco-friendly stays with stunning water views and easy access to kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks. Perfect for unwinding and connecting with the beauty of New Zealand’s wild West Coast.

Hokitikaview on Google Maps

Begin your day by shuttling to the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where vivid turquoise waters meet dramatic rock formations. After taking in this incredible sight, head to Lake Kaniere for a relaxed lunch and photos amidst the scenic bays. Then, enjoy a mostly downhill bike ride through native bush, tracing the historic Kaniere Water Race, hand-dug in 1875 and a testament to gold mining ingenuity. The Kaniere Tram Road leads you back to Hokitika, where you can explore local shops, or enjoy afternoon tea. Finish your cycle at your Hokitika accommodation, reflecting on a day of breathtaking scenery and rich history. Total distance - 29km

Hokitikaview on Google Maps

After a good breakfast, Kiwi Journeys shuttle you to Canoe Cove to begin your ride. Your ride starts with a gentle ascent up the Arahura Valley, famous for its stunning river and rich history of greenstone (Pounamu) harvesting. Follow the gravel road to Milltown, where the real adventure begins. Today includes a short climb to 300 metres at the Kawhaka Pass for panoramic views, followed by a long, exhilarating descent into Kumara. The Southern Alps will be a stunning backdrop for your photos. As you near Kumara, a smooth boardwalk and bush trail will guide you into town. The ride will provide you with incredible views of the Southern Alps and along a smooth sweeping boardwalk and bush trail so be sure to take your camera. Total distance - 47km

TonightTheatre Royal Hotel or similarBreakfast

Within the town of Kumara, one of New Zealand’s last gold rushes, the Theatre Royal Hotel was built in 1876 and is steeped in historic charm. The hotel was renovated and reopened in 2012 with a grand celebration where townspeople dressed up and old vehicles paraded the streets.

Christchurchview on Google Maps

On arrival at the Christchurch railway station, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch Scenic Plus

's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat, a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Kumara to Greymouth

Saddle up for your final ride! Head towards the coast, taking in breathtaking views of the Taramakau River as you cycle towards the Tasman Sea. You’ll pass scenic sand dunes and tranquil lagoons before following the Grey River into Greymouth. Once in Greymouth, you’ll find various dining options, including the famous Monteith’s Brewery. Kiwi Journeys will meet you at the finish line, opposite the train station, at midday. Enjoy your celebration and the last of the stunning West Coast scenery! Total distance - 28km

TonightScenic Hotel CotswoldBreakfast

Christchurchview on Google Maps

Bid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!

Private Transfer from Accommodation to Airport with Christchurch Touring Company

Enjoy a seamless, private transfer from your Christchurch city accommodation directly to the Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

Keep this itinerary

Email yourself the day by day to read later or pass on, or with every day open.

Optional experiences

1 available

Not in the price, listed under the day each one happens. Tick any you want and every price on this page updates; your quote comes back with them costed. Or leave them and decide once you are here.

Day 1 · Christchurch
  • Experience three of Christchurch’s iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The…

Nothing added yet.

Good to know

Departures

This itinerary departs on the dates that suit you, subject to availability. Peak season (December to February) books out early, so enquire well ahead for summer travel.

Make it yours

Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or extend into the other island. Tell us what you would change and we will re-quote, no obligation.

Never travelling alone

Your whole itinerary lives in a smart travel app with live vouchers, maps and daily guidance, and your own travel specialist is reachable seven days a week while you are on the road. If plans change, we rearrange them in real time.

Who you are booking with

Operator
This itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. We book it for you and stay your point of contact.
Silver Fern Travel
Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist (Insider), IATA certified, based in Auckland, New Zealand.
Prices
Quoted from the operator's own booking engine and refreshed weekly. The figure on this page is the one you will be quoted.
Paying
A 20% deposit confirms your booking; the balance is due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected.

Watch: Christchurch on this itinerary

Asked before booking

Something not answered here? , no quote attached.

Still deciding? Worth a read: Is the TranzAlpine worth it? A straight answer · The Cook Strait ferry, without the surprises

FromNZ$5,350per person, twin share
Per day
NZ$669planning included
Travelling solo
NZ$6,115single occupancy

No payment to enquire; a firm quote within one working day. Lowest priced travel dates, two sharing. International flights not included. A 20% deposit confirms your booking, with the balance due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected

100% Pure New Zealand InsiderQualmark Gold, the official quality mark of New Zealand tourism

Itineraries operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure Insider.

Request a quote for this trip

No payment, no obligation. A specialist replies with a firm quote within one working day.

When would you like to travel?

You will hear back within one working day. Quotes are free and there is no obligation to book.

  1. Tell us about your trip

  2. Get your firm quote

  3. Shape it until it fits

  4. Confirm with a 20% deposit

  5. Everything is booked for you

  6. Travel with us beside you

The Silver Fern Promise

You never hand over more than a small deposit

Nothing to enquire, nothing until your quote is confirmed in writing, and never more than your deposit until the balance falls due 70 days before travel. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme’s protections in play.

How your money is protected

A firm quote within one working day

Availability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.

No booking fees, and nothing to pay to enquire

Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.

One person, before and during your trip

The same specialist plans your trip and is reachable while you are travelling, alongside in-country support seven days a week.

100% Pure New Zealand InsiderQualmark Gold, the official quality mark of New Zealand tourismInsider status, Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme. IATA certified. Every itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator.

Questions before you enquire? Email hello@silverferntravel.com and ask. No form required.

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