Initially, I was apprehensive about this trip as it challenged my riding endurance, technical skills and comfort zone. However, I knew there was the back up of a guide and the van. My goal was to keep up as best I could, take copious photos and not fall off the bike. Elder assured me that the bikes were designed for the skiddy gravel I feared and stayed with me at the rear of the pack on the more challenging parts on the big hill looking down on Lake Benmore. He was constantly cheerful and encouraging. Perhaps he is a saint in Real Life? I was advised not to try the 20km part of Rotten Tommy but still enjoyed an amazing helicopter ride. I met up with the group at lunchtime on Braemar Road (after a van ride with Ken, to pick up the salmon for our dinner feast) and completed the rest of the ride successfully. As a group we had a great deal of fun, stayed in comfortable atmospheric accommodation...my favourites were Braemar Lodge and The Brydone, Oamaru. We ate fabulous food. Our guides Elder and Ken are chefs supreme. Gourmet picnics appeared like magic, as we lounged on deck chairs. Cafes and coffee were abundantly provided for. Nothing was too much trouble for our guides. I am now motivated to try more challenging biking trips after this experience.
Absolutely amazing tour with an exceptional guide. He was full of knowledge about all the places we visited, and when weather got in the way of our plans, he came up with alternatives. Made so many new friends and nothing felt rushed but we got to see so much of the country. The places we saw were beautiful, but the people was what made the trip. Amazing first solo travel experience and I'm already keen for more. Cannot thank Guy (our guide) enough for all that he did for us. Had so much fun, and never once felt stressed - just like it should be on holiday!
The Takahe trip is full of wonder, excitement and lasting memories. It boasts spectacular scenery every day, quality accommodation, comfortable travel and carefully balanced activities allowing energy levels to be manageable over five days. The guides are personable, knowledgeable, and great managers of the group dynamics with a mix of abilities and personalities. Full on days hiking with creative planning leads to happy and contented participants who come home to reminisce about the journey and its success. Thank you tour operator.