In early June 2026, seasoned cyclists Joe Nation and Rufus Wenlock embarked on a formidable journey across New Zealand’s South Island, tracing a historic trade route that presented unforeseen challenges. Their adventure, which commenced at 3 a.m. on a Saturday and concluded by Monday evening, was fraught with obstacles, including sections of the trail washed away, treacherous river crossings, and arduous mountain passes. Despite these hardships, the duo’s determination and resilience saw them through to the end.
This expedition was not their first foray into New Zealand’s rugged terrains. In November 2025, Nation and Wenlock participated in the “Project Double Shake,” a head-to-head race along the 3,000-kilometer Shaky Isles route. This route, designed by Brian Alder, creator of the Tour Te Waipounamu, traverses the length of New Zealand, avoiding main roads and weaving through the country’s backcountry and remote landscapes. In this unique race format, Nation and Wenlock started at opposite ends of the country, covering the same distance and elevation in reverse directions. Nation completed the ride in 8 days and 16 hours, while Wenlock finished in 9 days and 5 hours. (bikepacking.com)
Their recent South Island traverse was a testament to their enduring passion for bikepacking and their unwavering commitment to exploring New Zealand’s diverse and challenging landscapes. The journey not only tested their physical limits but also deepened their appreciation for the country’s natural beauty and historical significance.
For a visual account of their latest adventure, you can watch Joe Nation’s 35-minute video documenting the ride below: