Family Tours

For those wishing to tour with their children, we have put together an alternative route more suitable to youngsters of 12 and up.

Day One
Transfers from Methven (if required). (Hot air ballooning over the Canterbury Plains available before pickup at extra cost.) Jetboat up the braided Rakaia River before travelling up to Glenfalloch Station. We spend a few moments going over some safety and hot tips that will help you enjoy your ride. We then get on our bikes and cycle for a couple of hours before retiring to the quarters at Glenfalloch.
This day gently eases you into the swing of things, as the track is fairly flat with some gentle up hill climbing - suitable for first time riders.

Day Two
We then make our way along 4WD drive tracks to Lake Heron, following Lake Stream, a great trout fishing river, here we overnight at the luxury cottage at Lake Heron. For those wanting a challenge, there is an uphill track on Mt Sugar Loaf. What goes up must come down, so you can enjoy the downhill thrill too.
The distance is about 23Kms, which takes around 3 hours.

Day Three
From Lake Heron we bike around the base of Mt Sugar Loaf, across the Swin River to Arrowsmith Station. Whilst the adults can take the Helibike option here, the kids can enjoy fishing, swimming and canoeing on the lake.
There is approximately 2 ½ hours biking on this day.

Family Tour includes:

  • Jet-boating the superb Rakaia River
  • Helibiking deep into the rugged Southern Alps
  • Canoes at Lake Heron
  • Mountain bike and helmet hire
  • Superb food and wine
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your tour
  • Snacks
  • 2 or 3 nights accommodation
  • Transfers to and from Methven
  • Liniment for those aches and pains
  • Pure New Zealand water for drinking

Optional extras:

  • Hot air balloon ride over the Canterbury Plains
  • Relaxing massage or therapeutic massage for those with aching muscles
  • Horse riding among the foothills of Mt Somers
  • Golfing on 2 great courses within 30 minutes drive
  • 60m Abseil
  • Fishing in some of the best trout rivers and lakes on the South Island
  • Eco tours of the local area
  • Garden or Farm tours
  • Hiking