Of course climate and mountains aren’t everything: you need a culture that’s open to mountain biking and of course places to ride. Happily, New Zealand supplies both of these elements in abundance.
“With out a doubt New Zealand pushes mountain biking a lot more,” says Katy, who’s been out in New Zealand for several months. “Trail riding is huge out here. It seems like everyone rides no matter what level they are at, they just enjoy getting out riding. Almost every town and city you head to have trails, hire bikes and maps of where the best riding spots are.”
The new bike park opening in Rotorua is the first year-round, lift-accessible bike park in the world. With 8.5km of trails ranging from slopestyle to DH on the flanks of Mount Ngongotaha, it sounds like a dream. But bike parks aren’t the only draw, as Anka Martin can attest to.
“The amazing, rugged riding over in NZ is one of the main reasons we moved out here. We just fell in love with the variety of all sorts of trails; the forests, the microclimates, the backcountry huts. There are so many places to ride, and explore, whether you want to hike-a-bike, bike tour or take the bike park. You name it, this place is pretty well suited for two wheels.”
When it comes to relaxing post-ride in New Zealand, the miles of beach, lakeshore and the thermal springs have plenty to offer the tired rider.
