When you visit New Zealand you will be amazed at what a gorgeous, green country it is, with very little rubbish lying around. We're very keen to keep it this way and to do our bit for the environment. We recycle all our waste, even our old tyres are collected and turned into playground protection and road surfaces. And you can help too ... you will notice our 'Take it or Leave It' recycling bins in our reception area for you to donate any unwanted items, or to help yourself to pre-loved items. You won't find rubbish bins in our pristine national parks - you will be expected to take any litter 'home' with you.
Envonironment Policy
Our Vision - To invest in the future wellbring and sustainability of NZ as a whole, now and for years to come, through responsible tourism. We lead lead the motorcycle rental and touring industry in our efforts to offset carbon pollution and develope our business at every level to ensure waste is minimised and our environment protected.
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Who are we?
- St John First-aid Trained
- Rental Service Licence approved
- Passenger Endorsed
- Members of the Institute of Advanced Motorcyclists
- Trip Advisor 'Hall of Fame' Certifcate of Excellence Winners
- 'Exceptional Tourism Provider' Award Winners - Champion Canterbury Awards
Mike Lester
Mike Lester is the MD and has been a motorcyclist since way back.
“I was born with a pair of handlebars in my hands and Castrol in my veins! I've been riding bikes 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, and my gorgeous 1953 Matchless G9500 Twin.”
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 is now a New Zealand Observer. Mike loves passing on his vast riding knowledge to our tour guests who may want to improve their ride.
Carole Lester
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 looks after guests staying at the on-site B&B, Mandeville Lodge.
Kim Johnston
When you make an enquiry with South Pacific you may be lucky enough to receive a reply from the wonderful Kim. Her customer services and inter-personal skills are exemplary and she consistently strives to make all our clients happy. Kim loves bikes and is an excellent rider, her favourite bike on the fleet being either the Royal Enfield or the T100 Bonnie, and if Kim gets the chance to tour with South Pacific she's there.
Kim is an animal lover and passionate about everything New Zealand. With a background in Media and TV Production, Kim brings a wealth of skills to the company.
David
David moved over with his family from the UK many years ago and thoroughly enjoys being in NZ.
Known to us here as the Road Commander, David is our resident qualified motorcycle mechanic, and is the reason all the bikes are always ready to go out in pristine condition.
So if you see the Road Commander lurking in the depths of the Workshop, be sure to pull him out, say hello, and give him a pat on the back!
Hayley
Hayley is our Travel Manager, responsible for travel and activity bookings and producing our legendary GPS and Fully Guided Tour Itineraries. Hayley is Mike's daughter and moved to New Zealand in 2004 along with her husband Ian and family. Whist Ian's toys are on and off-road bikes, Hayley prefers one of the Quads these days.
Hayley has worked in the UK for magazine publications as a graphic designer and her knowledge has been a godsend for South Pacific, helping with publication, website and itinerary design. When you arrive at South Pacific Hayley will probably be the one to offering you cups of tea and biscuits!
Chris Carey
South Pacific Motorcycle Tours is extremely privileged to have Chris, aka Captain Carefree, as one of our Tour Guides. He 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.
John Macdonald
Hi! I'm John Macdonald and have been riding for 40 years now. It all started when I was 17 as a way to have fun with weekend trail rides but also as a means of commuting as it was cheap transport to and from work. I ride for sheer pleasure doing 20,000 kms in New Zealand each year.I have taught and encouraged my wife to ride as well, so she rides a 650 V Strom to go along-side my 1000cc V Strom.
I am a rider mentor and, like Mike, I'm an advanced rider and observer under the Institute of Advanced Motoring system (IAM). Currently I am the chairperson of the Nelson Motorcycle Safety group here in the Top of the South where I live, looking at ways to make our region safer for motorcyclists.
If I am lucky enough to be your tour guide it will be my pleasure to show you parts of NZ that will truly amaze you
Molly
Molly will probably be first in line to greet you. She's our resident cocker spaniel, extremely friendly and loves any attention given.
However please be aware that she loves to steal socks and will be inspecting your bags once opened! On a serious note, if you do not want or cannot have Molly around just let us know and we'll make sure she stays in the house.