The Alpine Pacific Touring Route (APT) is an unforgettable adventure for all those who love road trips, epic scenery, and unique experiences. Discover an excellent balance of eco-adventure and indulgence as you visit wineries, dine on delicious food, strap on your helmet, and explore the APT on two wheels. The signposted and accessible roads, plus the online maps, create an air of ease on the APT. Whether you are caravanning, campervanning, or simply staying in accommodation with the locals, this alpine touring route has you covered.
450kms of spectacular, and that it is. Winding from Christchurch, through the Hurunui district, and rounding off in Kaikoura , there truly is something for everyone. Taste award-winning flavors at Greystone Wines in Waipara valley or dine on a freshly caught Crayfish in Kaikōura , follow art trails, relax on the beach, and delve into the urban metropolis of downtown Christchurch during your visit. We break down the what, why and when so you can plan your incredible adventure here on the south island of New Zealand.
There is an experience to suit everyone's taste here on the APT. If you love bike riding, great, the APT is peppered with incredible trails through all three regions. If you prefer to swap the helmet for hiking boots, you are spoiled for choice with backcountry trails and if you are a foodie, get ready to unbuckle your pants and dive into a delectable wine and food scene along the route.
No visit to Christchurch is complete without a downtown city cycle tour. Experience the incredible architecture, rehabilitation efforts, and street art during a two-wheel tour. Drop into Chill Out and meet Stu, your expert guide who will fill you to the brim with local knowledge. If you are keen on cocktails and delicious dinner locations, then head to the Fable Hotel after your day of exploring. With an extensive cocktail menu, beautiful lounge area, and selection of après (starters) to tickle your taste buds. Amazonita is one of Christchurch's best eateries. Set in a jungle theme, the cozy vibe is instantly inviting, and the food is excellent!Grab share plates to maximize your menu time and wash it down with a tiki cocktail.
The two-wheel adventures don't stop in the city. On route up the east coast, you will pass through Waipara Valley, famous for its wine, beautiful scenery, and biking trails. The Hurunui trail is quite the adventure. Work your way from winery to winery, and be sure to book into Greystone Wines for a five-course tasting menu, with wine, too, of course. Save yourself for the evening as If you are lucky enough to be a guest at the Ribbonwood Country House for the evening, you are in for a delectable array of homecooked food that will have you questioning your culinary skills.
Did you visit Kaikōura if you didn't get out on the water? Kaikōura is a mecca for the hunter and gatherer. You are never far away from your next catch with hunting blocks and fishing on your front and back doorstep. Head out with the team at Kaikōura Kayaks for an unforgettable morning with the dolphins, and you might spot a cheeky seal. An early morning fish with Top Catch Fishing Charters will reward you with Crayfish, perch, and maybe even a blue cod that you are welcome to take home and cook up for dinner. Don't forget to head to the lookout for sunset, and we promise you won't be disappointed.
Like any great adventure, a new one is always the best one. The Alpine Pacific Touring Route is New Zealand's latest route. Crossing through three very different and diverse regions, the route ticks so many boxes you might find yourself adding days to the end of your trip to squeeze more in. The journey of unparalleled variety keeps you and your road trip crew entertained and full of adventure from start to finish. Why wouldn't you give the APT a go next time you are in the south island from the big city, so secluded bays, a chance to fish, and backcountry bike riding?
How quickly can you pack up your bags and hit the road? The Alpine Pacific Route is open all year round, and depending on what kind of traveler you are will depend on your departure date. If you are keen to maximize your time on the APT, then early mornings and late sunsets mean you can squeeze in many an adventure. Summer brings scorching temps on the coast and long, dry days. Spring and Autumn are the shoulder seasons, somewhat quieter and incredibly beautiful. With cooler temps and fiery autumn colors throughout the region, you will fill up your camera quicker. Winter is still a great time to visit. With snow on the hills and a chill in the air, it is a great time to hunker down at cozy accommodation en route.
We have said it before and will repeat it. The APT has something for everyone. We have you covered from campsites, guest houses, lodges, and more. If you are traveling in a group or solo, the APT has various accommodation options to suit all budgets. If city escapes are your thing, the team at Fable Christchurch are perfectly located for you to explore the surroundings on foot. If you are traveling in your campervan, you can't go wrong with the Kaikōura and Hanmer Spring Top Ten holiday parks. Guesthouses are aplenty, and the Ribbonwood Country House is the little bit of Lux, just north of Christchurch that you have been searching for.
We promise a trip on the APT will be a highlight of your New Zealand adventure holiday. If you are keen to check out more, follow the links below to school up on the APT before hitting the road.
Chill Out Cycle Tours
View from the Fable Hotel
Greystone Vineyard
Ribbonwood Country House
Top Catch Fishing Charters
KKaikoura Kayaks