Absolutely Lawrence

Jude Gamble and Mark Robertson are patron saints of cyclists. Weary riders need not worry about accommodation, rides or logistics in Lawrence as Jude and Mark have thought of everything. Jude, a shearer's cook, and Mark have three properties as well as Lawrence Bike Transfers. It's been 25 years since Jude arrived in town for her one-month stint, now she spends her spare time making it easy for visitors to fall in love just like she did. “We could see a need in Lawrence for accommodation that went above and beyond a room with a microwave. The Lawrence Townhouses are three purpose-built units that have everything you would have at home, including kitchen and full laundry.” There's also a massage chair – perfect for a post-ride wind-down.

The couple purchased The Oban Guesthouse at a mortgagee sale. “We paid bugger all for it, but then had to do the renovations ourselves.

Trees were growing inside, pools of water, rotting floorboards.” The now clean, dry and tree-free guest house is suitable for casual groups, while families or larger groups looking for a little taste of luxury might be more drawn to the brand new Mata-Au Lodge in Beaumont, with a 10-seater spa pool overlooking the Clutha Mata-Au River. There's a trail-to-door service – their van and trailer can carry up to 20 cyclists and their bikes, and can plan a route to anywhere, including airport pick-up and drop-off. (03) 485 9127, absolutelylawrence.nz