It’s best to spend a bit of time in the saddle before tackling a long ride, especially if you’ll be biking for multiple days. Go for 2-4 bike rides a week in the 2 months leading up to your adventure and this will help with your fitness and, most importantly, get your bum used to sitting on a bike seat.
Central Otago weather can be very changeable. We recommend being prepared for all seasons and always carrying a waterproof jacket and leggings, gloves, sunscreen and warm clothes to put on if you get wet. These items will all easily fit into your panniers. See the full packing list below.
Yes, everyone that cycles these trails wears them and, yes, they will reduce chafing and cushion your bum! Choose from the traditional lycra bike pants to the more casual baggy shorts which look just like a regular pair of shorts (no one would even know!).
There are some long stretches on Central Otago's cycle trails with no refreshment/food stops. Carry plenty of snacks and take time to enjoy them at a scenic stop.
Central Otago is home to some of the most popular bike rides in New Zealand. The peak season is from December to May, so book well in advance to secure your spot.
Make sure you drink plenty of water while cycling these trails. Bottled water is available for purchase at cafes, shops and hotels along the way.
This isn’t a race, it’s your adventure, so take your time to explore Central Otago. We recommend cycling the trails over multiple days to really see, taste and experience this unique part of the world.
There are eco-toilets along the trail, but please carry your own toilet paper. Bring your mobile phone and have our app installed on it, as well as a small first aid kit and a torch for exploring the tunnels along the trail.
No wonder this organisation is 5 star! I would give it a 6. From the very first phone call right through to our arrival in Middle March and our transportation back to Wedderburn the service we got was impeccable. The accommodation booked for us was great and the dinner venues also great. A big thank you to a great bunch of people.
From pick up at the airport, to getting bikes sorted, to have accommodation all sorted and also lovely restaurants booked ... It all was very well done! Friendly and helpful staff, doing their very best to sort out any issues immediately. Bikes were very comfortable and enjoyable!
I cant fault our experience with Central Cycle Trail Co. Bikes were great, accommodation excellent we didn't have to think about anything and the cost was very reasonable. I would highly recommend. This is a great blue print for the other great rides in NZ.
From Pip & Lauren organising our accommodation and logistics, to Audry & Dave carrying out our transfers and face-to-face, we (group of seven friends) had a fantastic time in May, cycling from Middlemarch to Clyde. The bikes, the accommodation, the restaurants, the attention to detail - everything was perfect. Even the weather played its part. Thank you so much. Would not hesitate to recommend Cycle Surgery to anyone thinking about doing this trip.
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