This ride is a component of the ‘Great Ride’ – a 4-day iconic New Zealand trail ride that begins and ends in Queenstown. This portion begins at Kawarau Suspension Bridge and weaves its way alongside the Kawarau River and then continues on through the renowned wine valley of Gibbston.

This shared trail includes a boat transfer and is highly recommended in late spring when the wild thyme bursts into glorious purple bloom, scenting the air pleasantly. Otago is renowned for its colours so the purple blooms add a lovely new tone to the golden tussocks, greenery of the trees and grasses and grey bed stone rock.

This 73km long ‘Great Ride’ (one of a few acknowledged as New Zealand’s most iconic trails) only requires a moderate level of fitness. It’s a very well managed trail making it easy to follow and taking you through everchanging and attractive scenery that ranges from historical remnants and places of New Zealand’s gold rush, back country towns, swimming holes and picnic spots and classic tussock, mountain and riverside scenery.