About us - Enviromentally Friendly Bikers!

Mike Lester is the Managing Director and has been a passionate motorcyclist since way back.

“I was born with a pair of handlebars in my hands and Castrol in myveins! I've been riding bikes legally since 1965 and over the years I've owned a multitude of bikes including Triumphs, Blackbirds, and Harleys. I have a passion for all things motorised and my prized possessions currently include a couple of Triumph TR classics - a TR4A and a TR8.”

Mike is the CEO and owner of South Pacific. Be prepared for lots of bike talk if you're lucky enough to meet him when you pick up your Ride. 

Previously an electrician in the UK, Mike moved to New Zealand in 2002. Trained to an advanced level by the Institute of Advanced Motorcyclists, Mike loves passing on his vast riding knowledge to our tour guests who want to improve their ride.

More about Mike

Carole has lived in New Zealand since the 1970s and extremely proud to call Christchurch home. She is a wonderful host, excels in Customer Service, and manages the company alongside husband Mike. Carole’s enthusiasm and dedication to quality has helped South Pacific Motorcycle Tours New Zealand to become the best motorcycle touring company in New Zealand.

Carole got her full motorcycle licence at the ripe old age of 53 and has a message for all ladies thinking of moving from the passenger seat to rider’s seat – "do it!" Her favourite motorbike on the fleet is the Triumph Bonneville T100 Classic, all tuned up and fitted with full race exhaust. In addition to motorcycling Carole is passionate about the environment and Responsible Tourism.  She's a Nature-lover and also a great cook..

More about Carole

Kim is Carole's daughter and a  keen motorcyclist.

She is also an animal lover and when you arrive at the Christchurch base you'll probably meet her gorgeous Alaskan Malamute, Mika.  She is also passionate about  everything New Zealand.
Not only does Kim bring a wealth of skills to the company and her Customer Services and inter-personal skills are exemplary.  Kim always strives to make our clients happy!

 

David moved over with his family from the UK many years ago and thoroughly enjoys being in NZ.

David is our resident qualified Bike Mechanic, he is the reason all the bikes are always ready to go out in pristine condition, so if you see him lurking in the depths of the Workshop, be sure to say hello and give him a pat on the back.

Hayley, Mike's daughter, moved to New Zealand in 2004 along with her husband Ian and family.

Hayley has worked in the UK for magazine publications as a graphic designer and has continued within this field working with signwriting companies and producing our advertising material. She is now our Travel Manager and responsible for producing our legendary GPS and Fully Guided Tour Itineraries.

 

Chris is a very likable and socialable guy as well as being a very experienced motorcyclist who has been guiding motorcycle tours all over the world.

Born and bred in New Zealand, with a wealth of knowledge and experience, you can be assured you will be shown not just the typical tourist stuff but some hidden secrets only known to Chris as well. 

South Pacific Motorcycle Tours is privileged to have Chris on board. 

 
Dave is originally from the UK but kiwi through and through these days. Recently retired from 30 years combined service with the Ministry of Transport and New Zealand Police starting off as a motorcycle cop in Auckland.
 
Mad keen on motorcycling and travel, has been all over NZ on 2 wheels and last year toured South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Namibia by bike with his 19 yr old daughter.
 
Dave is currently riding a Kawasaki Concours GTR14 and member of several NZ and international motorcycle groups.