Women's Bikepacking Introduction
Taranaki, New Zealand
A structured introduction to bikepacking, created for women ready to confidently begin.
The Escape
Curious about bikepacking but not sure where to start? This intimate two-day experience is designed for women who want to learn the foundations in a supportive, encouraging environment.
We keep it simple and intentional: short scenic rides, practical skills, nourishing food, comfortable accommodation, and a small group that allows everyone to feel seen and supported.
Over the weekend, you'll learn how to pack your bike efficiently, ride with bags, navigate straightforward routes, and approach overnight adventures with confidence.
Your experience begins with an evening in our privately hosted accommodation in Taranaki, a comfortable, homely setting designed for relaxed conversation, shared meals, and settling into the weekend at an easy pace. It's a space to connect with the other women and fuel well for the ride ahead.
The following day, we ride approximately 40km along scenic trails and quiet country roads before arriving at Volcanoview for a relaxed camp-style afternoon and evening. Here, we gather for wholesome organic meals, learn more about changing tires, basic bike mechanics, route planning, and tips to get confident on the roads. During the evening there's time to share stories around the campfire, and enjoy some drinks for those who feel like it. It's a day of practical learning woven into real connection. Refining your skills, asking questions, and building confidence in a calm and supportive setting.
On the final day, we make our way back to New Plymouth through the countryside, tackling a few short and playful climbs before finishing with a celebratory ocean swim. A simple ritual to mark the achievement and the new friendships formed along the way.
What You'll Experience
Short scenic rides through beautiful Taranaki trails and quiet roads
Practical skills: bag packing, basic bike mechanics, and route planning
Good food — all meals thoughtfully prepared with care
Both comfortable accommodation and campsite experience – best of both worlds
A small, supportive group of just six women and an experienced female guide
Weekend Flow
Arrival & Preparation
Afternoon arrival at our homely base in New Plymouth. We begin with introductions and a relaxed group walk to settle in and connect. After a home-cooked dinner, we prepare for the next day with a route overview, what to expect on your first bikepacking ride, packing guidance and Q&A. An easy evening designed to build clarity and confidence.
Ride, Learn & Camp
Breakfast and coffee together before packing bikes as a group. You'll learn how to distribute weight, what to bring (and what not to), and comfort and efficiency tips. We ride approximately 40km at a steady, supportive pace with scenic stops and snacks along the way. At Volcanoview: lunch on arrival, set up camp together, tire changing & basic bike mechanics session, route planning tips, dinner, and campfire for relaxed evening connection.
Return & Celebrate
A relaxed morning at camp with breakfast and coffee before packing down together. We review the route and prepare for the ride back to New Plymouth. The return journey takes us through quiet countryside roads at a steady, supportive pace, with a few short and playful climbs along the way. Back in town, we finish with a celebratory ocean swim — a simple ritual to mark your achievement and the friendships formed over the weekend. You leave not only having completed your first bikepacking experience, but with the confidence and knowledge to plan your own.
What's Included
- 2 nights' accommodation
- All meals and snacks (2x dinner, 2x breakfast, 1x lunch, 2x ride snacks, 1x after ride snack)
- One alcoholic drink included during the dinners, and water & home-made lemonade available throughout the weekend
- 2 guided bikepacking rides (approx. 40km/3 hours each)
- Bag packing workshop
- Basic bike mechanics session (including tire changing)
- Route planning and navigation guidance
- Small, supportive group experience
All meals are thoughtfully prepared, with one alcoholic drink included at dinner. Water and homemade refreshments are available throughout the weekend.
Who This Is For
- Women curious about bikepacking
- Those wanting hands-on learning before committing to a longer adventure
- Women who prefer a small, supportive group
- Anyone who values comfort, good food, and meaningful connection
Frequently Asked Questions
What fitness level do I need?
This experience is beginner-friendly. You should be comfortable riding a bike, but no bikepacking experience is necessary. The ride is approximately 40km at a steady, social pace with plenty of stops.
What should I bring?
We'll send a detailed packing list upon booking. Essentials include a suitable bike, helmet, comfortable cycling gear, and personal items. Part of the weekend is learning what to pack — so we'll guide you through everything.
Is accommodation included?
Yes! Two nights of accommodation are included — your first night at our homely base in New Plymouth and your second at Volcanoview camp.
What about meals?
All meals are included: 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and ride snacks. One alcoholic drink is included during the dinners. Water and homemade lemonade are available throughout the weekend. Please let us know of any dietary requirements when booking.
Meet Your Guide
Josien
Endurance Coach and Guide
Josien brings over a decade of experience in endurance sports, from Ironman and ultra cycling to trail and ultra running. She found endurance later in life and understands what it means to balance training with work and motherhood. Calm, grounded, and supportive, she loves guiding people through new environments and helping them build confidence on the trails.
Book Your Spot
Secure your spot for a supportive, confidence-building introduction to bikepacking in beautiful Taranaki.
Select Your Date
Choose from available dates below
