The New Zealand cycle trail is an exciting network of rides designed to enable you to explore the best parts of NZ by bike. 

Our tours unique hop on and off structure give you the chance to explore these exciting new tracks.  You can find out more about how cycling options work on our bike pages.  The New Zealand cycle trail consists of 18 rides with a number still in development but many open and ready. 

Cycle distances vary and there are plenty of options to suit cyclists of all levels.  There are ride options throughout the country and its possible to take extended breaks from your trip, explore the area and the trails then jump back on with your fellow passengers.

For those bringing their own bikes or groups looking to charter their own vehicle there are also heaps of options – just contact us and we will help design the ultimate bike tour.

Thanks to everyone for your excellent entries in this years photo comp.  We had some superb pictures, capturing the unique beauty of New Zealand and wonderful captions on their experiences with Flying Kiwi.  So…..the winners are:

FIRST PLACE – Derek Craddock (winner of a shiny new mountain bike)

Photo by Derek Craddock

caption: “One of the greatest moments of the trip. Kayaking along the shores of Abel Tasman National Park.
Flying Kiwi took me through here and almost every other type of landscape, exploring amazing scenery that captivates me still. If you want adventure and to see scenery as amazing as this, Flying Kiwi is where it’s at.”

RUNNER UP PRIZES (each winning a superb travel kit for their next adventure)

Photo by Alexander Meiswinkel

Caption: “After an awesome holiday with Flying Kiwi, I’ve got such great pictures which always will remind me of that adventure and those good times! Unforgetable Memories!”

Photo by Kristin Webster

Caption: “New Zealand is known for its abundance of outdoor activities and the overall sense of adventure it cultivates; Flying Kiwi is an excellent reflection of that notion. As a solo traveler looking to explore off the beaten track and experience everything this country has to offer, I could not have chosen a better tour group! Flying Kiwi provides the opportunity to touch on all the great tourist attractions and adrenaline activities, but also shares secrets of the hidden gems to be found – all while looking after and interacting with a group of “instant friends” from around the world. Cooking and camping together adds so much to the sense of family that develops over a few short days and prepares groups to work together and trust one another amidst the different challenges they may face – be it battling unexpected weather changes while tramping, displaying excellent teamwork to master class 5 rapids, or simply encouraging one another to face their fears and jump off a bridge with a rubber band tied around the ankles! Strong leadership from the guides, a comfortable atmosphere in the bus and tents, nutritious food, flexibility and support from the office team, and active, engaging peers all contributed to make my experience with Flying Kiwi a positive one to rave about and remember for years to come!”

Photo by Sandra Binzegger

Caption: “A different perspective, isn’t it? That’s exactly what Flying Kiwi offers you on its tours – a different perspective on a beautiful country with way more sheeps than “Kiwi’s”. But hey, not only that, this photo shows more: it’s a sign for activity and adventure in nature; a strong lead in the middle who does any effort to make the trip unforgettable; in the centre a map for routes you would normally not take; the orange vests as a symbol for safety (always kept in mind); the colours of the helmets for the unique mix of the group – young, old, from every part of the world and all walks of life. And finally the circle itself: Participation and a fantastic spirit within the group – you’ll have literally “the time of your life” with people you didn’t even know before. That’s when random people become good friends. That’s Flying Kiwi! =O)”

Photo by Rob Slade

Caption: “First and foremost Flying Kiwi provides food, accommodation and transport, with the majority of it being included in the very affordable price tag. But they offer so much more than that! They provide you with a platform to do some of the most exhilarating things on earth such as jumping out of a plane at 16,500 feet, and some of the most surreal such as swimming with wild dolphins (pictured above). These are just two of your many options, most of which come with a discount! The element of sleeping in tents and cooking together brings then group that much closer and creates a big sense of camaraderie, like that of a family. At the head of the ‘family’ are the Flying Kiwi guides who are extremely laid back, have exceptional knowledge of the country and what it has to offer and are always up for joining in and having a laugh. In part, they are what make the Flying Kiwi experience so unique. This was my first major length of travel and Flying Kiwi has made it one which is going to be very had to beat!”

Photo by Emmanuela Vilar Lins

Caption: ҬThere is not in the wide world a valley so sweet
As that vale in whose bosom the bright waters meet;
Oh! the last rays of feeling and life must depart,
Ere the bloom of that valley shall fade from my heart.¨
The Meeting of the Waters by Thomas Moore

To my Flying Kiwi family (Routeburn Trekking)”

When planning your New Zealand tour it’s hard to know where to start – but perhaps we can help.  New Zealand’s greatest assets are  stunning landscapes and vistas – nowhere is this better demonstrated or experienced than in the countries wonderful national parks.

There are 14 national parks in New Zealand, each with its own unique appeal and beauty.  However, there are 3 that we would highly recommend integrating to any trip or tour around New Zealand.

Abel Tasman National Park

1. Abel Tasman National Park

Our local and favourite national park.  Located just a short distance from the Flying Kiwi head office in Nelson, the Abel Tasman sits atop the sunniest region of the country.  This reliable weather enhances the opportunities to get out and explore the most beautiful beaches, bays and lush forests NZ has to offer.  The Abel Tasman is quite smiply paradise!  Long stretches of deserted golden beaches, turqoise clear waters frequented by a myriad of aquatic and bird life and a fantastic variety of adventure activities.

The Abel Tasman is integrated into most Flying Kiwi tours and is always a big hit with our passengers.  For further information on the park use this link.

2. Tongariro National Park

Tongariro is located in the heart of the North island and is the oldest park in New Zealand and the fourth oldest in the World.  It is listed as a World heritage area for both its outstanding natural beauty and its important Maori spiritual and cultural connections.

The park is also home to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – regarded by many as the best one day walk in the World.  This fantastic trek is usually undertaken by all Flying Kiwi passengers without regret.  It’s a rewarding, inspiring and diverse walk taking in spectacular volcanic terrain from start to finish.  For more information on the park use this link.

3. Fiordland National Park

Milford Sound

Last, but by no means least, is the wonderful spectacle of Fiordland National Park.  For many visitors to New Zealand this region is THE must see on their trip and is considered one of the great wilderness areas of the Southern Hemisphere.

As you breathe in the crisp, alpine air you’ll be surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, deep lakes and huge glaciers. The area is also home to Milford Sound – recently rated as one of the new natural wonders of the World.  On your Flying Kiwi trip there’s the chance to enjoy a great boat ride into the heart of the sound.  Frequently escorted by dolphins you will feel the spray of waterfalls falling from from hundreds of feet and journey through huge channels carved out by glaciers over millions of years – it’s a truly unfortgetable experience.  For more information use this link.

Traditionally a safari involves scorching temperatures, arid deserts, ferocious predators and a desperate hunt to spot the Big 5. Well Flying Kiwi have found a new and altogether more relaxing combination – the Friendly 5.

Forget lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos and think friendlier, think entertaining and think New Zealand. Famed for our great hospitality and wonderful scenery we also have the five of the finest wildlife characters you could hope to meet:

1. Dolphins On a Flying Kiwi trip we have numerous operators to interact with the seas friendliest showman. Whether you decide to swim with them, view them from the boat or kayak along gorgeous coasts with dolphins for company we highly recommend taking time to experience our favourite aquatic performers.

Of particular note is our dolphin swimming experience in Kaikoura. Set to a backdrop of snow capped peaks and stunning coastline the dusky dolphins that frequent this area are amongst the most interactive in the World. Pods (dolphin speak for groups) often reach into the hundreds and they won’t be shy about swimming alongside you and showing you their favourite tricks. You can get more information at this link.

2. Yellow Eyed Penguins
Another wonderful animal that calls the coasts of New Zealand home. Weighing in at around 6kg and tottering at a height of around 75cm these good looking birds make everyone smile. Wearing a band of bright yellow around the top of its head it’s easy to see why it’s considered the superhero of the penguin World. Aside from its good looks they are also social chaps and a great highlight for many on our Flying Kiwi trip. The best place to spot them is at the exceptionally well run yellow eyed penguin colony south of Dunedin. Find out more about them at this link.

3. Sperm Whale
Weighing in around a staggering 57,000 kilograms this is the big daddy of our Friendly 4. At around 20 metres long they are the largest toothed whale in existence and potentially the smartest? With the largest brain of any modern or extinct animal we may have a lot to learn from these majestic giants. They also have access to a World we know little about with the ability to dive distances of up to 3 kilometres. Its prior to these great dives you will get the best chances to see these wonders as they perform their celebrated breach and raise their iconic tails for your perfect postcard moment. The best chances to witness this spectacle is on our whale watching trip in Kaikoura. You can find our more at this link.

4. Kiwi Bird
The native kiwi bird is unique to New Zealand and one our most cherished and protected icon. Unfortunately numbers have declined but a concerted effort from numerous organisations throughout New Zealand is giving them the best possible chance to repopulate their homeland. These totally unique characters are a joy to watch and fascinating to learn about – did you know that Kiwi birds are the only ones to have nostrils at the end of their beak!! You will learn plenty more and potentially get the chance to view these wonderful birds on your trip.

5. Sheep

Yes, last but not least those big fluffy fellas. Despite an apparent drop in the ratio of people to sheep (once at a mythical high of 20 sheep to every person) it still stands at an impressive ten sheep for every individual.  That leaves plenty of these friendly, fluffy faces to dot the landscape and provide your iconic shot for friends back home.

New Zealand is the perfect place for pedal power! With a range of rides to suit all levels its the ideal place to get out and active, plus with minimal traffic you will have countless stretches of maginificent scenery to yourself.

However, a bike tour does mean some restrictions, as they offer little time to enjoy the enormous range of adventure activities available.  Enter Flying Kiwi.  The unique tours offered by Flying Kiwi give the chance to combine cyle touring with your choice of adrenalin activities. From skydiving to penguin watching and sailing to bungy there is something for everyone.

Everyday you can choose whether you want to take to the bike, try a new activity or combine the two.  It’s the ideal way to have fun, get fit and explore one of the World’s most stunning natural playgrounds. For more information visit the cycle section of the Flying Kiwi website.

With so many activities to choose from it’s hard to know where to start when deciding how best to “invest” your hard earned dollars.  New Zealand tour company, Flying Kiwi, have recently launched a blog written by travellers that offers genuine, impartial reviews on the activities they have enjoyed during their trips.

From skydiving to the Tongariro crossing there is plenty to take in and get you excited about your trip to New Zealand.  Keep your eyes peeled as there will be plenty more to come.  Check out the blog at http://new-zealand-adventure-tours.com/

If there is one tour that nearly everyone on our bus did, it was the Milford Sound Cruise. It is New Zealand’s most famous attraction and we can understand why. Milford Sound offers up some of the most striking landscapes on earth. With Sea Cliffs that rival the Bay of Fundy in Canada and Kalaupapa National Historic Park in Hawaii you are definitely in for a day of feeling surrounded by giants.

It is a relaxing afternoon and the perfect chance to absorb one of natures greatest wonders. Flying Kiwi is a great tour for people with a lot of energy and the Milford Sound, Te Anau portion of the trip gives the passenger just the right amount of time to recharge their batteries.

Most days of the year, Milford Sound is rainy and overcast, but luck was on our side today. We had sunshine and almost balmy weather. There were times on the boat that we actually took our jackets off for a time to bask in the sun.

One of the most famous aspects of the Sound are the waterfalls. Normally they are out in full force on rainy days and that is usually what most people miss when visiting on a sunny day, but because it had rained for 6-days straight before our visit to Milford Sound, we had the best of both worlds. Waterfalls fell in full force into the bay as the sun sparkled in their dancing drops.

If there is one thing that you cannot miss when visiting New Zealand, it is a boat tour of Milford Sound. If you don’t go it would be like going to Egypt without visiting the Pyramids…it is really something that must be done!

New Zealand is stunning, spectacular, jaw dropping, inspiring, beautiful, natural and accessible.

The variety and beauty of unique landscapes is only properly appreciated when you visit.  However, photographers of all levels enjoy their shots at representing its’ amazing beauty.  The following are a few pics taken from passengers on Flying Kiwi’s New Zealand Tour – none of these guys are professionals but the images wouldn’t look out of place on a gallery wall.

So what are you waiting for – get here, get exploring and experience this stunning country for yourself.

Enjoying the Routeburn track

find your piece of new zealand paradise

Exploring Fox Glacier

Thermal wonderland at Rotorua

Milford Sound

Jet boating in the South Island

Alpine views

Want to get a real taste for a New Zealand Adventure Tour?

Flying Kiwi have launched a new blog written by travellers for travellers.   You can view and subscribe to this latest literary masterpiece at - http://new-zealand-adventure-tours.com/

All posts are written by Flying Kiwi passengers and provide a great, honest and unbiased rundown of their experiences with Flying Kiwi.  The first blogger has just jumped onboard and numerous others are lining up to put their posting skills to the test.

If you’re any of the following:

- experienced blogger

- budding travel writer

- photography hotshot

- video guru

- naturally interesting and entertaining

then contact us for more information about offers available to our guest bloggers.

New Zealand is spectacular and everyone who visits falls in love with its stunning natural beauty. However, being immersed in these wonderful landscapes we are a little biased.   To help add some perspective we have called in the views of top travel industry professionals from around the globe. The following highlights just a few of the great travel awards New Zealand has received over the last couple of years (we should also point out this doesn’t include the upcoming rugby world cup triumph!!).  We know New Zealand is amazing but don’t just take our word for it, see what the professionals say: 

2011 Travel Awards

- New Zealand top international destination in CNNs best destinations on Earth – read more

2010 Travel Awards

- New Zealand rated ‘Best Tourism Country Outside Europe’ in Danish travel awards for Stand By magazine

- British Lonely Planet readers rated New Zealand as their top place they’d ‘happily stay for ever in…’ – read more

- Prestigious Condé Nast magazine readers put New Zealand among their top-five favourite holiday destinations

- Travel bible Wanderlust listed New Zealand in its top 3 most satisfying holiday destinations

2009 Travel Awards

- Lonely Planet staff listed New Zealand as one of the “Top 10 countries to visit”

- Voted favourite long haul destination in Britain’s Guardian and Observer newspapers

- Flying Kiwi rated as one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by esteemed publication, National Geographic

So what are you waiting for….come and visit the youngest country on Earth and enjoy this outdoor paradise.