Aotearoa, New Zealand was the chosen location for a tandem biking adventure for a group of three blind and vision-impaired friends. And what an adventure it was too. Covering over 300 km from the South Island’s Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean over a period of 5 days was no mean feat! Organised and led by Ability Adventures, New Zealand’s dedicated accessible travel company, the group was supported by 3 pilot riders and a support vehicle/driver.
The ride followed an epic mix of off-road tracks, purposed-built cycle trails, and unsealed and sealed roads. Beginning near New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook, the group cycled past stunning glacial-fed lakes and snow-capped peaks before following along the country’s main Hydro Electric System through to an incredible area of rock and fossil formations. All this while cycling predominantly downhill, descending 780 meters throughout the trail before reaching the finish at the seaside town of Oamaru.
Although by the end everyone was grateful to be sitting on something other than a bike seat, all were buzzing from the challenge and excitement of the trip.
“Thank you so much for a fabulous, fun, physical, and exciting week. It exceeded our expectations. See you on the next trip.” Love Sue, Den, and Gary
Marina Hanger is the owner, adventure planner and head guide for Ability Adventures. Marina established Ability Adventures in 2008 and has over thirty years’ experience as an occupational therapist working with people with a wide range of disabilities. In recent years she was involved in researching, planning and leading wilderness, adventure and personal development programmes within New Zealand for blind and visually impaired people of all ages. In addition, Marina has 15 years’ experience in the tourism industry. She co-founded one of New Zealand’s first eco-tourism companies providing quality natural history tours for national and international clients. Raised in rural New Zealand, Marina is passionate about her homeland, its outdoors and the value of adventure in our lives. She takes great pride in providing unforgettable accessible holiday adventures for all.
