H+I Adventures, a tour operator specializing in cultural mountain biking experiences, has added a New Zealand package to its lineup. The new itinerary explores the South Island, famed for its dramatic mountains, glaciers, geothermal hot springs and rugged coastline.
The first departure for the New Zealand adventure is scheduled for January 25, 2016. The 13-day trip is now open for booking and is aimed at riders who want to combine world-class singletrack with local culture and wilderness exploration.
“Travelers on our newest mountain biking holiday will storm the South Island and discover the local’s favorite trails and wilderness escapes,” said Euan Wilson, director of H+I Adventures. “We’ve custom designed the trip with our Kiwi guides to feature the country’s best riding spots and some South Island secrets that are not to be missed both on and off the bike.”
The route starts in Christchurch and finishes in Queenstown, threading through spectacular backcountry terrain along the way. Days are focused on mountain biking on a variety of trail types—flowing singletrack, technical descents and scenic cross-country routes—while evenings are reserved for cultural experiences and relaxation.
Off-bike activities are built into the itinerary and offer options such as soaking in natural hot pools, coastal excursions, whale and dolphin watching, guided hikes— including the possibility of walking near Mount Cook—plus opportunities to sample local craft beer. The balance of active riding and slower cultural moments gives riders a true sense of the South Island’s landscapes and communities.
Accommodations are included and selected to reflect the character of the region. Lodging ranges from boutique hotels to working farm stations and remote mountain huts. On particularly isolated nights, luggage may be transported by helicopter to enable stays in exceptional, off-the-grid locations.
This New Zealand package is presented as a fully supported mountain biking holiday with local guides, varied terrain and curated activities that highlight both outdoor adventure and regional culture. Interested travelers can contact H+I Adventures to inquire about availability, difficulty levels and what is included in the price.