Dave’s mammoth bike trek across New Zealand in memory of his friend

Keen mountain biker Dave Cox completed a gruelling 1,630 mile cycle across New Zealand in aid of Prospect Hospice, raising £1,967.82.

Dave wanted to ‘give something back’ and recognise the outstanding care and support that his friend received from Prospect Hospice ten years ago.

Last summer Dave was inspired by two cyclists who were travelling around England, whom he met in a coffee shop. Three months later he arrived in Auckland for a momentous journey, cycling from Auckland to Invercargill, raising money for Prospect Hospice and Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

His unsupported bike ride meant that he carried a 40kg load with camping gear, tools and equipment across the challenging multi-terrain that took in some spectacular scenery including Lake Tekapo and climbing the Lindis Pass.

Dave said: “The route was flexible and the roads in New Zealand vary from smooth tarmac to gravel and dirt, and mountains.”

“The journey was physically tough, especially as it was New Zealand’s wettest November on record. The mountain passes were a major challenge, the longest day was 80 miles with 7,500 feet of climbing!”

Whilst travelling Dave met fellow cyclist Yasuhiko, Dave said: “I met Yasuhiko, from Japan, like me he was travelling around New Zealand, we shared laughs and stories, our friendship helped me through the tough days.”

Challenges fundraiser, Sally Bere, said of the achievement: “We cannot thank Dave enough, to take on a challenge that would involve thousands of miles, mountain ascents and multi terrains was truly inspirational. Thank you so much for carrying out such a major challenge and thank you to everyone who supported Dave on his journey.”

Has Dave’s challenge inspired you?

Dave says: “Go for it. It was a brilliant expereince and I would not have missed it for the world. You meet some wonderful people, and it will open your eyes to the kindness of strangers and the good side of human nature. Don’t over plan it, just cover the basics and let the adventure unfold around you.”

For more information visit our Challenges page here