Dunedin to Nelson, Late Spring 2017.

Highlights: Central Otago Rail Trail, Okarito, The West Coast Wilderness Trail, Maruia Saddle, Braeburn Saddle, Learning that New Zealand farms deer, meeting a bunch of other cyclists and the characteristically friendly people of the South Island.

Lowlights: Lots of pavement, campervans, trucks, bonking outside of Albert Town and lying in the dirt crying and shoving gummy candies down my throat (Strangely, that last one is a highlight of the stories from my trip).

I loved my time in New Zealand, and I feel so fortunate that I had the opportunity to tack on this cycling trip to the end of my work engagements in NZ/Australia. Bikes are so empowering, and if I can do something like this, anyone can. The mental part is much harder than the physical part. Start small and be realistic about your experience level, but don’t miss opportunities just because you’re scared you MIGHT be in over your head.

I followed the Tour Aotearoa route for most of my time in NZ, and there is a wonderful guidebook published by the Kennett Brothers, who do a ton of work promoting cycling and touring in New Zealand, check out the website for the Tour Aotearoa!