Great Escapes : A Guide To Motorcycle Touring in New Zealand

New Zealand is a paradise for motorcycle touring. The appeal of the open road is heightened by the magnificent scenery and the exuberant variety of dramatic landscapes. Here it is possible to travel from the beach, to the river, to the mountains and back again in one day.

This excellent guide to over 40 great escape runs, in both the North and South Island, explores endless terrains of open country, spectacular coastlines and hidden roads of promise. Each run is accompanied by a map, a route description giving times and distances, and an overview of the added attractions and highlights encountered along the way.

All runs have been graded and the author includes tips on improving riding skills, what to pack, as well as information about weather patterns and crossing Cook Strait. He also lists motorcycle-friendly accommodation, the best places to eat (from the finest fish & chips to smoked salmon), local folklore and much more. Contact details for Visitor Information Centres are given complete with phone, email and web-site numbers where available.

Grab your helmet and fill up the tank! This book will make you head for the road.

Peter Mitchell was introduced to the joys of motorcycling as an economic necessity while studying at the University of Otago in New Zealand. He has since become an enthusiast for the open road.

Peter has traveled widely and enjoys writing and painting. He and his partner Donna welcome fellow travellers at their historic Castlewood Bed and Breakfast in Dunedin .