Likely To Sell Out
5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$185
per adult
Central Cycle Trail Co.
Central Cycle Trail Co.
Central Cycle Trail Co.
5
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
With the Central Cycle Trail Co. you can follow the trails blazed by the pioneers of yesteryear. You’re not just looking for another bike ride, you’re looking for an adventure and you’ll find that here. Pass through landscapes shaped by Central Otago’s history and experience the true charm of southern hospitality. The Otago Central Rail Trail and its stunning surrounds are world-famous for a reason. We’ll make sure you give it your undivided attention. Leave the other stuff to us – we’ll help craft your ideal itinerary and make sure it all goes off without a hitch. All you need to do is turn up and enjoy the ride. We don’t believe in ‘one size fits all’ around here. These trails are here to be explored in whatever way suits you. From a romantic getaway, to a family excursion, to an adrenaline-packed ride, it’s all here waiting for you in Central Otago.
Tours and Tickets by Central Cycle Trail Co.
Rentals
2–5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$150
per adult
Travellers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
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5.0
543 reviews
Excellent
519
Very good
15
Average
5
Poor
2
Terrible
2
Anna W
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Couldn’t rate these guys highly enough. We had planned to do Routeburn track but this was unfortunately closed. A friend recommended that we do the rail trail and also recommended Cycle Surgery. Within a couple of hours they had organised 3 day itinerary which included bike hire, accommodation, bookings for meals, transportation of our bags each day and transport to where we were starting. It was awesome. The trail is wonderful, beautiful scenery, great places to stay on the way - totally recommend the crows nest in Oturehua!
Written 21 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony H
Palmerston North, New Zealand13 contributions
Mar 2022
Three of us rode the Central Otago Rail Trail over 5 days. The whole experience was effortless. From the first enquiry, The proposed schedule, Booking and taking part. The bags were transported , the bikes were good, The accommodation fantastic and the reservations for dinner really helped as at the end of a day of pedaling we didn't need to figure out where to eat.. The quality of the accommodation and restaurants we had been booked into was perfect. We had a mixture of conventional and e-bikes. I would probably recommend the e-bikes however The non e-bikes ensured we took our time and really enjoyed the scenery and all the information supplied along the trail. The app is really good, it gives all the info you need each day in good detail. It is a spectacular part of the country and we would recommend this.
Written 19 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for the review. Great that you had a fantastic adventure with us. A lot of our adventurers love the App so thanks for the feedback on that too.
We look forward to seeing you again soon on one of our trails soon. Plenty of cool trails to experience down here :)
Written 8 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
suepnz
Auckland, New Zealand58 contributions
Mar 2022
We selected Central Cycle Trail Co as we had used them 6 years ago and found the experience wonderful. We were collected at Queenstown Airport and taken to our accommodation in Cromwell for the night. The next day we cycled The Dunstan trail and found it challenging. It is definitely for more experienced cyclists but we made it to Clyde, eventually. The company was amazing as one of our group struggled and they set off, after closing time, to ensure they returned safely, "above and beyond the call of duty"! We set off the next day for a 5 day cycle to Middlemarch. Our accommodation was superb and the company arranged all restaurant bookings for us, and the meals were delicious. Our luggage was transported between stops so all we had to concern ourselves with was the cycling and with E bikes it was so much easier. The weather was incredible, the scenery along the way, stunning and the people we met were so friendly. Arriving at Middlemarch Central Cycle Trail Co employee, Min, drove us to our hotel in Dunedin. A lovely young woman and a very safe driver. I cannot speak highly enough of Central Cycle Trail Co and recommend them if you want a hassle free experience.
Written 27 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great to see you all on the trail. I must say that our missing friend was a real trooper when pitching up again the next morning bright and cheerful after a challenging day. Min is a rock star so thanks so much for recognising how wonderful she is. Hope to see you all again soon :)
Written 8 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Wendy D
Invercargill, New Zealand17 contributions
Feb 2022 • Family
Really disappointing experience with this company arranging a shuttle between cycle trailheads. Made an online booking 4 days out from date. Booking indicated contact would be made to confirm details but didn’t hear anything. Tried ringing while travelling to follow up but received no answer at any of the numbers recommended on the website and answerphone. Continued on the basis that the booking had been made and arrived at pick up point early. I made enquiries through another company at the location, who provided details of the local depot. Finally got through to be told they’d been so busy they hadn’t been checking emails. They found the request, but then proceeded to tell me the advertised 9.30 am departure had left at 9.00 am (it was 9.15 am) and the next departure wouldn’t be until 11.00 am, which was too late for us.
So, we had to return to the other trailhead where we’d left our bikes, complete the ride and then arrange another shuttle to return us back to our vehicle (not with this company I might add). I appreciate that they may have been busy, but a business taking 4 days to check emails…???!!
So, we had to return to the other trailhead where we’d left our bikes, complete the ride and then arrange another shuttle to return us back to our vehicle (not with this company I might add). I appreciate that they may have been busy, but a business taking 4 days to check emails…???!!
Written 26 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are very sorry to get this feedback and sorry that we let you down. Unfortunately we have been inundated with so many people having to change bookings and arrangement due to Omicron that your enquiry had slipped through the cracks. We have also had some staff away due to illness so it has been a very challenging time.
We pride ourselves on the quality of our service and our response to clients needs but on this occasion we had many things working against us. I hope that you understand the situation and we can welcome you back once life is back to normal.
Written 13 March 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Phil W
2 contributions
Feb 2022
We rode the Central Otago rail trail over four days, the Central Cycle Trail company arranged everything from bike hire,accommodation, bag transfers, to meals,everything went perfectly, the people we met from the staff to accommodation hosts and many others on the way were all very friendly and helpful .
We loved the scenery, the cycling, the accommodation, the meals and meeting like minded people along the way.
We found the price we paid to be reasonable and would happily recommend using Central Cycle Trail Co.
We loved the scenery, the cycling, the accommodation, the meals and meeting like minded people along the way.
We found the price we paid to be reasonable and would happily recommend using Central Cycle Trail Co.
Written 6 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your review and feedback. The Rail Trail is a special place and we are all so glad you loved it.
Written 13 March 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karen N
Auckland Central, New Zealand1 contribution
May 2023 • Couples
Central Cycle Trail Company organized a three day cycle trip for us including the Dunstan Lake trail and Rochester gorge. We found attention to detail by our ‘Adventure Planner’ to be very poor and when some errors in the itinerary she planned for us were drawn to her attention she became defensive. The final update we got from her was still incorrect. This particular staff member needs to learn something about what client service means and what client service recovery looks like.
Written 26 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So sorry to hear this Karen. We have had some changes with new staff and sometimes things like this can happen. I would like to hear from you so I can follow up. Please email my directly so we can put things right. Brendon@centralcycletrail.co.nz
Thanks so much
Written 27 May 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Natashajk
Christchurch, New Zealand16 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
I can’t rate central cycle trail highly enough, they thought of everything to make what sounded like a daunting trip as a solo mum of a ten and 12 year old easy. Zero mental load, we just enjoyed the holiday. The accomodation, restaurants, shuttle, bike fitting was just easy. The app. Was brilliant to refer to. We will never forget this trip for all the right reasons.
Written 13 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much Natasha! Good on you for getting the kids down the trail for a family adventure. Lovely to get your feedback and really pleased you enjoyed using our unique app that makes your trip easier :)
Written 13 March 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
kiwi_pair
Wellington, New Zealand19 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
We've just completed the 5 day Otago rail trail booked through Cycle Surgery. We were picked up in Queenstown and taken to Clyde to collect our bikes, get them fitted, and for our first night in the historic Dunstan house.
We loved chatting with all the cycle surgery staff we spent time with, and felt like we were really well supported the whole way.
The bikes were amazing, comfortable, reliable and easy to use. We tootled along at 20km most of the time, chatting away, with our panniers stuffed with beer and chips.
We liked all the different accommodations and dinner venues along the way. They've found some real characters there, and each stop was completely unique. Dinner was booked for us each night (luckily because there were not always many options), often with a pickup service in remote areas.
We got to Dunedin full of plans for future trips, and have already passed cycle surgery's details on to a few mates who are thinking to follow in our tyre tracks over the next couple of years.
We loved chatting with all the cycle surgery staff we spent time with, and felt like we were really well supported the whole way.
The bikes were amazing, comfortable, reliable and easy to use. We tootled along at 20km most of the time, chatting away, with our panniers stuffed with beer and chips.
We liked all the different accommodations and dinner venues along the way. They've found some real characters there, and each stop was completely unique. Dinner was booked for us each night (luckily because there were not always many options), often with a pickup service in remote areas.
We got to Dunedin full of plans for future trips, and have already passed cycle surgery's details on to a few mates who are thinking to follow in our tyre tracks over the next couple of years.
Written 5 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cynders2014
Auckland, New Zealand97 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
As mentioned by others below. Lovely trail, HOWEVER we felt communication was appalling. Plus fixing the problem of our bikes was rubbish. They were sending apparently a mechanic but guy who turned up said I’m just the driver I don’t know. They had changed our accommodation in one place because apparently everywhere was full(however as we found out at the pub most places were empty) and we found we were 15min out of Omakau.. The van we were left to drive out to the accommodation was disgusting state. We couldn’t even open the side door so had to climb over the front seat. We weren’t given any briefing before leaving of bikes etc and a couple of our group are not cyclists and not that familiar with Ebikes. Luckily myself and another could help. There was a problem with a power cut which in itself was not a problem as most of us are from farms and use to them, but it was the way CCT communicated with us when we were trying to find information on water pumps etc. Speaking to other groups on the trail all with other companies, they absolutely raved about the way their tour operators had handled things….so choose another company.
Written 18 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were genuinely disheartened to read your review. Reviews play a crucial role for small family businesses like ours. Our aim has always been to exceed our adventurers' expectations, as evidenced by our numerous 5-star reviews and great feedback. In light of the recent circumstances, we feel it's important to address the facts of your trip and the challenges posed by unforeseeable weather conditions.
Here are the key points we'd like to highlight:
A major weather event with 120km winds caused a district-wide power outage. Despite this, we went the extra mile, offering multiple solutions such as arranging dinner options in Alexandra which had power and opening our Clyde depot for your convenience. We strived to provide the best possible service despite the situation.
Your group received a comprehensive bike briefing and practice session before your departure from our Clyde depot, as part of our standard policy for all adventurers.
The issue with the e-bike was promptly addressed when we sent a fully serviced replacement bike from Clyde, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.
We maintained clear communication throughout, accommodating changes in your group's biking arrangements and offering our iconic CCT T-shirts to the non-riders at no extra cost.
We apologize for any inconveniences during your stay at Solandra Lodge in Omakau. While it was the only available accommodation at the time of your booking, we have taken note of your concerns and are taking steps to address them accordingly.
We hope that despite these unplanned challenges, you were able to enjoy the essence of your Central Cycle Trail adventure. We are more than happy to debrief your adventure at any time so please reach out.
Written 5 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
hjd150
Raumati Beach, New Zealand51 contributions
Feb 2021 • Couples
The team at cycle surgery were outstanding at every stage. Helping with planning and booking, the bike fit, the briefing to make sure we knew what we were doing to stay safe, the drop off and the transfer to Dunedin airport.
Sooo pleased that we picked SS to hire our electric bikes - they were the envy of all on the trail!
Sooo pleased that we picked SS to hire our electric bikes - they were the envy of all on the trail!
Written 15 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great reviews. Wondering about the average high temperatures, trying to decide whether to come in January or later in March or April. January reviews don’t seem to talk much about it being hot.
Written 25 November 2017
Hi Gary,
Thank you for your question. January temperatures can range from 10 - 30. We tell all our clients to be prepared for all seasons no matter the time of year. March weather is know for being the most settled - and not too hot. March is the busiest month of the year on the Rail Trail so I would recommend booking soon to save disappointment. Thanks
Written 25 November 2017
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