After a transfer from Queenstown of broadly an hour and a half through the Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell and along the side of Lake Dunstan (spectacular scenery which contrasts vineyards and the bare rocky hillsides left after gold mining we arrived at Clyde and met John from Big Sky Bike Adventures to get kitted out with our ebikes.

That took a little longer than anticipated but after getting final adjustments and a quick practice spin around the car park we were off – heading towards Alexandra. The trail was firm and flat, passing through open farmland and vineyards and we soon got the hang of the bikes – you can really speed along (they assist your pedalling, they don’t replace it!) but the downside is the bikes are quite heavy.

After Alexandra the landscape became more interesting: rocky outcrops, blooming bright yellow broom and purple thyme. It didn’t take long to reach the Chatto Creek Hotel and a quick break for lunch. We saw a couple of other cycling groups there but it is early in the season so its pretty quiet on the trail. Then we were off, through more open farmland with mountains either side of the valley – and a long climb up Tiger Hill. Love those ebikes – Tiger Hill is a slow 8km climb. Unfortunately by the time we got to the top a niggling issue with Neil’s bike had become more serious and John and Neil doubled back to get a replacement bike where the Rail Trail crossed the highway – at the bottom of the hill – again – love that pedal assist!

Colleen and I pushed on and waited at Omakau but the change over was quick and the boys were only around half and hour behind us. The last part of that ride was a bit interesting with crosswinds in patches which was a little nerve wracking when you’re cycling on a raised railway embankment!

After that is was a quick 2km to Ophir and overnight stop Bakery Cottages. And a cold beer and later, dinner at Pitches Store just down the street.