Discover the ultimate mountain biking paradise!
Rotorua, a world-renowned mountain biking haven and the proud home of Crankworx Rotorua, offers an unparalleled experience for biking enthusiasts of all levels.
In 2019, the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) reaffirmed Rotorua’s status as one of the globe's premier mountain biking destinations by awarding it the prestigious gold-level Ride Centre™ status. This accolade cements Rotorua’s reputation for excellence in the mountain biking community.
Nestled in the breath-taking Whakarewarewa Forest lies a sprawling network of approximately 200 kilometres of meticulously crafted mountain bike trails. Designed to cater to every rider, from absolute beginners – complete with a kids' loop to shake off any pre-ride jitters – to extreme downhill competitors, these trails accommodate all ages and fitness levels.
A highlight of the forest is the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop which earned New Zealand Cycle Trails Great Ride status shortly after its completion in early 2023. This 33km circuit is mostly Grade 2 with a couple Grade 3 sections, and offers uphill climbs, exhilarating downhill sections, and smooth, flat stretches – all well-suited for confident mountain bikers. It also features scenic lookout points that provide stunning vistas for selfies, and is a blast on an e-bike.
But wait, that’s not all! Explore the adrenaline-pumping trails of Skyline Mountain Bike Park in Rotorua, or just out of town tackle the short but rugged terrain of Rainbow Mountain.
For road-cycling enthusiasts, the scenic Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail guides you through geothermal areas, serene lakes, lush forests, and significant historical and cultural sites. Alternatively, you can circumnavigate Lake Rotorua on a dedicated cycle trail that covers all but the narrower, winding sections in Hamurana.
Don’t worry about gear – Rotorua boasts a wealth of quality bike shops offering rentals, purchases, repairs, and expert trail advice. And if you’re looking for expert guides and advice, head to see the folks at Planet Bike or Mountain Bike Rotorua. Everything you need is right at your fingertips.
October in Rotorua is synonymous with the Whaka 100, the Southern Hemisphere's most gruelling and expansive mountain biking event. With races ranging from a 5km kids' event to the intense 100km and 160km Whaka Miler, this event showcases the best singletrack Whakarewarewa Forest has to offer.
Since its inaugural event in 2015, Crankworx Rotorua has become a highlight on the global mountain biking calendar. This annual festival attracts elite riders from around the world, competing in a variety of thrilling downhill and trick events. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, the week-long Crankworx Rotorua festival is an unforgettable experience.
RideRotorua Store
Cycling & Mountain Biking, Central
RideRotorua Store is a destination shop for mountain bikers, and the world’s only stockist of Rotorua’s homegrown mountain biking brand Nzo.
Nzo
Cycling & Mountain Biking, Central
Nzo is a locally owned and operated apparel brand with products built for the bike life.
Cyclezone Rotorua
Cycling & Mountain Biking, Central
Cyclezone Rotorua is your local bike store when you’re visiting Rotorua! See them for mountain bike hire, sales, service and repairs.
Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) Mountain Biking
Cycling & Mountain Biking, South
Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as the Redwoods, is a mecca for mountain bikers, with more than 180km of trails winding their way through native and exotic forest.
New Zealand Mountain Biking
Cycling & Mountain Biking, East
Based in one of the best places to ride in the world, New Zealand Mountain Biking has experiences to suit any level of rider from beginner lessons through to six-day Enduro-style tours.
Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Home of the Tuhourangi and Ngāti Wahiao people and located on a geothermal plateau, Whakarewarewa Village is New Zealand’s oldest continuous Māori tourism experience, even pre-dating the world-famous Pink and White Terraces.
Sulphur Bay Wildlife Refuge
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Explore an amazing geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home.
Skyline Mountain Bike Park
Cycling & Mountain Biking, North
Skyline Rotorua is home to New Zealand's first year-round gondola-assisted bike lift, allowing mountain bikers access to world-class downhill trails.
Planet Bike
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Planet Bike offers freedom bike hire, mountain bike tours for first timers to expert, bike fixes, Bike Bitz'n spares, trail information & maps, as well as 'Coffee 2 go'. Planet Bike are principal sponsors of the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club.
MDA Experiences
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Our Exclusive Tours create the perfect excursion tailored to our guest, including a personal guide, complete privacy and the best we have to offer at MDA Experiences.
Maunga Kākaramea (Rainbow Mountain) Summit Track
Cycling & Mountain Biking
A 2.5km walk or mountain bike ride to the top of Mt Kakaramea rewards you with breathtaking 360° views.
Mountain Bike Rotorua
Cycling & Mountain Biking, South
Mountain Bike Rotorua is your gateway to Whakarewarewa Forest, the stunning jewel in the crown of the adventure destination that is Rotorua. Located in the forest itself, the friendly team at the MBR base has everything you need to get biking.