FAQ's

What is included in my tour?

Your tour includes good quality accommodation, all meals specified in the tour itinerary, your luggage transported, entrance to any attractions included in the tour and the services of a guide.

What do I need to bring with me?

Compulsory

Comfortable walking shoes
Thermal top - wool or polypro
Thermal bottom - wool or polypro
Waterproof parka with hood
Fleece jacket or woollen jersey
Woollen or fleece hat
Gloves
Medium size day pack

Highly recommended but not compulsory

Cycle shorts
Cycle gloves
Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Drink bottle - at least one litre capacity (we supply you with one bottle, but you may wish to bring another)
Swimwear
Camera
Small personal first aid kit including blister block or similar
Casual attire for the evenings
Any other personal items

Can I bring my own bike and helmet?

Yes, you can bring your own bike and helmet if you wish to or we do have hire bikes available at an extra cost. These are modern high quality mountain bikes that are well maintained and come with a helmet and safety vest.

What sort of accommodation and food can I expect?

A good standard of accommodation is provided on a double or twin share basis. Bathroom facilities may be shared some nights with other members of your tour.

You will enjoy great local cuisine; continental breakfasts and hearty packed lunches during the day, and either restaurant meals or wholesome home-cooked fare prepared by your host/hostess in the evenings. If you have any dietary issues or food allergies, we are happy to cater for these, please advise the office of details when you make your booking. Alcohol is not included in the tour cost, but is available for purchase most nights or you are welcome to bring a small amount with you if you prefer.

What are the guides like?

Our guides are experienced, friendly outdoor types who love to share their knowledge of New Zealand’s flora and fauna and local history. They all hold current first aid certificates and are the very best people to ensure your experience will be one to remember.

What do I carry while cycling and what happens with the rest of my luggage?

Your luggage will be transported for you each day to your accommodation that night. All you need to have with you is your daypack with your lunch, clothing requirements, camera and incidentals. This can be left in the support vehicle while you are cycling.

Do I really need thermals and a fleece, even in summer?

Yes, as some of the cycle tracks are exposed, you must be prepared for all weather conditions.

How many people are in each group?

Typically, we take a maximum of twelve people on each cycle tour. We feel this gives you the best opportunity to gain as much from your experience as possible. We are happy to discuss options for groups of more than twelve with you.

Can I come on my own?

Yes. If you are happy to share a room, we can pair you with another tour member of the same sex, otherwise you can request a single room to yourself. Please note, there is an additional single supplement fee for single room accommodation.

Do you have a risk management plan?

Yes, the company has a Safety Management Plan which has been checked and approved by a qualified and independent auditor.

How and when was the Otago Central Rail Trail established?

The Rail Trail is the first to be established in New Zealand. On closure of the Otago Central Railway line, the line was vested in the Department of Conservation who, with the help of a newly established Rail Trail Trust converted the old railway line to a track suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The trail runs through country not seen from the road, so it introduces the traveller to areas surrounding the old Goldfields of Otago and the historic nature of this unique area of New Zealand. With 150 kms of track and no difficult hill climbs, the track is able to be traversed by most people.

What is the distance between towns on the Rail Trail?

Middlemarch to Hyde 27 km
Hyde to Daisybank 11 km
Daisybank to Waipiata 13 km
Waipiata to Ranfurly 8 km
Ranfurly to Wedderburn 14 km
Wedderburn to Oturehua 11 km
Oturehua to Lauder 23 km
Lauder to Omakau 9 km
Omakau to Chatto Creek 10 km
Chatto Creek to Alexandra 17 km
Alexandra to Clyde 8 km

How fit do I need to be to travel the Trail?

A reasonable level of fitness is required but if you can ride a bike you can bike the Trail. Both children and elderly adults have ridden the trail, which is undulating but with no really steep hills. By pacing yourself, you will have an enjoyable experience.

What are the most important requirements for travelling on the Trail?

Sunscreen, sunhat and sunglasses.
Lightweight waterproof raincoat.
Any personal medication.
Torch (some of the tunnels are very dark).
Comfortable loose clothes suitable for cycling and walking (e.g. shorts, track suit, or light trousers)
Comfortable, strong footwear.
Camera and Cellphone (see Safety for Cyclists).

Can the Rail Trail be negotiated at any time?

The Trail is negotiable at any time of year.

What will I encounter on the Rail Trail?

The Trail is a motorised vehicle free area, and is similar to walking or cycling on a gravel road. Surfaces may be uneven in places and there can be loose material along the Trail. The Trail provides an opportunity to view scenery not seen from highways and to experience the tranquility and remoteness of the area. The history surrounding the line’s construction is also evident in the bridges, viaducts and tunnels along the way. DOC information kiosks at strategic intervals along the Trail provide information about specific features.

What facilities are on the Rail Trail?

Environmental toilets are located between towns. There are a number of small railway sheds along the Trail and many shade plantings have been made. Rubbish bins are not provided, and follow the adage ‘take only photographs & leave only footprints or, in this case, tire marks’.

What will the weather be like?

Spring (September-November): Coastal areas – 12 - 24ºC, Central Otago 15 - 25ºC (sunscreen recommended).
Summer (December – February): Coastal areas – 15 - 25ºC, Central Otago 20 – 30+ºC (sunscreen recommended).
Autumn (March – May): Coastal areas – 10 - 20ºC, Central Otago 10 - 26ºC (sunscreen recommended).
Winter (June - August): Coastal areas 4 - 10ºC, Central Otago – temperatures may range from - 10ºC to 10ºC.

Is the Rail Trail For Me?

If you want peace and tranquility, few people (on a 150km Trail it is not crowded), a chance to discover magnificent rural landscapes, a sense of history and an easy outdoor activity, then the Rail Trail is for you. The popularity of the Trail has grown rapidly, both in New Zealand and internationally

A Code of Conduct has been developed for the Trail.

Motorised vehicles and motor cycles are not permitted on the Trail.
Move to the left when you meet other users.
Leave gates as you find them. Do not disturb stock along the Trail.
Open fires, and firearms, are not permitted on the Trail.
Take all your rubbish away with you.
Always use toilets where available.
Give way to horses on bridges. Wait until the horse has crossed safely before proceeding.
Cyclists please take care when approaching and passing horses, particularly from behind.
Do not wander from the Trail. Land surrounding the Trail is privately owned.

Safety for Cyclists.

As with every outdoor activity, there is always the possibility of an accident occurring. While the Rail Trail is a very safe environment, much of it is very isolated, with a low population. While cellphone coverage has been upgraded, there will be blank spots on the Trail. It may take some time to cycle to an area where there is coverage (possibly 30 minutes).