Back in 2001 - Paul, Eliza (3), Karen & Sylvie (1)
You can still help! Our fundraising objective was to supply the Institute for Transportation & Development Policy (ITDP) with money to help the people of Tanzania access sustainable transportation options. Make an online contribution to continue ITDP's important work!
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A big THANK
YOU!!! Our
New Zealand expedition was generously funded by the Yosemite
National Institutes and the Matthew
Baxter Memorial Fund.
| Why
New Zealand? We chose our route with several factors in mind. After ruling
out Indonesia, India, and South Africa as a bit too wild for our infant’s
first road trip (perhaps next year?), we searched for a destination that
offered an alluring geographic goal. Riding the full length of New Zealand
fit the bill! Its climate seemed appropriate for an autumn tour, and the country
is rather “bike-friendly.” Cycling through New Zealand will also
allow us to continue our fundraising and education goals while on the road.
Finally, its astounding scenery and exceptional inhabitants are the perfect
combination for a cycle tour!
Our family will ride the full length of the country, from the northern tip of the North Island to the southern coast of the South Island. We will camp out whenever possible, use New Zealand’s network of hostels and Inns when location and budget allows, and make detours and side-trips to fully explore the astounding topography and natural wonders of this wild land. This two-month journey will be fully self-contained, with the kids riding in their Burley bike-trailer, and all of our gear packed in panniers.
Our 1,300 mile tour begins with a bus ride from Auckland to Keri Keri, followed by a hired van to Cape Reinga. From this northernmost tip of New Zealand we will cycle south on less-traveled roads passing through the Waipoua forest, Auckland (again!), Rotorua, and the Taupo/Tongariro plateau. Dropping down to Whanganui and Wellington, we’ll ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island. Depending on our pace and progress, we may choose a longer route via Nelson, Abel Tasman, the West Coast, and Arthur’s Pass. Otherwise we will continue south to Christchurch along the Kaikoura Coast. Heading inland to Mt. Cook and Queenstown is certain to be a highlight, before concluding our ride with a straight shot south to Invercargill. We are planning on 50 riding days, out of a total of 65 days in-country. This will allow us approximately 10 layover days on the road, while still averaging 26 miles per day.
Daily Trip Log (coming soon!) |
