Cycling across New Zealand is an adventure of a lifetime. Join friends Nina Mariana Pascha and Gina Bourne as they recount their two-month journey filled with challenges and unforgettable moments! They had no prior cycling experience before embarking on this trip, yet they embraced every moment. (Spoiler: Dance breaks were a must!)
Names: Gina Bourne & Nina Mariana Pascha
Age: 27 years old (both)
Hometown: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Country count: Gina – 29 & Nina – 28
Instagram: @spinning_noodle_sisters
1. What ignited your passion for travel?
We both grew up in families that loved to travel, which naturally sparked our curiosity to explore as adults. During our university years, we traveled extensively, volunteering or studying abroad in Asia and the U.S. After graduation, we ventured into the workforce—Gina embraced a nomadic lifestyle in outdoor education, while Nina focused on corporate life in Amsterdam. Eventually, we fulfilled our dream of visiting New Zealand through a Working Holiday Visa.
2. What inspired you to cycle across New Zealand?
Since our teenage years, we envisioned traveling New Zealand together. It took a decade to finally realize that dream. Gina's dad suggested cycle touring, a passion he pursued in the '70s while exploring the North and South Islands. After researching, we decided it was a challenge we wanted to tackle. We ended up experiencing New Zealand in a way we never imagined!
3. Tell us about your journey! (Route, planning, and cycling experience)
The Route: Our two-month cycling adventure covered 2,000 km through the South Island, starting in Nelson and Motueka, making our way down the west coast and ending in Oamaru on the eastern coast. We primarily followed the Tour Aotearoa cycling route down to Lake Mavora, passing through stunning locations like Nelson Lakes National Park, Murchison, and Queenstown. We also explored many of New Zealand's official cycle trails, including the Tasman's Great Taste Trail and Around the Mountain Trail, eventually veering off the Tour Aotearoa route to Te Anau and Mount Cook, where we tackled the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail to Oamaru.
Planning & Experience: We had zero experience with cycle touring before this trip. We didn't even know how to change a tire! We bought our bikes and gear in New Zealand, approaching the journey with determination and a day-by-day mindset. Initially, we had a rough route planned, but as we cycled south, our confidence grew, learning valuable tips from fellow cyclists on route planning and cycling efficiently.
4. What were some unforgettable moments during the trip?
Cycling through South Island's breathtaking landscapes was incredibly rewarding, though it wasn't without its challenges. The Haast Pass was particularly tough; we cycled 70 kilometers through glacier river valleys, tackling a steep 1,200-meter ascent. To lighten the mood, we took dance breaks and indulged in chocolate while watching vehicles struggle on the winding roads. Upon reaching the summit, we celebrated with a refreshing dip in a glacial swimming hole!
Another highlight was gliding down the Crown Range's switchbacks toward Queenstown after a challenging climb up Cardrona Mountain pass. We were so high up that planes landing in Queenstown were below us!
5. What were your favorite places in New Zealand? Any hidden gems?
New Zealand offers stunning scenery, making it hard to choose favorites. Murchison stood out as a highlight where we met wonderful fellow cyclists and enjoyed swimming in the Buller River. We also loved taking a steamboat across Lake Wakatipu to cycle towards Lake Mavora, where we envisioned Legolas from Lord of the Rings galloping toward us.
A fantastic off-the-beaten-path experience was the West Coast Wilderness Trail, where we cycled through fern forests and alongside glacier rivers. Must-see spots include the crystal-clear waters of Lake Pukaki and the free camping spots along its shores.
6. What was your biggest struggle during this adventure and how did you manage it?
Our greatest challenge was developing mental and physical resilience. There were moments of exhaustion and frustration, but over time, we grew stronger and fitter. We supported each other through tough times with encouragement, dance breaks, and teamwork, taking rest days to recharge with hearty meals and cookies.
7. What was the cost of your trip? Any budget-friendly tips?
Budget Tips: We believe cycle touring is one of the most affordable and sustainable travel methods. By camping and living simply, you can stretch your budget far. We camped primarily at free sites, DOC campgrounds, and Warmshowers. We kept our food simple and nutritious, indulging in the occasional burger stop. With no fuel costs, our meals became our energy source.
Budget Breakdown: We arrived in New Zealand with enough savings to cover bikes, gear, and living expenses for two months. Most nights, we camped at DOC sites for a small fee of 5-8 NZD per person. Occasionally, we splurged on hostels for cooking facilities and hot showers, costing around 20-30 NZD depending on the area. Over our two-month journey, we spent between 3,000-4,000 NZD (approximately 2,000-2,500 USD), which included purchasing our bikes and equipment. Our biggest expense was the bikes, with Nina's setup costing around 1,000 NZD and Gina's at 700 NZD. We sold our bikes post-trip, recouping some of that investment. If you already have gear, your primary expense will likely be food, as we enjoyed exploring New Zealand's culinary offerings along the way.
8. What lesson did this trip teach you about yourselves or the world?
This journey taught us that discomfort is part of growth. Embracing challenges pushes your limits and helps you experience life more fully. You don't have to be the fittest or an expert cyclist to tackle difficult routes; you just need the willingness to try and learn along the way.
9. What are the top three essentials you packed for the trip?
A compact camping stove, high-visibility utility vest, and a 3-liter Platypus water bladder.
10. What's next on your adventure list?
With the cycle touring bug now firmly established, our next adventure is exploring Southeast Asia in 2022. We plan to start in Indonesia, moving through Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, eventually returning to Chiang Mai, Thailand. Despite growing up in Thailand, we've yet to explore our neighboring countries, and this trip will allow us to experience Asia like never before. We can't wait to indulge in countless bowls of noodles!
