Mountain biking Otago Central Rail Trail New Zealand
SOUTH OF DAISYBANK - DAY 3 POOLBURN VIADUCT - DAY 2 BRIDGE OVER MANUHERIKIA RIVER - DAY 1 ROCKY TORS NEAR ALEXANDRA - DAY 1

2013 / 2014 Tour Dates Now Available

  • New Features
  • Five day cycle and wine tour
  • Customised Tours

What Makes Us Special?

  • Fabulous local drivers
  • One stop accommodation - relax and unpack
  • Personalised service
  • One email does it all

railtrail local drivers
Our Local Drivers - John, John & Sam

railway tunnel near Omakau Central Otago
Poolburn Tunnel - Day 2


Off The Rails Ad - The Tunnel


Off The Rails Ad - Ranfurly Straight


Cycle Tour Operators NZ       Central Otago

You Deserve Some Peace and Quiet!

Take a break from the fast lane and get a breath of fresh air on New Zealand's longest historic cycle trail. Bike 150kms on the South Island's Otago Central Rail Trail, which runs through the timeless landscapes painted by renowned local artist, Grahame Sydney. Experience the charm of Central Otago's rural communities, steeped in goldmining history.

OFF THE RAILS' fully-supported bike tours on the Otago Rail Trail feature our own heritage accommodation, personalised transport, great mountain bikes and guided sightseeing activities, all tailored for your comfort and enjoyment.

"Off the Rails is fabulous....thank you to John Mulholland, for his wonderful natural service, his knowledge of his surroundings and for his beautiful smile at the end of each day." - Susan W, Port Macquarie, NSW

Our standard 4-day / 3-night cycle tour package includes:

  • Pick up and drop off in Queenstown* on either side of your biking adventure.
  • Avanti mountain bike, helmet and waterproof panniers.
  • Transfer to the start of the Otago Rail Trail in Clyde.
  • Comfortable accommodation in OFF THE RAILS' heritage properties in Ranfurly.
  • Personalised transport to and from the Rail Trail each day.
  • Transfer all luggage during your biking adventure.
  • Optional sight-seeing activities.
  • Transport to iconic Central Otago taverns each evening.
  • Rail Trail passport.
  • Continental breakfast & afternoon tea each day.

*There is an option to travel on to Dunedin via the Taieri Gorge Scenic Railway.

book now

Your eco-friendly cycle tour starts in Queenstown, where OFF THE RAILS will pick you up by 8.30am, fit your bike and helmet and bring you to the start of the Otago Rail Trail in Clyde. Over the next few days you will get to experience a landscape most visitors don't see, as no cars or buses are allowed on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

When you've finished cycling for the day, OFF THE RAILS will bring you home to our heritage properties in Ranfurly, art deco heart of the Otago Rail Trail. This makes an ideal base from which to further explore the spectacular Central Otago region, with its many sightseeing opportunities and iconic pubs and restaurants. Our experienced hosts and drivers will help you plan your days in the area.

For rates and details of customised tour options (available for 6 or more people), click here.

We know and love Central Otago and look forward to taking you OFF THE RAILS and sharing this special part of New Zealand with you.

Make an Enquiry

"Just thanking you and your crew for a fantastic OFF THE RAILS bike trip." - Corcoran party, Boorowa, NSW



  Off The Rails (2012) Ltd. P.O. Box 23 Balclutha, Otago 9230. 0800 OFF RAIL. info(at)offtherails.co.nz

Mountain biking Otago Central Rail Trail New Zealand