Tour Aotearoa

Kennett said that as the Cycle Trail project manager, he was often asked what was the best route from Cape Reinga to Bluff, which was part of the inspiration for the event.

[1] The event is a brevet, meaning that it is not a race and cyclists ride at their own pace,[1] though participants are expected to complete the challenge in under 30 days and reach 30 photo checkpoints, as well as carry all their own gear.

[4] The New Zealand Herald reported that Jackson Kelly was believed to be the youngest person to complete the event, at age 16.

[4] Writer Graeme Simpson said in 2018 that although the route was only a few years old, "it's already one of New Zealand's great cycling adventures and is recognised as one of the best in the world, too.

[7] The route segments are selected to include as many Great Rides as possible and avoid high traffic main roads.