Start in Blenheim and take the Taylor Pass Road to the Awatere Valley, and on to the 180,787ha Molesworth Station, cycling 207 km to reach Hanmer Springs.
Alternatively, drive to the historic Molesworth Cobb Cottage to camp overnight, before a 59km ride to the DOC camp at Acheron. It’s another 25km to Hanmer Springs for cold beers and body soothing hot pools.
2-5 days
Note that the 59km through the station must be completed in one day – there is no camping allowed along the Acheron Road within Molesworth Station.
Intermediate to Advanced. Advanced Riders for the full ride from Blenheim, or intermediate from the Cobb Cottage.
From Blenheim, follow SH1 south, then turn right at the Awatere Valley intersection just north of Seddon and the Awatere Valley Bridge. A sign here will indicate whether the Acheron Road through Molesworth is open.
Generally open to public access from Labour weekend to Easter Monday or the second Sunday in April, whichever is the later date, subject to weather condition and fire danger. Check with Department of Conservation for this year’s dates. 03 572 9100
1. Keep left.
2. Cyclists should let pedestrians know when they are approaching by politely calling out or ringing a bell when approaching from behind.
3. Cyclists should pass on the right, when possible – unless the pedestrians are on the right in which case pass them in the safest way possible.
4. Cyclists should ride defensively and cycle at a speed that does not put others at risk.
Camp fees are $6 per night per adult (age 18+), $3 per night per child (age 5-17).