What level of cycling experience is needed?

Riders should be comfortable on a bike and able to handle some mild uphill sections, but e-bikes make the ride accessible to most fitness levels.

Is gear provided or should I bring my own?

Going Blue supplies high-quality helmets and bikes including e-bikes and pedal bikes; you can bring personal gear for comfort.

How does the one-way shuttle work?

You are transported by shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown at the start, eliminating the need for a return ride.

Are there options for families or beginner riders?

Yes, the ride suits ages 12+, with e-bikes especially recommended for less experienced riders.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Trips may be cancelled in severe weather; Going Blue will notify participants and handle rescheduling or refunds.

Can I stop for food or breaks along the trail?

While Arrowtown offers dining before departure, on-trail stops are limited to short breaks; bring snacks and water.

Ride to Riches: Scenic Arrowtown to Queenstown with Going Blue

Stretching across 48 kilometers of varied terrain, the Ride to Riches journey from historic Arrowtown to vibrant Queenstown is a highlight for anyone keen on blending active travel with a deep dive into New Zealand’s raw landscapes. Offered by Going Blue, a trusted operator based in Queenstown, this ride combines stunning riverside trails, manageable elevation changes, and seamless logistics, crafting an experience that fits both motivated riders and those seeking a memorable day outdoors.

Located in the Otago region on New Zealand’s South Island, this route follows the Twin River Trail, weaving alongside the Shotover and Arrow Rivers. The trail crosses seven bridges and traces three distinct river corridors, showcasing crystal-clear waters that carve through pines and native beech forests. Jagged schist rock formations punctuate the landscape, offering dramatic backdrops against frequent blue sky breaks.

Starting off with a scenic shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown, riders are introduced to the area’s rich history—Arrowtown itself is a preserved gold rush settlement with a laid-back character and cafés perfect for a pre-ride brunch. After a quick bike safety briefing and gear check, participants embark on a mostly downhill course dotted with gentle uphill sections that keep energy levels balanced throughout the roughly four-hour journey.

Going Blue’s combination of modern Trek and Giant E-bikes alongside pedal bikes provides options suited to a range of fitness levels, making this ride accessible while still challenging. The company’s attention to detail—from clear on-trail signage to real-time rider support—cements its reputation as a leader in Otago’s outdoor scene.

Queenstown’s Queenstown Gardens marks the ride’s end, offering secure bike storage and proximity to urban comforts after a day embracing New Zealand’s rugged natural beauty. This adventure is a standout for those who want a hassle-free, well-supported, and unforgettable ride through some of the country’s most iconic riverside wilderness.

About Going Blue

Going Blue is a Queenstown, Otago based transport and adventure operator offering private shuttles, bike hire, self-guided rides, snow play transfers and vineyard tours across Queenstown and Central Otago. The company runs door-to-door private shuttles to Remarkables ski field, small-group Coronet Peak transfers for the Snow Touch Adventure, and one-way shuttles connecting Arrowtown and Queenstown. Self-guided cycling options include the Shotover River Trail, the Ale Trail from Arrowtown to Arthurs Point, the Valley of the Vines ride through Gibbston, and alternative routes that pass the Hugo Tunnel and Kimiākau Suspension Bridge.

Vehicle fleets are equipped for all weather conditions and configured for flexible group sizes, including private transfers for up to 11 passengers. Bike hire covers e-bikes and mountain bikes with recommended trails such as the Kelvin Heights Loop, Arrowtown and Ayrburn Adventure, and the full-day Gold Miner’s Muscle route. The Central Otago Signature Vineyard Tour visits Gibbston wineries, pairs tastings with a gourmet lunch, and highlights local wine history.

Going Blue focuses on convenience, safety and local knowledge to connect visitors from central Queenstown to ski fields, backcountry trails and vineyards. Booking options allow private departures, small-group shuttles and flexible returns. With an emphasis on family-friendly snow play and self-guided cycling, the operator makes mountain, wine and cycling experiences accessible and straightforward for visitors to the Queenstown region. Staff provide clear booking information, flexible pickup windows and on-route support, and vehicles meet local safety standards to ensure reliable transport for families, groups and independent cyclists exploring throughout the region.