Do I need a tandem with S&S couplings?
We highly recommend coupled (S&S) tandems for this tour. While not impossible to fly to New Zealand with a non-coupled bike we want to make you aware that this trip may cause you and your non-coupled bike more airline hassles than you might have previously experienced. Please call Tandem Cycle Works for information on our experience in flying with a non-coupled tandem.
Where does the trip start and end?
Our tour will begin and end in Christchurch, New Zealand. You should plan to fly into and out of the Christchurch International Airport where we will be met by our tour guide. Please note that on the flight to New Zealand we cross the international dateline. This means that you will arrive TWO days after you leave the States. Please plan to leave home on Saturday, December 26 for arrival in Christchurch, New Zealand the morning of Monday, December 28. If you plan to extend your trip you will need to make arrangements to meet us at the airport on Monday, December 28. Travel arrangements for departure should be made for Sunday, January 10.
What travel documents do I need?
You will need a passport for entry into New Zealand. If you don't currently have a passport we recommend that you give yourself plenty of time to receive or renew a passport. We would hate to have you cancel at the last minute just because you don't have your passport!
What will the weather be like?
The average daily high temperature in Christchurch and Queenstown in December and January is 72ºF. Having said this, it is also important to know that New Zealand does not have a large temperature range, lacking the extremes one finds in most continental climates. However, the weather can change unexpectedly — as cold fronts or tropical cyclones quickly blow in. Because of this, you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature. We will be riding along the South Island's west coast, or as the locals call it, the WET coast. As for any bike tour, experienced cyclists always bring good quality rain gear.
How much should we train?
We have found that those who train for a bike tour have a much more enjoyable time than those who do not train. While this is not Ride the Rockies it is a 2-week bike tour averaging 60 miles per day. Since this tour is in December and January you may not have the opportunity to ride as much due to the time of the year. Luckily in Colorado we have some warm days great for riding in October, November and even December. We suggest you do plan to devote some time to riding/training as weather permits (or perhaps taking some spin classes) to fully enjoy your time in New Zealand.
Is there a Sag Vehicle?
While we do have vehicle support, this is meant for emergency purposes and lugagge transfers rather than a "pick-up and drop-off" vehicle for any riders during the day. If your preference is to have a sag vehicle that follows over the course of the day and provides this pick-up and drop-off service for each mile then this may not be the tour for you.
What if we have to Cancel our Trip?
Tandem Cycle Works/Iron Donkey highly recommend travel insurance in the event of a medical emergency, lost baggage, or if you need to cancel your trip. Should you be unable to proceed with your tour for any reason you should inform us immediately. Our cancellation and refund policy for this tour is as follows:
- If you must cancel your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, there is a cancellation fee of $300 per person.
- If you must cancel your trip between 61 – 90 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price.
- If you must cancel your trip between 31 – 60 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price
- There is no refund for canceling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure.
Tandem Cycle Works/Iron Donkey cannot make exceptions to these cancellation policies for any reason, including personal emergencies and weather. Please note that we do not make any refunds for any unused portion of your trip.
In the unlikely event that Tandem Cycle Works/Iron Donkey have to cancel your tour for any reason, we will refund all money paid to us for your tour.
For more information please see the Terms & Conditions section of the booking document.
Have more questions?
Please call us at Tandem Cycle Works, 303-715-9690, or e-mail us.
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