The Arrowtown to Gibbston Valley Half Day Ride is a relaxed way to experience stunning scenery outside of the main Queenstown CBD. Starting in Arrowtown, you’ll ride scenic riverside trails, cross iconic bridges, and finish at a cellar door of your choice — with no need to backtrack.

What to Expect

Your day begins by meeting our driver in Arrowtown. Look out for one of our branded bus with the large blue bike symbol – check-in with at 9:50 am in summer (September–April) and 10:20 am in winter (May–August).

The return shuttle will pick you up for the morning trip at 1:30 pm  or 4.30pm for the afternoon trip in summer (September–April) and 1.30pm for the morning trip or 4:00 pm for the afternoon trip in winter (May–August).

Our team will set you up with:

• A quality mountain bike or E-bike
• Helmet and winery map
• A full trail briefing

From there, you’ll ride approx. 15 km of well-maintained gravel trail, following the Arrow and Kawarau Rivers. Along the way, cross two scenic swing bridges and the world-famous Kawarau Bungy Bridge before joining the Gibbston River Trail.

Finishing at the Gibbston Valley Winery. Whether you prefer tastings, a vineyard lunch, or simply soaking in the views of vine-covered hills, the choice is yours.

At 1:30 pm, our shuttle collects you from Gibbston Valley Winery and returns you to Arrowtown – no need to ride back.

Key Details

• Distance: ~15 km one way
• Trail Surface: Well-maintained gravel
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for most riders there are some hills and undulations 
• E-bikes: Recommended for extra comfort
• Age Suitability: Children must be at least 140 cm (4 ft 6”) to ride an E-bike
• Includes: Bike or E-bike hire, helmet, map, trail briefing, and return shuttle from Gibbston

Wine Tastings & Bookings

• Tastings and meals are not included in the package price
• Average cost: around $20 per person per winery
• Wineries are independently owned, so pricing and availability vary
• This is a half day ride – its unlikely you’ll get to more than one winery

Why You’ll Love It

• No backtracking — one-way ride with return shuttle
• Easy and scenic trail along rivers and bridges
• Perfect balance of cycling, wine, and alpine scenery

What if the Weather Changes?

The trail passes through exposed alpine terrain, so weather conditions can change quickly. We assess the weather each morning, and if you’re unsure, feel free to call us 45 minutes to 1 hour before the shuttle departs. If the conditions are unsafe for riding, we’ll do our best to reschedule. If that’s not possible, we can offer a refund (minus a 3% transaction fee).

More Terms and Conditions here

Final Tips

• Shuttle Return: 1:30 pm from Gibbston wineries
• Wineries Open: Usually 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Dress in layers and bring sunscreen, water, and a camera
•  Terms and Conditions here