Lance Armstrong's Kiwi holiday

Alvin Watson and Lance Armstrong. Photo / Supplied

Tour de France legend Lance Armstrong has been spotted in holiday hotspots across New Zealand as he takes time out from the drug allegations that continue to swirl around him.

The seven-times winner of cycling's toughest race flew into Hawke's Bay in his Gulfstream jet with partner Anna Hansen and children Maxwell and Olivia on Monday, fresh from competing in Australia.

On Friday, he signed autographs before boarding his private jet to Queenstown.

Napier cycling buff Alvin Watson was ecstatic after having an old Tour de France T-shirt and several of Armstong's books signed.

Watson said they shook hands and had a photo taken as crew loaded the baggage, baby carrier and stroller on to Armstrong's jet.

"You hear these guys are a little bit prickly, and I can understand that. But he saw my T-shirt, he had a smile, and he put his hand out," he said.

The 1.77m cyclist told Watson, who stands at 1.63m, that he made him look tall.

Watson said he was thankful his now-prized T-shirt still fitted, as it was last worn more than 10 years ago.

Multi-millionaire Armstrong, 39, was believed to have been staying at the luxury Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown, but managing director Jay Robertson claimed he had never heard of the cycling colossus.

Queenstown was abuzz with unconfirmed sightings of the famous sportsman.

One resident posted on Twitter: "Woah! Just missed Lance at the gym."

He later added: "Lance Armstrong's jet is pimp!"

Armstrong has always denied taking drugs, pointing out that his accusers have been discredited and he has never tested positive.

He had been due to compete in a Rotorua triathalon this month but pulled out.