Andrew Robinson
- Sunday Nov 30 2025
Andrew Robinson Completes All 23 Great Rides: A Huge Month for Movember and a Special Moment on the Otago Central Rail Trail
Andrew Robinson finished cycling on the Otago Central Rail Trail and is at the Clyde Railhead Friday, 29th November 2025
The Otago Central Rail Trail Trust, its Partners and community extends our warmest congratulations to Andrew Robinson, who has now completed all 23 of Aotearoa’s Great Rides — over 5,500km of self-supported riding in just one month, all in support of Movember.
Andrew’s national mission, known as Tough Yarns, set out to raise $230,000 for Movember by riding every Great Ride across the motu. His kaupapa focuses on doing difficult things, creating human connection, and sparking meaningful conversations about men’s mental and physical health.
Throughout November, riders, volunteers, operators, and trail communities across the country have watched his dot move steadily south — and our Trail was honoured to play a memorable part in his epic journey.
A standout effort on the Otago Central Rail Trail
Andrew started on the Otago Central Rail Trail in Alexandra on Thursday, 27th November 2025
Andrew refuelled at the Strath Taieri Pub courtesy of the Strath Taieri Pub!
He completed the OCRT there and back within a 24-hour period, even squeezing in a short sleep before climbing back into the saddle. After rolling into Clyde, he didn’t stop for long — heading straight on to tackle the Lake Dunstan Trail and onwards to Queenstown.
This huge effort reflects everything Tough Yarns stands for: grit, resilience, and the power of doing hard things to spark connection and conversation.
The final push
Yesterday Andrew completed Around the Mountains Trail, and today the Queenstown Trail, including a full loop around Queenstown. He wrapping things up with well-earned celebrations at Altitude Brewery, finally able to take a breath after a month of kilometres, cold mornings, long climbs, and a lot of mahi behind the scenes.
A humble rider with a powerful kaupapa
When Andrew first reached out to the national cycle trails network, he wasn’t asking for sponsorship or special treatment — only that the Great Rides whānau knew what he was attempting.
Andrew on the Mutton Town Viaduct near Clyde on Friday, 28th November 2025
We’ve been lucky to follow his progress and to play a part in this journey, and it’s been clear from the start that Andrew is genuine, grounded, and deeply committed to his purpose. Many Great Rides — including our own community — offered him small acts of manaakitanga: a warm meal, a bed, a coffee, a wave, or a conversation. None of it was expected, but all of it has contributed to the spirit of the mission.
About Tough Yarns
Tough Yarns is built around a simple idea:
Do difficult things. Have meaningful human connection.
The project is shaped by Andrew’s personal experiences — years of endurance racing, bikepacking, outdoor challenges, and honest battles with mental health. After completing NZ’s 10 Great Walks in 10 days and navigating the emotional crash that followed, he realised it wasn’t just about finishing goals — it was about who you share the journey with.
Tough Yarns champions:
- Human connection
- Resilience through challenge
- Mental health through action
- Authenticity over perfection
This ride across all 23 Great Rides has been the biggest expression of that kaupapa yet.
There’s still time to support Andrew
Andrew’s fundraising page remains open as he works towards his $230,000 Movember goal.
- Donate or learn more: toughyarns.com
- Follow Andrew: Instagram / TikTok / Facebook — @toughyarns
If you’ve been inspired by his journey, please consider sharing his story within your networks or simply sending him a message of support.
Andrew Robinson finishes the Otago Central Rail Trail Friday, 28th November 2025
From the Otago Central Rail Trail Trust
Andrew, ngā mihi nui. Riding the Rail Trail twice in 24 hours — and doing it as part of a 5,500km nationwide mission — is an extraordinary feat. We’re proud to have been part of your journey and grateful for the light you’re shining on men’s health and connection.
Congratulations on completing all 23 Great Rides.
Enjoy the rest, the celebrations, and the yarns to come. You’ve earned every bit of it.