blurry placeholderNZMTB Rally Sharlands Trails credit Todd Couper

NZ MTB Rally

Event Date

22 - 29 March 2025

A 6-day enduro-format mountain bike race traversing relatively undiscovered parts of Te Tauihu.

Compete on world-class trails in a pristine backcountry environment sandwiched between three national parks. The route follows an epic itinerary blending historic tracks with modern, purpose-built singletrack and incorporates some properly rad logistics: Heli-Drops, Boat Access, and 4x4 Shuttles. It is somewhat off the trodden path, on a small island at the very edge of the world, yet with surprisingly easy travel options. Is it the perfect spot for an epic new take on multi-day MTB Enduro?

The ‘Top of the South’—Te Tauihu—is known for its beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, wild mountains, and three National Parks. Our region’s warm, settled climate regularly tops NZ’s sunshine hours charts. A rich history of fossicking for gold and minerals has left a network of historic trails that feel purpose-made for a modern full-suspension rig. The region’s capital, Nelson, has long been the go-to destination for Kiwis ‘in the know’.

A supportive and progressive council and ‘can-do’ locals' attitude have seen this historical network complemented by hundreds of hand-crafted, purpose-built mountain bike trails. Nelson was confirmed to host the EWS in 2021, but COVID-19 travel restrictions forced cancellation. NZ MTB Rally fills that gap…but with something refreshingly original. 

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NZ MTB Rally 2024 - Highlights

First edition 9-16th March 2024. It was an epic week.

Read the Pinkbike's Staff Ride story.

blurry placeholderWhile all other competitors took helicopters to the top of some stages, Matt Fairbrother hiked it with his bike.

Kiwi teenager completes ‘insane, impossible’ cycling feat

Matt Fairbrother wins the NZ MTB Rally entirely self-supported.
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