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Avis, one of the world’s leading car rental brands, has partnered with Singapore-based Travel Wander, a local licensed travel agency that specialises in active holidays, including cycling, hiking, running, conservation and culture.

The partnership aims to inspire more people to explore the unique and adventurous bike-drive itineraries offered in New Zealand.

With some of the world’s grandest mountain landscapes, Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail, is one of the best ways to truly soak up the beauty of the country. The bike path network covering 2,500 kilometres of New Zealand’s countryside located in both North and South islands, has over 20 biking routes known as ‘Great Rides’ for bikers of every age and ability. Having access to a rental vehicle will give travellers the freedom to explore the country, and drive from one biking experience to the next whilst seeing the beautiful sights in New Zealand along the way.

Angeline Tang, Regional Director – Leisure Travel & Partnerships, Asia, Avis Budget Group said: “Travel Wander is already a partner with Avis Singapore for New Zealand car rentals in the Free & Independent Travel (FIT) segment and we are thrilled to be working with them again to promote bike-drive itineraries and inspire a new travel trend in the country.

“With trips being self-guided, our partnership with Travel Wander will provide travellers greater convenience and allows them the freedom to get from one ‘Great Ride’ to another in a car of their preference. Driving around the country will give travellers the chance to see some of the beautiful coastal and mountain scenery for which New Zealand is famous.”

Avis has one of New Zealand’s most comprehensive rental fleets, offering a wide range of vehicles from compact economic rental cars to luxurious soft top Cabriolets, 4-wheel drives, SUVs, Eco-Friendly Hybrids, commercial vans and trucks. Last year, two additional hybrid models were introduced to the New Zealand fleet and it was the largest fleet of hybrid rental vehicles available in the country.

“With the launch of the bike-drive itineraries in partnership with Avis, we hope to inspire more people to step out of their comfort-zone and to kick-start their own adventure. By combining both cycling and driving, travellers will be able to discover and experience a different side of New Zealand,” added Sheryl Lim, Founder of Travel Wander.

Avis New Zealand operates in almost 40 locations across the North and South Islands and there are offices conveniently located at popular business and holiday destinations as well as major airports. Bicycle Roof Racks are also available for rental from Auckland Airport and Christchurch Airport for travellers who are bringing their own bicycles for the Great Rides.

Examples of Bike-Drive Itineraries

Hawke’s Bay Trails North Island Ride

Hawke’s Bay Trails boasts 200 kilometres of cycle trails and it was born out of a vision to create a seaside pathway for Napier. Meandering between the twin cities of Napier and Hastings, Hawke’s Bay Trails are generally flat with a river and coastal network of pathways stretching over the Heretaunga Plains.

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail South Island Ride

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail starts from Nelson Airport and stretches across panoramic coastal and mountain views over Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges, with many stops for fine food and relaxation in between.

The Queenstown Trail South Island Ride

As one of the world’s favourite adventure destinations, the Queenstown Trail unveils close to 120 kilometres of spectacular cycling trail in Otago’s Wakatipu Basin.

West Coast Wilderness South Island Ride

In the middle of the Southern Alps on the West Coast lies a series of tracks carved by pioneering goldminers. Today these old tracks, together with extensive water races, logging tramways and historic railway lines, form the West Coast Wilderness Trail.