12ODR cycle tour

By Andrew Willmott | Posted: Sunday March 16, 2025

The two Year 12 Outdoor Education classes recently embarked on an unforgettable journey through the stunning MacKenzie District, riding sections of the iconic Alps to Ocean trail.

Divided into groups, the boys took turns leading each day's ride, demonstrating leadership and teamwork in real-world conditions. While they enjoyed far better weather than Dunedin, Day Two brought some showers—fortunately offset by a well-earned soak in the Tekapo Hot Springs.

But the adventure wasn’t just about biking. The students also completed the Hooker Valley walk, taking in breathtaking views on a picture-perfect day. It was a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of the Southern Alps and experience one of New Zealand’s most scenic hikes.

Throughout the trip, the students showed great control and efficiency both on and off the bike, despite a few spills along the way. They gained valuable insights into cycle touring while witnessing firsthand the vast number of people riding New Zealand’s trails and contributing to these smaller communities. Each day ended with a debrief, allowing them to reflect on their performance and prepare for future challenges.

The final day saw the group ride from Aviemore Dam to Kurow—home to one of Otago Boys’ finest products, Richie McCaw. Now, with their bike fitness and technical skills developing, the boys will take their experience to more demanding trails back in Dunedin, ready for their next riding adventure.

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