A2O Explore Mackenzie Country

Our A2O day ride options are suitable for all levels of riding, so choose from our options below, or talk to us about hiring a bike to explore for the day.

Lake Pukaki to Twizel (24km)

• The ride begins from the base of Tekapo B Power Station where the canal from Tekapo meets Lake Pukaki. While cycling around the lower section of Lake Pukaki you will have stunning views up the lake to Aoraki Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. More scenic photographs are taken from this section of trail than anywhere else on the Alps to Ocean route. Once reaching the bottom of Lake Pukaki the trail diverts off towards Twizel and zig-zags across an expansive flat tussock plain, terrain typical of this region of New Zealand, and an area encased in superb vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Tekapo to Twizel (55km)

• Begin from Lake Tekapo Village and enjoy an easy cycle following the canal as it flows from Lake Tekapo to Lake Pukaki. The first highlight is passing the Mt Cook Alpine Salmon farm located in the canal itself, and a few minutes later you will reach the top of Tekapo B Power Station. The 130-metre elevation above Lake Pukaki provides brilliant views of the Southern Alps and surrounding Mackenzie Basin. A few km from here and the trail around the lower section of Lake Pukaki begins. The trail then diverts away from Lake Pukaki and crosses the ‘Twizel Flats’ alpine tussock plain enroute to Twizel township itself.

Lake Ohau to Twizel (38km)

• This ride begins from Lake Ohau Lodge and follows the lake edge with views of the Ben Ohau mountain range and Lake Ohau itself. The smooth flowing track around Lake Ohau is flat and easy and enjoyable for all abilities, and is considered one of the top three lakeside trails of the Alps to Ocean. Maybe take some morning tea or lunch and stop along the lakeside at the halfway point. After crossing the Ohau Weir you will follow the Twizel canal and the quiet rural back-roads heading into Twizel township.