Cyclists from throughout New Zealand have registered for a new event that will take them along the rugged Catlins coast over two days in May.
The inaugural Catlins Great Escape Bike Journey is being billed as New Zealand's premier coastal bike ride and organisers say the early interest in the event justifies the tag.
Tourism Catlins co-ordinator Kim Dodds said more than 70 registrations had already been received and organisers would accept only 110.
"If there is anyone considering joining this journey, then I do encourage them to register as soon as possible."
Mrs Dodds said the event had also attracted strong support from the local community, businesses and sponsors to help develop the event into an annual fixture.
The Mataura Licensing Trust is the main sponsor for the event and support has also been received from the Trusts Charitable Foundation, with funds that were generated at Clutha Licensing Trust venues, Tourism Catlins trustee Robyn Shanks said.
The two-day event starts on May 23. The 80km tour will start at Waikawa and follow the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins coastal rainforest park.
The overnight stop will be at Tautuku Outdoor Education Centre and the ride will finish in Owaka the next day.
Entries close on May 1. Information is available by contacting Mrs Dodds on (03) 4158 954.
