New Zealand Pampers Cyclists

New Zealand-bound travelers who want to tour by bike but don’t want the hassle of taking their own equipment or joining a tour group, can get help with route information, baggage transportation and equipment rentals from a new company called Wild Cycles.

The company’s comprehensive publication, the “Where to Ride Guide,” was researched by students and travelers who sought routes ranging from six to 90 days.

The publication includes details about the terrain, estimates times between points en route , indicates possible picnic spots, and fills you in on stores and scenic attractions on the way. It also includes a list of hostels or campgrounds in each town.

Bike rentals include a 21-speed mountain bike (not more than 12 months old), pannier bags, cycle helmet, drink bottle, lock, a day pack, a maintenance guide, luggage delivery service, plus the “Where to Ride Guide,” a “Most Excellent Adventure Guide” and maps.

Wild Cycles has arranged a luggage-delivery network using the budget transportation service Kiwi Experience. The bulk of your belongings are delivered to a pre-arranged point along your route.

The bike-rental package costs $75 for one week; $144 for two weeks; $207 for three or four weeks, $276 for five or six weeks. For more than six weeks, $6 per day. A $180 deposit is required.

Wild Cycles also offers an accommodations kit, which includes: a two-person tent, two cups, knives, forks and spoons; one gas cooker, one pot, one pan, two sleeping mats, two sleeping bags, one lantern, two bowls and a discount card for campgrounds.

These kits cost $34 for one week; $59, two weeks; $89, three weeks; and $119, four, five or six weeks. More than six weeks, $3 a day.

Wild Cycles can be contacted at P.O. Box 1533, Auckland, New Zealand; 011-649-366-1665.