pohutukawatours.comReviews of pohutukawatours.com

New Zealand exemplifies how modern life can harmoniously blend with respect for people, pristine environments, and top-tier quality of life—a source of deep national pride. Its people shine with education, warmth, and courtesy, yielding right-of-way to pedestrians as a cultural norm. This motorcycle adventure across both islands reveals a nation where stunning vistas meet thoughtful infrastructure, though not without a few thrills and unexpected detours.[carbonclick +3] Landscapes and Roads That Inspire Verdant hills, millennial trees, and immaculate historical sites unfold effortlessly along well-maintained roads—sloped outward to shed rainwater and bustling with upgrades everywhere. Single-lane bridges demand alertness, some tucked mid-curve with scant signage, adding edge to the ride. Speed caps at 100 km/h off highways; just two free ones link Wellington and Auckland at 110 km/h, skipping the lone toll route.[travellers-autobarn] Weather, Food, and Global Hiccups Pleasant yet cooler-than-expected temps brought intermittent rain—never more than a few hours, but enough to drench riders heading north into warmer days. Cuisine impressed with hearty breakfasts, dinners, and superior meats like sublime ribeye, cheaper than in Europe. Beers flowed daily amid world tensions, priced at about 15 NZD each. Comfortable Stays Amid the Adventure 4-star motels delivered spacious rooms with kitchens, fridges, and prime spots—many with pools—while west coast return legs dipped to solid 3-star options. Blackball’s simpler lodge fit the itinerary perfectly. Two-Wheeled Tales A BMW 1200 (102,000 km, fresh tires) proved flawless early on. Day eight brought a 2023 Honda Transalp (45,000 km): soft suspension that dove under brakes despite sport mode, a tip-prone side stand snapping the front lever in a spill, no center stand, and non-tubeless tires rendering the 15 NZD puncture kit useless. It idled tractor-like below 5,000 rpm before unleashing 95 hp—light, nimble off-road thanks to the 21-inch front wheel, though steering wobble urged caution. Diverse Companions on the Road Filipino-born Hippo, U.S.-raised from age 15, craves connection yet follows leads, misplacing glasses amid chats. Northern Ireland’s Anglican bishop David stays impeccably tidy, GPS-focused, and caretaking—his thick accent and reticence limited deeper bonds. Oxfordshire retiree Roy, once timid, warmed up despite slow paces, bonding with Hippo over European tales. Steady Hands at the Helm At 70, towering leader Colin—NZ native turned U.S./Canada expat—knows every bend, meticulously cleaning bikes and ferrying with custom straps. Service-driven yet plan-anxious (ferries, dinners), he’s bluntly trustworthy, logging incidents daily and frugally shuttling early to trim costs. North-South divides shone through: Māori heritage thrives more vibrantly up north. This ride, marred only by Iran war flight woes (32-hour Dallas return), cements New Zealand’s allure for mindful

My husband and I both had a wonderful time. Colin is such a nice guy who is very familiar with New Zealand. We will likely return for another one of his tours. Accommodation’s were great. Food was excellent. Organization and communication was quite clear.

Colin was extremely helpful in putting together a custom 13-day, self-guided tour of both islands for us. The included guidebook had details on where to start, things to see including the Glow Worm Caves and Hobbiton, places to eat, and where each day's ride would end. The roads selected included lots of hairpins, sweepers, and amazing view after amazing view. We've moto-toured many countries and New Zealand and Pohutukawa Tours are among the very best.

Colin put together a fantastic tour of the north island of New Zealand. It was a great combination of sweepers, rolling hills, tight twisties, and breathtaking scenery. It was great to have all the hotels, bike rental, and side trips planned by someone who has done it before. Colin was very knowledgeable and made the trip special. Highly recommended!

My husband and I completed a fantastic 8-day self guided tour through parts of Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. The team at Pohutukawa Motorcycle Tours did a great job of setting up this tour and the attention to detail allowed us to relax and enjoy the ride. Forest fires required some significant changes during the tour and Colin rerouted us and arranged alternative accommodation so that we were not impacted or inconvenienced at all. I would highly recommend Pohutukawa Motorcycle Tours to anyone looking for a great experience. Food and accommodation was excellent.