We Didn’t Expect This in Small-Town New Zealand

Motorcycle Touring New Zealand | Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo | RTW S6 EP33 We leave Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and ride through some of the most iconic landscapes in New Zealand’s South Island, heading past bright blue lakes, wide open valleys, and quiet backroads toward Lake Tekapo and beyond. This stretch of road is one we’ve ridden before, but it still hits. Glacial water, big skies, and that feeling you only get riding through the South Island with nowhere to be but the next corner. We don’t stop at everything this time, but the views between Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo speak for themselves. Along the way, we make an unexpected stop in Oamaru. We wander through the historic old town, a place that genuinely feels different to anywhere else in New Zealand. It’s one of those stops that sneaks up on you and ends up being a must-visit. We also squeeze in a beer tasting, which, after a long day riding, felt pretty well earned. Then there’s the strangest part of the day… a visit to the Steampunk HQ. Not exactly what you expect in the middle of a New Zealand ride, but somehow it fits. We’re riding two-up on our BMW R1300 GSA, fully loaded, continuing our round-the-world journey across 6 continents. Every day is different, and this one is more about the ride itself than the destination. If you’re planning a New Zealand road trip, especially around the South Island, this route between Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki, and Lake Tekapo is one you don’t skip. 🛒 Our Travel Shop: Explore our travel-tested gear & stickers: https://seanandemilytravels.com/shop 🗺️ Navigation App – calimoto: Get a 30-day free trial ➤ Use code: S&E30 Get 10% off yearly plans ➤ Use code: S&E10 Start here: https://linktr.ee/calimoto_SeanandEmily 🛟 Travel Safety – Protected by Global Rescue: Worldwide emergency rescue, evacuation, and medical support for overlanders: