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Join Team Cherish for an exhilarating multi-sport South Island adventure and help find kinder treatments and improved outcomes for women with gynaecological cancer.

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22-27 October 2024

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$3,955

Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments

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4/5

Challenge Grade

Give Back to the Community

$3,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

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Each year in Australia, more than 6,700 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancer. Almost a third of these women will not survive their disease. 

We urgently need to improve the odds of surviving gynaecological cancer, and the most effective way is through research.

Our teams of researchers are ready. They are only limited by the funds available.

Give it your all to trek, cycle and raft to raise funds on the Epic Coast to Coast Cherish Challenge

that will enable life-changing medical research to optimise gynaecological cancer early detection, diagnosis, treatment, survival rates, and quality of life. 

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How it works

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FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments.
Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).
For more details, see our FAQs.
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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Teamwork

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1, Tuesday 22nd October 2024: Christchurch - Ross to Hokitika

Day 1, Tuesday 22nd October 2024: Christchurch - Cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail - Ross to Hokitika

Today our adventure finally begins! It’s an early start. Meet your fellow teammates and guides in Central Christchurch at 8am. We then transfer to the west coast, driving over the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass with its towering snow-capped peaks. On arrival, we check that the bikes are the right fit and take them for a spin on the West Coast Wilderness Trail, following the path of long-gone railways, logging trams, and water races from the mining days. Setting off from the gold town of Ross, we pass through native rain forests and wet lands of Lake Mahinapua to reach Hokitika in the late afternoon. We have some free time to explore this loveable little town, known for its arts and crafts, greenstone and a dramatic beach with wonderful sunsets. Tonight, we gather to enjoy a welcome dinner together, which will set us up for our epic adventure ahead!

Challenge: 33km cycle

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: L D

Day 2, Wednesday 23rd October 2024: Cycle from Cameron’s Beach to Jacksons - Bealey Hotel

Day 2, Wednesday 23rd October 2024: Cycle from Cameron’s Beach to Jacksons - Bealey Hotel

Today is our first challenge day! We commence from Cameron’s Beach on the West Coast. We start with a short walk off the beach to the road where we hop onto our bikes. Today’s cycle takes us along the historic Kumara Bush Tram through regenerating bush and an impressive swing bridge offers views of the river below. After cycling through the old mining town of Kumara we follow a quiet road through native bush to the settlement of Mitchells, nestled on the side of Lake Brunner. Our route takes us alongside the lake, before we continue through farmland surrounded by high mountain peaks. It’s a challenging ride, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and camaraderie amongst the team to keep you going. Our ride ends at the Stanley Gooseman Bridge where our trail crosses the Taramakau River. As we wind down and the first challenge day is completed, we are transferred to our accommodation at the Bealey Hotel where we stay for the next two nights. Situated in majestic alpine splendour, we have dinner overlooking the vast Waimakariri River.

Challenge: 50km cycle

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Thursday 24th October 2024: Hike the Alpine Crossing - Bealey Hotel

Day 3, Thursday 24th October 2024: Hike the Alpine Crossing - Bealey Hotel

Today is our big trekking day! We start at Arthur’s Pass, climb up to the Temple Basin ski field and down to Bealey Chasm, exploring the gorgeous countryside as we go. This alpine crossing of the Southern Alps reaches an elevation of 1400 metres, making it a spicy trek for the legs! We emerge on the east side of ‘The Divide’ at Arthur’s Pass Village. In the afternoon, we tackle the Bealey Spur Hike. This walk climbs up a ridge overlooking the vast braided Waimakarari River and Southern Alps and reaches the historic Bealey Spur Hut after 6km and 600m of ascent. We descent the same way down. After returning to the Bealey Hotel, we enjoy the evening together, putting up our legs after a long day of trekking and strengthening ourselves with another healthy meal.

Challenge: 24km trek

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Friday 25th October 2024: Raft the Waimakariri River - Springfield

Day 4, Friday 25th October 2024: Raft the Waimakariri River - Springfield

This is where things really heat up, as we take on the mighty Waimakariri River on a stunning 40km journey through the Waimakariri Gorge to the Waimakariri Road Bridge. This part of the challenge is always a favourite, and makes the multisport challenge all the more fun! After breakfast, we transfer to Gooseberry Flats and start our scenic raft journey through the Gorge, taking on the fun Hamilton Rapids and weaving through the Horseshoe Bends. At the river out-take, we meet our guides and are transferred to our accommodation in Springfield where we have plenty of time to freshen up before everyone gathers for dinner.

Challenge: 40km raft

Accommodation: 3-star motel

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Saturday 26th October 2024: Cycle from Waimakariri River to New Brighton Beach - Christchurch

Day 5, Saturday 26th October 2024: Cycle from Waimakariri River to New Brighton Beach - Christchurch

Our final day is here - the last push to reach the end of the Coast to Coast challenge! We have already achieved a mean feat, and all that’s left now is a 70-kilometre cycle between ourselves and our final destination. The last day of our Coast to Coast adventure takes us from the Waimakariri River all the way to the sea in Christchurch on the East Coast. We ride through farmland and rural scenery across the Canterbury Plains, trending downhill (yippee!) to New Brighton Beach by the early afternoon where the pier marks the end of our incredible journey. We celebrate with a relaxing dip in the He Puna Taimoana hot pools and a refreshing drink. After an epic adventure and some serious exercise we’ll be full of endorphins and feeling very proud of ourselves! Tonight, we will enjoy our final celebration dinner together.

Challenge: 70km cycle

Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 6, Sunday 27th October 2024: Depart Christchurch

Day 6, Sunday 27th October 2024: Depart Christchurch

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to our fellow team members and new friends. Check-out is at 10am. Please make your own onward travel arrangements.

Meals: B 

Includes: Transfers and meals as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and motels based on twin-share • Private support vehicle(s) •  Local guides •  Waimakariri River Rafting •  Bike hire and helmet • Healthy snacks and water on challenge days • He Puna Taimoana hot pools in New Brighton •  Department of Conservation Concession Fees

Excludes: International Flights • Airport Transfers • Pre and post tour accommodation in Christchurch • Travel insurance (compulsory for non-NZ citizens, highly recommended for NZ residents) • Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Tips and gratuities (optional)

Cycling New Zealand Coast to Coast

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Experience the unique beauty of New Zealand's South Island through this unforgettable multi-sport challenge.
  • Trek over the Southern Alps across the famous Alpine Crossing, taking in breathtaking views on the way.
  • Raft the mighty Waimakariri River for 40 exhilarating kilometres.
  • Raise funds for Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation to help women diagnosed with gynaecological cancers access kinder treatments and have a better chance of survival.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 4/5. While no extensive trekking, cycling, or rafting experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Coast to Coast challenge is a physical challenge, involving consecutive days of difficult trekking, cycling and rafting. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. 

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $46 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Women's Cherish Cancer Foundation, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day. You will also need to build endurance to cycle up to 70 kilometres in a day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your adventure.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is in twin-share hotels and motels, with the usual facilities and amenities.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with teammates of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $3,995 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.

Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.

Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for New Zealand residents and required for non-New Zealand residents, to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to enter New Zealand?

Australian passport holders do not require a visa to enter New Zealand. For all the latest details, check Smartraveller.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonial

“It was just the best adventure! The team and the guides were amazing and everything ran so smoothly! It was truly amazing and I will never forget the experience!”

— Sarah Shields, JDRF New Zealand 2022

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.

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After something more relaxing?

If you're eager to experience New Zealand but uncertain about tackling this adventure, the Bold Coast to Coast Cherish Challenge might be for you. Over this adventure you will cycle 90 kms, trek 12 kms, and raft 40 kms through New Zealands stunning South Island.

Both the Bold and Epic Cherish Challenges will cross paths and and share a celebratory dinner with the Cherish founder, Professor Andreas Obermair on the final evening.