TIMARU &
THE ALPS 2 OCEAN
Inside the Episode
Deetz and Vandy start this ridiculously beautiful adventure in the quirky seaside town of Timaru, discovering trails that follow the black rocky beach hugging the rugged and beautiful coast. What a wonderful place! Then it’s time to hit the Alps 2 Ocean trail. A snappy 2 hour drive to Tekapo sets them up to begin this life changing, 300km experience. Starting at Aoraki Mt. Cook, the perfectly designed trail wanders through the most extraordinary scenery, with glaciers, river crossings, rolling tundra, turquoise lakes and funky little towns dotting the way to steampunk HQ of NZ, Ōamaru.
Meet the Locals
Debbie Tempelton-Page, York Street Gallery
Alisa Nicholls, River-T Wines
Jan Kennedy, Steampunk HQ
Tim Black, Hector Black's
Tracey Gunn, Twizel local
Tutepourangi, Dark Sky Project
EAT
EAT
RIver-t Wines
This stunning boutique cellar door along the A2O is the perfect place to stop in for lunch. Just outside of Kurow and owned by Paul & Alisa, you’ve got to stop in for a platter.
EAT
cucina
End your A2O adventure in Ōamaru and treat yourself to a meal at Cucina. The cuisine reflects the owners Yanina & Pablo’s mix of South American, Italian and Spanish heritages.
EAT
hector black’s
An unexpected surprise in the heart of Timaru is Hector Black’s Lounge Bar. Even if you don’t go for a drink, go just to check out the decor and meet the owner Tim!
stay
STAY
valleyviews glamping
Key word: Views. This is your place to stay in Kurow.
STAY
Lake Ōhau lodge
With views for days and all your meals included, this is an amazing place to stay along the trail.
STAY
mariner suites
Gorgeous, brand new accommodation in Ōamaru.
STAY
the old school enfield
This converted school offers unique, boutique accommodation.
play
PLAY
Te Ana Māori Rock Art site
South Canterbury is home to hundreds of Māori Rock Art sites and this one is particularly significant. Take a tour and learn about the history of this region.
PLAY
Scenic Flight to Tasman Glacier
You can head out with Mt. Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters and hike along a glacier! Year round… And if you’re lucky enough they’ll even let you into an ice hole.
PLAY
Dark Sky Project
Tekapo is a dark sky reserve (meaning there is very little light pollution). Make sure you take a guided tour to check out the amazing night sky.
high country salmon
Catch your own salmon and then eat it at High Country Salmon. It’s probably the freshest salmon we’ve ever eaten and such a fun stop along the A2O.
elephant rocks
The Elephant Rocks in Duntroon are a must stop along the A2O. Make sure you pop into the Vanished World Centre to learn all about these behemoths and fossils in the area.
steampunk hq
Ōamaru is famous for steampunk and this quirky museum is absolutely worth a visit.
ride
RIDE
Washdyke to Pleasant Point Trail
This trail takes you from the coast, through the country side and out to beautiful farm land.
RIDE
Alps2Ocean Trail
This 300km ride is an absolute must do. Grab an e-bike, take 5 days and marvel at some of the best scenery you’ve ever seen.
RIDE
Timaru Coastal Trail
Prepare to be blown away and not just by the sea breeze. This gorgeous coastal trail follows the cliff top, past crashing waves and the cutest little lighthouse in the world, through to wetlands positively teeming with birdlife. Linking up with the Timaru MTB park be on the lookout for the train as it rumbles past. Grade 1-2.
Check out our interactive map to learn more about where we went in this episode of Trail Towns.
Make sure to let us know if you replicate this adventure via social media!
This episode is sponsored by
Explore Other Episodes
Episode Five: Timaru & the Alps 2 Ocean
Episode Six: Queenstown & Wānaka
Episode Three: Lake Taupō
Episode Four: Christchurch & The West Coast
Episode Two: The Hauraki Rail Trail and Rotorua
Episode One: Auckland & The Twin Coast Cycle Trail