FAQ
The follow FAQs cover a lot of common queries .. contact us with any other questions.
What happens if I get Covid and can’t come?
Covid cancellations – there is no penalty for cancellation of bike rental due to Covid. See our Terms and Conditions for information about tour cancellations.
Are there any Particular Health and Fitness requirements?
Health and Fitness Requirements – anyone who has a reasonable state of fitness and health can do our trips and tours. Trail grades and distance are set out in your bespoke itinerary. If your fitness is not quite as good as you would like, you could consider an ebike to help you keep up, as well as giving you help with climbing hills and in a headwind. Please speak to us if you have any special requirements eg a more or lesser upright riding position.
What do I need to Bring?
We provide a recommended packing list for all multiday tours as part of our predeparture information. For day hires, we suggest comfortable activewear and sport shoes, a light wind/rain jacket (we are a maritime climate and inevitably there are seabreezes), a warm layer(s), sunglasses and sunscreen. Take a bottle of water and perhaps some light snacks. If you are planning to cycle on the road, hi-vis wear is recommended – don’t worry if you don’t have any, we can provide this. If you are cycling through Spooners tunnel a headlamp is necessary, and again we can supply that if you don’t have one.
How far is it and how long will it take to cycle?
Please ask us about distances for the particular trail sector(s) you are cycling. As a general guideline, most people cycle around 15 km per hour on a standard bike and 18 – 20 km per hour on an Ebike. The trail has interpretation boards to read and there will be many photo stops, cafes, breweries, wineries and art studios to visit so make allowance for this when calculating your timings particularly if you are cycling to Mapua as the ferry only operates once per hour.
Can I bring my own bike or bike gear?
Yes, you can bring your own bike (or swap out pedals, seats, panniers etc) but please let us know when you book.
Can I design/specify my own tour or make changes to an existing tour?
Yes we specialise in designing tours specifically to meet people’s individual requirements. We aim to provide you with a tour that suits your available time, budget, fitness level and preferred accommodation type, as well as your interests.
Can I self-guide?
Yes, we will provide you with maps and detailed guide notes when you book your tour through us. The Great Taste Trail is reasonably well signposted and signage is constantly being upgraded. You will need to be prepared to repair punctures and make any minor adjustments.
Punctures and Repairs
In the unlikely event you need to repair a puncture, you will be able to do this with the kit we have supplied (spare tube and patches plus a pump) as well as make any minor adjustments. (you can watch a Utube video before you come, to learn how to repair punctures if you don’t know how)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpq3-DI4OVk
The good news is that our ebikes have a self-sealant in the tubes which is very effective for minor punctures. For any large problems Nelson Cycle Hire is there to help.
How long is half day vs a full day hire
A half day hire is up to 3 hours. A one-day hire is from 4 -8 hours. Please ask us if you have any special requirements around this.
