TOP DOWN ADVENTURE – NEW ZEALAND
Our 13-day Top Down Adventure offers the opportunity to experience some of the most incredible riding and popular attractions across both islands of New Zealand.
The Adventure begins in Auckland on the North Island and ends in Christchurch on the South Island, offering a wealth of unforgettable experiences in between. You’ll ride along stunning roads, visit the North Island’s wine country and cross the Cook Strait to the South Island where you will enjoy a two-night stop in Nelson and Queenstown. There are numerous captivating stops throughout the South Island before heading to the wonderful city of Christchurch.
In addition to great riding and stunning landscapes, the quality of meals and lodging meets the high standards that are characteristic of all Ayres Adventures tours. Accommodations range from comfortable middle-class hotels to luxury lodgings.
Motorcycling in New Zealand offers an unforgettable blend of stunning natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping rides, superb lodging and dining and friendly locals, making it a bucket-list destination for visiting riders and their passengers.
With extensive local knowledge and years of experience operating tours in New Zealand, Ayres Adventures has refined the Top Down Adventure into the premier choice for riders seeking the best motorcycling experience the country has to offer.
Highlights of this Adventure include:
- A night in the beautiful city of Auckland, fondly known as the ‘City of Sails’
- An evening of cultural experience with the indigenous Māori people
- A ferry crossing of the Cook Strait
- A two-night stay in Nelson and Queenstown on the South Island
- Spectacular riding throughout the tour
At a Glance Your TOP DOWN ADVENTURE
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN AUCKLAND
Upon arrival in Auckland, the tour leaders will meet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the hotel, where you can spend the day relaxing or exploring the city of Auckland.
Later in the afternoon, the tour leaders will hand over the bikes and hold a tour briefing to provide detailed information about the tour. After the briefing, we will enjoy our first dinner together at a wonderful local restaurant.
Riders arriving early can visit SkyCity – home to the iconic 328-meter Sky Tower (the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere), perhaps coupled with a SkyWalk – a walk around the outside ring of the Sky Tower. Our hotel is within walking distance of the Auckland marina – home to the interesting New Zealand Maritime Museum and a variety of wonderful bars, restaurants and cafes.
DAY 2 – AUCKLAND TO ROTORUA ~ 170 MILES
Leaving Auckland, we’ll ride south on the main highway, exiting the city before getting onto smaller, twisty country roads that wind through beautiful farmland and small towns, each with its own unique character.
Rotorua is the geothermal capital of New Zealand. We will arrive in Rotorua with plenty of time to take a leisurely walking tour through one of the active geothermal parks or maybe indulge in a relaxing volcanic mud spa.
In the evening, you’ll attend a Māori cultural event hosted by members of the Māori tribe, who have lived on the site for generations. Dinner will be a meal cooked in a hangi, a traditional earth pit oven.
DAY 3 – ROTORUA TO NAPIER ~ 210 MILES
You’ll continue riding twisty roads until you leave the Coromandel Peninsula. After leaving the peninsula, the roads will include stunning sweepers, but you’re done with the tight switchbacks for a day or two.
In Waihi you may enjoy stopping at the Waihi Gold Mine Lookout. It’s clearly marked from the highway and is only a short distance off the main road.
Rotorua is built on a geothermal area and is New Zealand’s cultural home. When you arrive in Rotorua you should take the opportunity to visit the famous geysers and bubbling mud pools. This evening you’ll attend a Māori cultural evening including a meal cooked in a hangi which is a traditional earth pit oven.
DAY 4 – NAPIER TO WELLINGTON ~ 200 MILES
After departing Napier, we will ride through the Hawke’s Bay region, famous for its wineries, orchards and picturesque landscapes.
Leaving Napier, we will head down the middle of the lower North Island towards Wellington, riding through rolling dairy and sheep farms with the Tararua Range visible in the distance.
The approach into Wellington is very scenic and easy to navigate, following the shoreline of the inner harbor until we reach our hotel, located directly opposite Te Papa – the world-famous, free-access Museum of New Zealand.
DAY 5 – WELLINGTON TO NELSON ~ 90 MILES
Today we will leave the majority of New Zealand’s population on the North Island and board a ferry to cross Cook Strait to the South Island.
The sea journey takes just over three hours and is very scenic, with the last hour or so spent navigating narrow waterways toward Picton at the head of the Marlborough Sounds.
Once on the mainland, a relaxed and scenic two-hour ride featuring some wonderful twisty roads will take us to the beautiful city of Nelson, where we will spend two nights.
Nelson is known for its stunning location, vibrant art scene, world-class wine and amazing riding opportunities.
DAY 6 – FREE DAY IN NELSON
You are free to do as you choose on this free day, but the tour leaders are eager to take any interested riders on a tour of the area and its attractions
You may wish to take a vineyard tour or perhaps visit the region’s famous arts and crafts designers. Or, you may simply relax at a delightful café, restaurant, or bar located within walking distance of the hotel.
DAY 7 – NELSON TO GREYMOUTH ~ 190 MILES
If you think the ride so far has been great, as the song goes, ‘you ain’t seen nothing yet….’
The ride from here on will leave you breathless with the beauty that unfolds around every twist and turn of the road.
The first hour will take us through vineyards, kiwifruit orchards and dairy farms, but gradually these are replaced by native bush, and then forests of ancient native podocarp trees such as Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea .
The ride is on predominately twisty roads over small hill ranges, through deep river gorges and finally along the rugged West Coast shoreline.
Just before reaching our destination of Greymouth, we will stop at the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, where the action of the waves from the Tasman Sea has undermined the uplifted fossilized seabed, creating massive surge pools and spectacular blowholes.
DAY 8 – GREYMOUTH TO FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER ~ 220 MILES
Our journey from now on is a breathtaking ride through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. We will wind along the rugged coastline of the South Island’s West Coast, with views of snow-capped peaks, deep river gorges and dense native bush. The road twists and turns, offering exhilarating stretches for motorcyclists to enjoy.
Along the way, you’ll cross crystal-clear rivers and perhaps catch glimpses of native birds such as Kea, Kereru and Weka.
We spend the night in Franz Josef, where we can visit the world-famous Franz Josef Glacier – one of the few glaciers in the world that traverses a rainforest almost to sea level.
Once you arrive in Franz Josef, you might like to take a scenic helicopter flight to view the glacier up close. Flights land on the glacier for a close-up view. There are numerous flight options available, including both Franz Josef and nearby Fox Glacier.
DAY 9 – FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER TO QUEENSTOWN ~ 210 MILES
Today, we continue our ride through untamed and uninhabited native forest, before turning inland from the coast and crossing Haast Pass – a mountain pass that traverses the Southern Alps through Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It’s a thrilling ride for motorcyclists, featuring tight curves and steep gradients and offering stunning views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and dense beech forests.
Once over the pass, the road follows the shores of Lake Wanaka and then Lake Hawea, with the towering peaks of the aptly named ‘The Remarkables’ – a mountain range that featured in the Lord Of The Rings film series.
Once past these lakes, the road offers views of Mount Aspiring National Park as a magnificent backdrop until we reach Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of the World.
DAY 10 – FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN
If you’re interested in adventure activities, you’ll probably find a wider selection of them in Queenstown than in any other place in the world. Activities range from bungee jumping and steam boat excursions to para-sailing and thrilling jet boat rides, to name just a few.
For those seeking the ultimate motorcycle day ride, there is the option of a full-day return ride to Milford Sound, considered by many Ayres Adventures guests as their “ride of a lifetime”.
A more relaxing option is a ride to nearby Arrowtown, which is less than half an hour from Queenstown and offers a nice selection of restaurants, cafes and small shops.
DAY 11 – QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE TEKAPO ~ 160 MILES
Leaving Queenstown, you’ll enjoy the golden Lindis Pass before arriving in Omarama and continuing to the beautiful, glacial blue waters of Lake Pukaki.
On a clear day, the view of Mount Cook (Aoraki) over Lake Pukaki is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking and iconic landscapes. Mount Cook, also known by its Māori name Aoraki, is New Zealand’s highest mountain, standing at an elevation of 3,724 meters (12,218 feet) above sea level. From Lake Pukaki, the ride offers stunning landscapes and innumerable photo opportunities, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We will spend the night at Lake Tekapo, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning alpine scenery.
DAY 12 – LAKE TEKAPO TO CHRISTCHURCH ~ 160 MILES
Our final destination is Christchurch, the ‘Garden City’, also referred to as New Zealand’s most ‘English’ city. To get there, we travel through the open landscape of McKenzie Country and across the alluvial Canterbury Plains. The scenery transitions from wilderness to pastoral, as the area is intensively farmed for sheep and dairy.
In Christchurch, you’ll be within easy walking distance of great shopping and cafes as well as the fabulous new Christchurch Art Gallery and the famous Arts Centre, originally home to the University of Canterbury. Tonight, we will enjoy a wonderful final dinner together to celebrate our New Zealand Adventure!
DAY 13 – DEPARTURE FROM CHRISTCHURCH
After a relaxing breakfast, the tour leaders will arrange your transfer to the airport for your flight home.
TOTAL MILES: ~ 1,610 MILES
Road Conditions
The route is entirely paved and includes numerous twisty stretches of beautiful roads. This tour is suitable for two-up riding. The majority of this tour is on paved roads.
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Weather
While the tour will take place during optimal weather, riders should be prepared for the possibility of rain along the west coast of the South Island.
Be sure to pack sunscreen, as the UV rating in New Zealand is higher than in most places.
Honda CMX 500 Rebel
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
-$100
Unladen weight (with fuel): 191 kg / 421 lbs
Engine displacement: 471 cc
Power output: 46 hp
Fuel capacity: 11.2 L/2.9 gal
Standard seat height: 690 mm/27.2 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $2,150
Suzuki 650 V-Strom
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
-$250
Unladen weight (with fuel): 213 kg / 470 lbs
Engine displacement: 645 cc
Power output: 67 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 835 mm/32.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $2,150
BMW F750GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$0
Unladen weight (with fuel): 224 kg/493 lbs
Engine displacement: 853 cc
Power output: 77 hp
Fuel capacity: 15 L/4.0 gal
Standard seat height: 815 mm/32.1 inches
Low seat height: 790 mm/31.1 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 770 mm/30.3 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $2,600
Triumph Tiger 800
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$100
Unladen weight (with fuel): 219 kg / 483 lbs
Engine displacement: 799 cc
Power output: 95 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 810-830 mm / 31.9-32.7 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $2,600
BMW F850GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$150
Unladen weight (with fuel): 229 kg/504 lbs
Engine displacement: 853 cc
Power output: 90 hp
Fuel capacity: 15 L/4.0 gal
Standard seat height: 861 mm/33.9 inches
Low seat height: 836 mm/32.9 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 815 mm/32.1 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $2,600
BMW R1200GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$550
Unladen weight (with fuel): 238 kg/525 lbs
Engine displacement: 1170 cc
Power output: 125 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 850 mm/33.5 inches
Low seat height: 820 mm/32.3 inches
Low frame and low seat height: N/A
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,250
BMW R1200RT
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$400
Unladen weight (with fuel): 279 kg/615 lbs
Engine displacement: 1170 cc
Power output: 125 hp
Fuel capacity: 25 L/6.6 gal
Standard seat height: 805 mm/31.6 inches
Low seat height: 760 mm/29.9 inches
Low frame and low seat height: N/A
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,250
BMW R1250RT
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,350
Unladen weight (with fuel): 279 kg/615 lbs
Engine displacement: 1254 cc
Power output: 136 hp
Fuel capacity: 25 L/6.6 gal
Standard seat height: 805 mm/31.6 inches
Low seat height: 760 mm/29.9
Low frame and low seat height: N/A
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,250
BMW R1250GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,100
Unladen weight (with fuel): 249 kg/549 lbs
Engine displacement: 1254 cc
Power output: 136 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 850 mm/33.5 inches
Low seat height: 820 mm/32.3 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,250
BMW R1300GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,300
Unladen weight (with fuel): 237 kg/523 lbs
Engine displacement: 1300 cc
Power output: 145 hp
Fuel capacity: 19 L/5.0 gal
Standard seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,250
Personal Motorcycle
Deduct from rider tour price:
-$1,550
Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like a make or model of motorcycle that is not listed on this page for your tour and we will make every effort to secure the motorcycle of your choice.
Standard Inclusions
- Late model, low mileage motorcycle
- Upscale accommodations
- À la carte dining
- Two Ayres Adventures professional tour leaders
- Airport arrival/departure transfers
- Luggage handling
- Comfortable support vehicle for non-riding companions
- Comprehensive pre-trip planning and assistance
- Customized trip booklet with day-by-day itinerary and attractions
- Commemorative shirt
- Adventurer Club travel award credit
Meals
- All breakfasts
- 10 dinners
- Several lunches
Special Inclusions
- Maori cultural experience
- Ferry across Cook Strait
Deposit per person: $800
2026 Schedule
| Date | 2026 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 7 - 19 | Top Down Adventure | 13 days | $9,800 | $7,400 | $1,150 |
2027 Schedule
| Date | 2027 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 23 - February 4 | Top Down Adventure | 13 days | $10,300 | $7,770 | $1,150 | Waitlist only (Add Name) |
| November 6 - 18 | Top Down Adventure | 13 days | $10,300 | $7,770 | $1,150 |
2028 Schedule
| Date | 2028 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 22 - February 3 | Top Down Adventure | 13 days | $10,900 | $8,200 | $1,250 | |
| November 4 - 16 | Top Down Adventure | 13 days | $10,900 | $8,200 | $1,250 |
Cancellation fee and refunds
| FROM DATE OF SCHEDULED COMMENCEMENT | AMOUNT FORFEITED |
|---|---|
| More than 60 days | 50% of deposit |
| 60 days or fewer but more than 45 days | 100% of deposit |
| 45 days or fewer but more than 30 days | 50% of full tour payment |
| 30 days or fewer | 100% of full tour payment |
My 8th Motorcycle Tour with Ayres Adventures
This was my 8th motorcycle tour with Ayres Adventures. Second to New Zealand. The trips are well planned, well organized and well led. The accommodations, routes, food, motorcycle selection, and tour leadership have been excellent on each and every trip. I would not hesitate to recommend one of their adventures to anyone looking for a great trip and adventure.
Lee's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Patagonia and Ushuaia Adventure
Viking Run
Scotland - Castles, Kilts and Whisky
Iceland Adventure
Bohemian Rhapsody
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Isles of Palms, SC
The Machu Picchu tour was great
The Machu Picchu tour was great. I enjoyed the roads and sights offered. It was the right amount of riding and touring. I waited to go on this trip many years as I was saving up my vacation time.
Micah's Adventures include:
Machu Picchu Adventure
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Winchester, VA
Everything is Top Notch
Ayres Adventures refers to its genre of travel as "premium" motorcycle touring. Think of a luxury cruise line except that you ride a motorcycle form port to port instead of a ship. Everything is top notch; rooms, meals, assistance, preparations ... all of it. Great ride. Great People. Great hosts and tour operations by Ayres Adventures.
David's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Iceland Adventure
Alaska/Yukon Adventure
Sylvania, OH
A Journey Through the Land of the Long White Cloud
Touring New Zealand with Ayres Adventures; renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage, presents an unparalleled opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to experience the ride of a lifetime. Taking to the paved back roads on two wheels allows riders to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty and exhilarating routes that this island nation has to offer. From the verdant hills of the North Island to the rugged, dramatic scenery of the South Island, a motorcycle tour of New Zealand promises adventure, freedom, and unforgettable memories.
Ayres offers a worry-free ride, excellent accommodations, well-prepared motorcycles, and unforgettable scenery. The guides are extremely knowledgeable, locally experienced, and professional. You won't be disappointed.
A motorcycle tour of New Zealand is more than just a ride; it’s an odyssey through some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet. The freedom of the open road, coupled with the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people, creates a journey that is as enriching as it is exhilarating. Whether you’re carving through mountain passes, cruising along coastal highways, or exploring charming towns and cities, New Zealand offers an endless array of experiences that will leave a lasting impression on every rider. So, gear up, make your reservations with Ayres Adventures well in advance then hit the road, and discover the magic of New Zealand on two wheels.
Bill's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Iceland Adventure
Woodland Park, Colorado
If you are thinking about riding the tour… Do It! You will not be disappointed
New Zealand was my first motorcycle tour with any tour group. The ride itself was phenomenal! The guides Chris and Janis were awesome. New Zealand roads were made for motorcycles. The scenery, amazing! If you are thinking about riding the tour... Do It! You will not be disappointed.
Dale's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Mobile, AL
Ayres is truly a premium tour company that handles all the details
Our second tour with Ayres Adventures to Norway was just as fantastic as our first one to New Zealand. The guides were excellent in knowledge of the area and the roads and stops to make. The scenery was awesome beyond words to describe. The best way to see a country is on a motorcycle and a support van to carry your luggage. Ayres is truly a premium tour company that handles all the details so the riders can enjoy the tour. The nightly accommodations were first class and outstanding. I'm looking forward to my next tour with Ayres.
Robin's Adventures include:
Norwegian Midnight Sun
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Plymouth, MN
We had a great time and would recommend this tour highly
Our Norway adventure was great. The scenery was fantastic, the food tasted great, the route was well organized, and the tour leaders were professional and knowledgeable. Everyone we met in Norway was friendly. We had a great time and would recommend this tour highly.
Robert's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Norwegian Midnight Sun
Plymouth, MN
The best way I can think of to see 15 different countries
This tour is the best way I can think of to see 15 different countries in one tour which means 15 different cultures, different geographies, different customs, and best of all 15 different nationalities of people.
While the rest of the group was touring Dracula’s Castle, I went out for a ride by myself up in the mountains. An old sheepherder (pictured) waved at me as I rode by and I turned around and went back to say hi. We had about a half hour conversation with neither of us speaking the others language but with pantomiming he was able to tell me his story. He pointed out the house he grew up in and still lived in. Ninety-three years old and still riding a motorcycle. I figured out that he had a 10-year-old Ducati Monster 600 bike, and rode it out to the pasture where the sheep were.
He relished looking over my bike and indicated BMWs were great bikes. This type of encounter is one of the main reasons I like to go on Ayres motorcycle tours. The freedom to explore on your own and not always have to be with the group sets your company apart from most of the others. There isn't the pressure to stay with the group and I never would have gotten a chance to meet this fella if I wasn't by myself. You don't get this interaction with the locals driving a car.
John's Adventures include:
Munich to Istanbul Adventure
Roof of Africa
Southern Cross
Taste of Chile (and Dash of Argentina)
Portugal, Spain, Morocco
SA Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
New Zealand Grand Tour
Rendezvous in Rio
Lebanon, OR
Well done, Ayres Adventures!
Once again Ayres Adventures came up trumps for our Father / Daughter private tour in South America. The booking and arrangements were made with the minimum of fuss. Jason Kilian and Chris Gladstone are two of the most friendly and professional tour leaders anyone could wish to travel with. Well done, Ayres Adventures!
Richard and Paula's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Switchback Challenge The Alps
Private Bariloche to Ushuaia tour
Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
They always go above and beyond to take care of the client
I have participated in numerous tours with Ayres Adventures as well as other tour companies and can comfortably report that Ayres is the Premier touring company. They always go above and beyond to take care of the client.
Rob and Christine's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Australia and Tasmania – Adventure Down Under
Dutch Treat Adventure
Spain and Morocco
Viking Run
Escape to Machu Picchu
Southern Cross
Best of Alaska/Canada
Jacksonville, FL
This is the way I want to experience this type of trips going forward!
Now that I am finally back home I wanted to send some words with my impressions after this adventure in your wonderful country.
This was my ninth motorcycle tour of this type and I can say without hesitation that what I have experienced this time has nothing to do with my previous tours. I had very high expectations of the tour based on the multiple things I read and videos I watched in preparation of this adventure. All of them have been highly exceeded.
Of course the many wonders of New Zealand, as well as the quality of the accommodations and restaurants chosen, had a lot to do with that, but what really made the difference was the level of enthusiasm and professionalism that you and Jason showed every single day of the tour, taking care of every detail, anticipating any potential issue, ensuring that everyone was safely enjoying those superb riding opportunities that this country offers, and making sure that each of the participants was getting the most out of each day.
If this is the way in which Ayres delivers the adventures offered in its catalogue then I am afraid that you will be hearing a lot more about me, because this is the way I want to experience this type of trips going forward.
All my gratitude for this unforgettable adventure and all the strength for the times to come.
Fuerte abrazo (Big Hug)
Raul
Raul's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Madrid, Spain
Thank you for a trip of a lifetime that exceeded my highest expectations!
The tour leaders were way more than I ever anticipated. They are thorough, knowledgeable about motorcycling and the area and they both have really good people skills. I saw them accommodate every person on the tour in a unique way for each person and they made it look easy ...which I know is not the case.
Bravo to these two guys and to you for hiring and training them. They are what made this tour so exceptional.
The ride scenery in New Zealand was unbelievable and fantastic and the dinners were first class.
Thank you, thank you for a trip of a lifetime that exceeded my highest expectations.
Mark's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Vista, CA
Can't wait to return!
Just returned from New Zealand and the Top Down Tour and can't wait to return. Chris and Janis could not have made a better set of guides.
David's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Los Angeles, CA
We cannot think of a better way to see the world!
Travelling with Ayres Adventures was stellar. It was a great opportunity to tour another country with absolutely no worries. Each day we were briefed as to what the day ahead would look like and off we went. The guides, Chris and Axel, were knowledgeable, organized and a pleasure to be with. We made many stops to look at beautiful sites or to take a break. It gave us an opportunity to meet new friends and share the love of motorcycle touring. We cannot think of a better way to see the world and would definitely travel with Ayres again.
Wendel and Janet's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Brooks, Canada
This was a really adventurous trip, going to places where few others go!
This was a really adventurous trip, going to places where few others go. The riding is challenging and makes the land soak into your entire body. The vast spaces are a relief from our crowded lives and free up the imagination like no other place. It takes a long time afterwards to process all the experiences and tell the stories, truly a "once in a lifetime”!
Cordelia's Adventures include:
Mongolia and Eastern Siberian Adventure
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Albuquerque, NM
After this fantastic tour, I am afraid I can never do a "normal" vacation again!
Even though I had high expectations, I was not prepared for how heart achingly beautiful New Zealand is. Every day on the tour another stunning ride unfolded, each completely unique and full of surprises. The accommodations were equally unique and in prime spots, with nice meals in a variety of restaurants. Both tour leaders had a deep knowledge about the places we visited and taught us a lot. After this fantastic tour, I am afraid I can never do a "normal" vacation again!
Cordelia's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Mongolia and Eastern Siberian Adventure
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Once you travel with Ayres Adventures there is no going back!
First class all the way! Awesome roads and amazing lodging. Staff brings the group together and makes everyone feel welcome and at ease. Gives us plenty of time on the bikes and off the bikes to enjoy our new friends. Does a great job dealing with the unexpected and last minute changes which are bound to happen with any event. Why go with any other group - once you travel with Ayres Adventures there is no going back - they are top notch. This is my 4th trip and saving my money for the next one.
John and Heidi's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Ushuaia and Antarctica
Africa Call of the Wild
Iron Butt Viking Run
More awesome than we could ever have imagined!
Hi Ron,
I just wanted to touch base with you about our recent trip to New Zealand with Ayres Adventures. It was a trip of a lifetime that was more awesome than we could ever have imagined.
Chris and Bryn did an outstanding job in leading us and showing us their country the New Zealand way. The bikes ran great, the weather was excellent, the scenery outstanding, the roads were awesome with lots of curves, the food was amazing and our tour group of people all got along as good friends.
I could go on and on, but words cannot express the fun we had on this tour. Everything was top notch! A truly amazing journey!
Bob and Robin's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
(Auckland to Christchurch)
Plymouth, Minnesota
The most wonderful vacation we've ever had!
Before we left for New Zealand, we told ourselves it would be the trip of a lifetime...it was all that and ten times more. Every aspect of the entire experience far exceeded our wildest expectations.
The accommodations and the meals were fabulous, the rides amazing, and the people were the absolute best. It was without a doubt the most wonderful vacation we've ever had.
We will return to New Zealand some day, and we will ride with Ayres again--somewhere in the world.
John and Jane's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Oberlin, Ohio
You won't be disappointed!
"I've taken two Ayres Adventures motorcycle tours, two years apart, on two continents - they were both topnotch! I don't normally treat myself to the finest things, but Ayres Adventures did treat us to the finest things, and they did it humbly, with knowing smiles on their faces. They knew the next site, the next route, or the next hotel, was going to knock our socks off. And, sure enough, it did!
I encourage anyone considering an overseas motorcycle trip to choose Ayres Adventures as your host. You won't be disappointed"
Steve's Adventures include:
Rendezvous in Rio
New Zealand Grand Tour
Chicago, Illinois
If you want to go to Machu Picchu or Ushuaia, Ayres is your man.
If you 're considering a motorcycle trip to Brazil or anywhere else in South America, I'd certainly recommend Ayres Adventures to be your tour company. Ron is an experienced motorcyclist with a gift for taking care of the details. He genuinely wants you to have a good experience.
If you want to go to Machu Picchu or Ushuaia, Ayres is your man.
David's Adventures include:
Best of Brazil
African Southern Cross
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Port Angeles, Washington
My husband loves motorcycle touring and now I must admit I have grown to love it too!
The camaraderie of our tour group, good natured people, well cared for roads, twistie turns and gorgeous scenery enhanced by beautiful silver ferns, crystal blue lakes, and of course lots of sheep!
These all describe the memories I will cherish when I think about New Zealand. My husband loves motorcycle touring and now I must admit I have grown to love it too! ...Susan"
Bob and Sue's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Call of the Wild
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Machu Picchu Excursion
Norwegian Midnight Sun
Lake Villa, Illinois
We’re already signed up for the Alps and Morocco
I’ve ridden eight Ayres Adventures tours, three of them IBA (Iron Butt Association) specific rides and haven’t been disappointed. All have been first class, unique, and full of very pleasant surprises. Ron and his staff have always been courteous, helpful, and patient. In fact, he has found some special tour leaders and guides. By the end of the tour, they become friends that we look forward to seeing again.
Each tour had it’s own highlights. The IBA tours fit our style of riding since we are interested in seeing as much as we can and not spending a lot of time at the destination hotels. If you ride one, be prepared to cover some distance in all kinds of road and weather conditions.
Ushuaia had been one of those must see places for us and the South America IBA ride was the perfect way to do it, we ended up with more than we expected. The scenery was spectacular, the food was excellent, and this group of riders made it a ride to remember.
We enjoyed this one so much, we’re already signed up for the Alps IBA ride this September and the Portugal, Spain, and Morocco tour next year.
Tom and Mona's Adventures include:
IBA Ushuaia Tour
IBA Africa Tour
IBA Extreme Alps Tour
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Spain and Morocco
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Namibian Splendors (Africa)
Russia - Beyond the Golden Ring
Munich to Istanbul
Japan Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji
The Epic Journey - Moscow to Hong Kong
Vista, California
You win the oscar!
You win the Oscar for the category of "The Company that Works the Hardest to Please a Client!"
George and Sherri's Adventures include:
Southern Cross
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Once again, we came away thrilled...
"The Antarctica trip was our fifth tour (or 6th if you count Hyder) with Ayres Adventures and once again we came away thrilled with the experience.
The Antarctica portion was a life changing event, much the same as our three trips in Africa with Ayres forever changed our view of the world. Having now toured on all 7 continents, we can say that while the trip to Antarctica is costly and can be difficult at times, it is worth every cent if you enjoy adventure travel to new places. It will change your perspective of our planet and all it entails in a way that is impossible to explain unless you have made the voyage!
Mike and Cara's Adventures include:
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Call of the Wild (Africa)
Southern Cross (Africa)
Namibian Splendors (Africa)
Into Africa
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Greece and Italy - Golden Odyssey
Machu Picchu Excursion
Portugal and Spain Adventure
Portugal, Spain and Morocco Adventure
Southern Pines, North Carolina
Consider your company whole-heartedly endorsed!
"When the memories of a trip stay with me every night while trying to sleep, I know that I have experienced something very memorable. I had such a good time that I signed up for your next 'Rendezvous in Rio' Adventure".
Consider your company whole-heartedly endorsed!
John's Adventures include:
Taste of Chile (and Dash of Argentina)
South American Splendors
Rendezvous in Rio
New Zealand Grand Tour
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Africa Off-Road
Southern Cross (Africa)
Portugal, Spain and Morocco
Lebanon, Oregon
Trip of a Lifetime
When we signed up for our Alaskan Splendors adventure, David and I thought we would have a good time, see some wonderful things, and meet interesting people. We never expected that a short trip to Alaska would prove to be the trip of a lifetime, led by guides who not only set the bar, but exceeded it, for professionalism, technical expertise, patience and pure fun!
John Jesson had us all laughing together from the first day, and working together as a team by the second. Traveling with him was a pleasure from start to finish, and you may be sure that we’ll look for him on future Ayres Adventures.
David and Ruth's Adventures include:
Alaskan Splendors
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Call of the Wild (Africa)
Stockton Springs, Maine
Bikers Delight
Biker's delight. These are the words that come to my mind when I think of my Ayres Adventures tours. Great rides, sensational places, good food and great fun. A big "Thank you!" to the whole Ayres team for creating such an experience, you're doing an awesome job. I am looking forward to riding with you again.
Michael's Adventures include:
Machu Picchu Excursion
Southern Cross
Namibian Splendors
Spain and Morocco
Norwegian Midnight Sun
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Cologne, Germany
We can't wait for the next one!
It’s been less than two weeks since we completed the African trilogy and I’ve wondered how I’d ever find the words to describe our feelings about this extraordinary adventure. When the October 2008 Waypoints Bulletin arrived, it gave me the perfect start. As one who had to “overcome initial apprehension about travel to the ‘Dark Continent’,” I can honestly say that none of my fears materialized. Nick and I fell in love with Africa. From day one and throughout nearly seven weeks of travel, Africa grabbed us with the warmth of the people, the cultural diversity, the mind-blowing wildlife, and the spectacular scenery. Ayres Adventures delivered in its usual superb fashion on each and every day of the three distinctly unique tours.
The “Southern Cross” could be described as “Africa 101”, offering a taste of everything—from the busy, upscale Capetown waterfront to the luxury of L’Agulhas Country Lodge, from the cultural experiences in Eshowe and Shakaland to the overall African immersion at Otter’s Den. Leaving Johannesburg at the start of the second tour, we mistakenly thought ourselves steeped in a sense of place. Then came Shibula Lodge and we realized that a very different African adventure was just beginning. The “Call of the Wild” is truly all about the wildlife—watching the elephants crossing the river in Chobe can only be termed a life-altering event. As for Namibia, we’ll never forget the sands—towering over us on the dunes and shifting under our tires as we crossed the Kalahari! But the challenge was thrilling and the landscapes incomparable.
We’ll always be grateful to the Ayres “family” with whom we shared this amazing experience. So while "doing 'Africa Ayres Adventures Style'" may be addictive, I think it’s more accurate to say that we’ve simply become addicted to Ayres Adventures. We can’t wait for the next one!
Nick and Susan's Adventures include:
New Zealand Grand Tour
Southern Cross - TWICE!
Call of the Wild - TWICE!
Namibian Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
South American Splendors
Best of the Mediterranean
Susan wrote an article about her African trips which was published in BMW Owners News. Click here to read her article.
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey
START CITY: Auckland
- Nearest international airport: Auckland Airport
- Airport code: AKL
- Approximate distance from city centre: 13 miles/21 kms
END CITY: Christchurch
- Nearest international airport: Christchurch International Airport
- Airport code: CHC
- Approximate distance from city centre: 8 miles/12 kms
Private Tour Inquiry
We are happy to book any of our motorcycle tours as a private tour. For most tours, we require a minimum of 8 bikes or 12 participants (riders plus co-riders). We can provide a private motorcycle tour for smaller groups, but a surcharge may apply. We can also customize any of our regular tours for a private group.