It features world-class trails in a pristine backcountry setting nestled between three national parks. 120 international competitors will complete a circular route from Nelson, taking in both historic trails and IMBA gold-rated bike trails.
Amateurs along with seasoned professionals; this race is a dream adventure as much as it is a competition… with truly extraordinary logistics. When the road gets rough, there will be 4×4s. Where there is no road, off on helicopters. And when there is nothing but water… it will be a boat ride!




Day 1: The Wairoa Gorge
8 stages // 28km // -2700m // +660m
The 2025 NZ MTB Rally kicks off with an exciting first day of racing in the deep and rugged valley of the now famous Wairoa Gorge, a former private bike park built by a mysterious billionaire in the 90s for his own use. Riders compete on technical singletrack, with steep and twisty descents, all hand-built over many years by a select team of the world’s best trail builders. The day ends with a cold beer and a well-earned BBQ at the finish line, just after the suspension bridge, as the last riders arrive!

Day 2: NEW – Silvan and Richmond Hills
5 Stages // -2100m // +450m
Riders returning for the second year in a row will definitely enjoy this new day! Silvan Forest MTB Park offers an exciting mix of scenic beauty and flowing trails with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline, the experience combines adventure with breathtaking natural scenery and of course fully catered! We couldn't even dream of a better place to end in this truly amazing amphitheater with live music and BBQ facing the ocean and the next destination: Golden Bay!

Day 3: Golden Bay
5 stages // 45km // -2650m // +780m
This third day will take the rider to Abel Tasman National Park, to explore its dense native forest, through slippery and rooty single-track! The last stop of the day will take the rider to Kaiteriteri Beach for a well-earned cold beer, enjoying the sunset over the next destination, across the bay: Cable Bay!

Day 4: Cable Bay
6 stages // 26km // -2100m // +750m
Ready to set sail, mate?! Today is boat day, starting with an 80 minute sunrise cruise to Cable Bay. A fantastic experience, with breakfast and coffee served on board to round things off, and if we're lucky, a few dolphins will join the party! And if you're a bit seasick, don't worry, walking the incredible trails at Cable Bay Adventure Park will heal you in no time! With a perfect mix of flowing and winding trails, hand-crafted through pine and native forests, this place has it all for a great day of racing! Not to mention the quality of the food station!

Day 5: Heli Day // WAKAMARINA
3 stages // -1350m // +475m
The Wakamarina Trail is a must-do in the Nelson area for all backcountry adventurers! And the adventure begins with an epic helicopter ride to a small clearing in the middle of a forested ridge, with no choice but to ride incredible single track trails that wind their way through black beech trees, huge native ferns and crystal clear rivers!

Day 6: NELSON CITY
5 stages // 31km // -2700m // +600m
The final day showcases the best of the riding in town, directly to and from your accommodation in the city centre to discover all the amazing trails built and maintained by the Nelson MTB Club
Riders race to the finish line, knowing they have conquered one of the world's toughest MTB challenges. The event ends with a grand ceremony and party, celebrating both the winners and the incredible achievements of all the participants.
ALL INFO AT THE OFFICIAL SITE
