The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Ride is a 300 km journey from Aoraki (Mt Cook) to Oamaru in the South Island of New Zealand. Our group met in Aoraki for a birthday celebration and then most of us continued on, for a four day cycling adventure.
We farewelled Mt Cook and headed off to our destination for the day of Twizel. But first we had to stop in at Mt Cook airport where we (and our bikes) were helicoptered across the Tasman River. The helicopter can carry 6 passengers at a time (depending on weight limits). After the excitment of a helicopter ride, we had to settle down to the serious business of biking. Even though we were all on e-bikes (my life saver) it was still a challenging ride. The first section commenced with a trip over a rocky river bed, (a challenge in itself) but later on we moved onto formed track and sealed roads.
Day 2 was the section from Twizel to Omarama. This involved the steep hill climb that you encounter after leaving Ohau Lodge. We had had a flat fairly easy ride in the morning to Lake Ohau. Several riders took advantage of stopping to have a swim in the Lake before heading up to the Lodge for lunch. After lunch was the fairly hefty climb (even for an e-bike) up a narrow track. Phew I made it!! The views are absolutely mind-blowing and if you haven't been to this part of New Zealand it really is a must do. The views are fantastic at any time of the year, but especially in summer when the land is so dry and brown, the water is so blue and the sky and clouds blend as one. Do take care on this section, one of our group took a fall on the downhill and had to be helicoptered out. He is fit and well and has had lots more adventures since this trip.
Day 3 was the section of Omarama to Kurow. Most of the morning is spent cycling beside Lake Benmore. We found a great picnic spot for lunch, where we bathed our feet in the waters of Lake Benmore. The afternoon ride was up a long steep section to where you reach the bridge. You arrive to a great view of Benmore Dam and Benmore Power Station. Lake Benmore has a capacity of 1.25 billion cubic metres and the power station has generating capacity of 540 megawatts. I'm not sure about all the facts, but its quite an impresssive sight.
Day 4 was from Kurow to Oamaru. Upon leaving Kurow we were treated to a lovely ride by the river for most of the morning. As its very hot in January it was nice to be able to have a cooler bushy ride. Part of our journey today takes us through the Rakis Railway tunnel. The tunnel closed in 1930 and is now used by the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle ride as part of their cycle track. You will need a torch or a bike light as its quite dark in the middle of the tunnel. Although Oamaru is a welcome sight, it is quite a journey getting to the finish line, once you enter Oamaru. As you pass through Oamaru don't focus too much on the finish line, remember to take in the sights of the Oamaru Botanic Gardens and the Victorian Historic Precinct. Both worth a visit if you are staying on in Oamaru.
For more information on this cycle ride have a look at the A2O website. You will need to plan your journey ahead of time and ensure that you have accommodation booked in the places that you want to stop. A big thank you to Wendie who did all the organising and managed all of us along the way. A fabulous trip and without too much training anyone can do.
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