Anyone done the Otago rail trail in New Zealand? We're off to NZ at the end of the month and thinking about getting in a few days cycling. Not exactly the most strenuous ride, but the other half is not an experienced cyclist.
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Otago Central Rail Trail
- Thread starter Evilcat
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rualexander
Legendary Member
Yes, the Otago Central RT is an excellent route, fairly easy going, plenty of accommodation options, and very scenic. Also Central Otago has New Zealand's best summer weather generally speaking. Be prepared for it to be hot and dry, february temperatures can be well over 30 degrees C, sometimes even up to 40 degrees.
We did it back in 2002, so things will have changed a bit since then with regard to accommodation and prices. We did it over 5 days, with the first day including the excellent train ride up from Dunedin on the Taieri Gorge Railway to Pukerangi.
The trail surface was generally good, with a few rougher stretches similar to gravel road surfaces.
Water supplies along the way can be limited so carry enough for your planned day.
In autumn (later than you will be there) there are occasional wild apple and pear trees alongside the trail which are a good excuse to stop and fill up on fruit!
Photos : http://www.flickr.com/photos/rualexander/2698893537/in/set-72157606366692069/
We did it back in 2002, so things will have changed a bit since then with regard to accommodation and prices. We did it over 5 days, with the first day including the excellent train ride up from Dunedin on the Taieri Gorge Railway to Pukerangi.
The trail surface was generally good, with a few rougher stretches similar to gravel road surfaces.
Water supplies along the way can be limited so carry enough for your planned day.
In autumn (later than you will be there) there are occasional wild apple and pear trees alongside the trail which are a good excuse to stop and fill up on fruit!
Photos : http://www.flickr.com/photos/rualexander/2698893537/in/set-72157606366692069/
Thanks both, we're going to do it t'other way over 4 days: from Clyde to Pukerangi and then pick up the Taieri Gorge Railway into Dunedin. Our first time that far south in NZ... looking forward to it immensely, particularly given the current UK weather!
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