Cycling & Mountain Biking

Rotorua is a world-famous mountain biking haven and home to Crankworx Rotorua.

In 2019, the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) renewed Rotorua’s four-year status as being one of the world’s best mountain biking destinations with their most prestigious gold-level Ride Centre™ status. 

The world-renowned network of approximately 200 kilometres of mountain bike trails in Whakarewarewa Forest consists of expertly built trails crafted to suit everyone, from absolute beginners (there’s even a kids’ loop, great for working out any pre-ride wobbles) through to extreme downhill competitors, and for any age and fitness level.
 

One of the newest trails to open in the forest – and recently named a New Zealand Cycle Trails Great Ride – is the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop, a 33km circular trail designed to be accessible to a broad range of riders. You don’t need to be a professional downhiller; as long as you’re a confident rider, you’ll find the variety of uphill, downhill and flat sections interesting, fun and fairly easy to navigate. This trail is also super fun on an e-bike and includes look-out points with amazing views.

If you’re a road cycling enthusiast who enjoys scenic routes, riding Te Ara Ahi ‘Thermal by Bike’ is a great option, taking you past geothermal areas, beautiful lakes and forests, and significant historical and cultural sites. You can also ride all the way around Lake Rotorua, with a dedicated cycle trail encompassing all but the narrower curving areas in Hamurana.

There are many more options in and near Rotorua, such as Skyline MTB Park, Rainbow Mountain, Moerangi Track, Western Okataina Walkway, the Timber Trail and Whirinaki Forest Trails, to name a few. 
 
Don't let the lack of gear hold you back. Rotorua is home to more than its fair share of quality bike shops, making it easy to hire or purchase (as well as repair) whatever you need, and get first-hand trail advice.

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Whaka 100

The toughest and largest mountain biking event in the Southern Hemisphere, the Whaka 100 takes place every October. With events for everyone looking to compete or complete, from a 5km kids' event, up to the 100km and 160km Whaka Miler, all featuring the best singletrack Whakarewarewa Forest has to offer.
 

Crankworx Rotorua

The annual mountain biking festival and world competition Crankworx first came to Rotorua in 2015 and lured the best of the best riders from around the globe to compete for world titles in a variety of downhill and trick events. The week-long Crankworx Rotorua, to be held in March 2023, is an incredible festival for competitors and spectators alike.