EDITION 2
22-29th MARCH
What’s the NZ MTB RALLY?
NZ MTB Rally is a week-long enduro-format adventure, traversing New Zealand’s ‘undiscovered’ top-of-the-south region. Comprising world-class trails in a pristine backcountry environment, sandwiched between three national parks.
120 international competitors will complete a circular itinerary out of Nelson, taking in both historic tracks and IMBA gold-level bike-trails.
Amateurs alongside seasoned pros; this race is a bucket-list adventure as much as it is a competition….with properly rad logistics: if there’s a road, we’ll shuttle it. When that road gets rough, we’ll take our 4x4s. Where there’s no road at all, we’ll jump in our helicopters. And when there’s nothing but water…we’ll go by boat.
The very best of the Top of the South
The Rally’s circular itinerary comprises an original route conceived especially for the race; sandwiched between 3 National Parks, taking in a blend of both historic backcountry tracks and purpose built MTB trails. But if you’re thinking machine-build bike park, you’ll be in for a surprise. The trails in Nelson and the surrounding area consist almost entirely of hand-built singletrack built by an enthusiastic local MTB community comprising over 3000 active members.
In simple terms, NZ MTB Rally is an uplift-assisted enduro race. With 4 to 6 gravity-biased race stages per day, connected by scenic backcountry liaisons and shuttled uplifts using 4×4, helicopter and boat. Visiting a notably different ride-spot each day, from three different basecamp locations. It’s a route that gives the impression of going on a coherent journey, with a purpose, rather than simply cruising from one bike park to the next on a coach tour.
“Only” a race…?
Whilst it’s a race, our expectations are that at least half of the 120-rider start list will be here for the adventure, awesome trails, beautiful scenery, and party vibes; not necessarily keeping a close eye on their finishing times.
And likely showing only the vaguest of interest in the heroic fight for the podium going on at the top of the field. Or at least, that’s what they are pretending is gonna happen. (What actually happens once you’re between the tapes, is anyone’s guess and plans of ‘just taking it easy’ and ‘I’m not really here to race’ are often forgotten).
NZ MTB Rally is a party-to-pedal ratio of well over 2 to 1: our typical day averages 600 – 1200m climb and 2300 to 3000m descent. For those who don’t relish shouldering their bike, fear not: we’re not into it either. “Hike-a-bike? Hell Nah, Bro! Why walk, when you can take The Heli?” (preferably quipped whilst wearing aviator sunglasses and singlet, mullet shimmering in the breeze. Then casually popping the cap on a cold kiwi beer you just pulled from the overflowing cool box full of bevvies that you’ve stashed in the trunk of your pickup; conveniently there all along…almost as if waiting for this very moment of manly glory).
Over the week, we average about 70% backcountry and 30% bike-park stages, although when the park stuff is hand-cut beech forest goodness, we’ll forgive you if you struggle to notice the difference. We’ll throw in a groomer most days, but if you’re here for a proper Kiwi adventure… you’ve come to the right place.
Who’s racing?
Whilst it’s a race, our expectations are that at least half of the 120-riders will be here for the adventure, awesome trails, beautiful scenery, and party vibes; not necessarily keeping a close eye on their finishing times.
And amongst these 120 riders are some serious competitors, 6 names seems to have a big chance to be found on top of the podium at the end of the week :
Matt Fairbrother
DEVIATE
2024 NZ MTB RALLY WINNER – Fully unsupported
The young kiwi-grown adventurer has marked the spirit last year by not only completing the NZ Rally fully un-supported, but also winning the whole race at the same time !
He’s back for this second edition, as a regular rider. Let’s see how fast he can ride when not exhausted after a 7 hours kayaking night ! (read his crazy story – 2024)
How would you introduce yourself to an audience that doesn’t yet have the pleasure of knowing you and what you do/did?
“I’m a young kiwi Enduro racer, most known for bikepacking hundreds of kms in between Enduro World Cup Races whilst still competing and most recently combining ultra-endurance with enduro racing by successfully attempting the NZ MTB Rally self-supported in 2024.”
What motivated you to race NZ RALLY again this year?
“The trails and atmosphere, the trails in Nelson are hard to beat but the vibes all week somehow make them exponentially better”
Which spot/trail is your favourite riding place during the race week?
“Probably Cable Bay, there is no shortage of goodness up there!”
What are you going to do with all this free time in the evenings as you won’t have to pedal extra 100km every day this year?
“Put the feet up and relax! Probably eat a lot of food and drink a lot of chocolate milk too”
Kilian Bron
COMMENCAL
He is probably the most famous French enduro rider, known for his creative line choices, and daring stunts in challenging terrains, in scenic & remoted area in the world to showcase them in breath-taking, high quality movies !
And if he’s really talented in producing amazing content, he’s also really fast ! He’s 4x winner of the Mountain Of Hell and twice second at Megavalanche Alpe d’Huez.
How would you introduce yourself to an audience that doesn’t yet have the pleasure of knowing you and what you do?
“I spend most of my time in the mountains and on my bike, always in search of summits and unusual trails. I see the bike as the perfect tool for expressing myself in the mountains and I love getting off the beaten track. Over the years, I’ve developed a real passion for images, travelling and meeting people. And that’s what I’ve been trying to promote over the last few years, to share this global vision of cycling. Cycling has opened my eyes to all these other aspects, well beyond the pleasure I get from riding.
When I manage to put all these elements together, I’m happy, and I dedicate my whole life to it. “
What attracts you to this blind enduro stage race, and why try it now?
“What attracts me, like my previous answer, is the adventure. I see this event as a group adventure, where we all set off to explore the heart of the north of the island. I don’t like to use the word ‘race’ because I think it’s more than that.
It’s certainly a sporting challenge, but above all it’s an ideal opportunity to share time with other enthusiasts. During the day on the bike and over a beer and a BBQ in the evening. “
Like many of the participants, you’re not here just for the race. What are your plans for New Zealand during your stay?
“I’m wrapping up two months of travelling in NZ with this event. During this period, I’m planning a fairly complete tour of the country. Without necessarily spending time in the best-known bike parks, I’m going to enjoy exploring the country from other angles. I’m also a regular mountain runner and I like to find nice mountain huts away from it all. I’d also like to find out more about the people, the history of the country… But I’d also like to spend more time on the coast, perhaps discovering new activities on the water.
I see NZ as a very varied country and I want to experience that.”
You’re a lover of adventure and discovery, but you’re also a real competitor. How do you feel about racing against the likes of Sam Blenkinsop and above all Matt Fairbrother, winner of the first edition, in the conditions we all know?
“I also see myself as a competitor, or rather someone who challenges himself at every level. Through my various journeys and objectives of summits and volcanoes, but also on certain targeted races. I like to train, to be in shape, and to be able to express myself on the bike in this way too!
So it’s obviously a pleasure to challenge myself with these riders who inspire me, and with whom I could spend time all week.”
Sam Blenkinsop
ZERODE
He is a highly accomplished professional downhill mountain biker from New Zealand, renowned for his aggressive riding style and exceptional skills on steep, technical tracks. Sam will be representing our main sponsor, the kiwi brand ZERODE Bikes !
The bets are on!
How would you introduce yourself to an audience that doesn’t yet have the pleasure of knowing you and what you do?
“Hi I am Sam blenkinsop 36 years young I live the dream every day I ride bikes for a living and have done for 20 years now so thankful.”
Is this your first participation in a blind enduro stage race ? what is it that attracts you to this format, and why should you try it now?
“Yes this is my first time racing something like this a multi day event like this very excited as it’s more of an adventure in any reason to come and Ride in Nelson is a good one, For me now I just love doing different stuff and seeing what’s out there.”
How do you feel about racing against riders like Kilian Bron and especially Matt Fairbrother, winner of the first edition, in the conditions we’re all familiar with?
“Excited to race against Matthew as he’s a good dude and loves a good grind so he’s gonna make it hard on me, I don’t know of kilian so will see but I am here for a good time and will see what happens.”
Tuhoto-Ariki PENE
ZERODE
Tuhoto-Ariki Pene, is a Maori professional mountain bike rider specializing in downhill racing. With a background in BMX, he transitioned to mountain biking and quickly made his mark by securing a bronze medal at the 2019 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in the Junior category.
His impressive performances include a 14th-place finish at the 2021 World Championships in Val di Sole and victories in the IXS Downhill European Cup in Pila.
Known for his dynamic riding style and rapid ascent in the international downhill scene, Tuhoto-Ariki continues to represent New Zealand on the world stage and he will for sure try to take the win on his lands at the NZ MTB RALLY !
How would you introduce yourself to an audience that doesn’t yet have the pleasure of knowing you and what you do?
“Kia Ora, my names Tuhoto-Ariki Pene. A 23 year old Maori boy from Rotorua. Maori as my first language but funny enough I almost learnt to ride a bike before I could walk or talk. Since then I’ve raced all across the world, starting with Bmx at a young age, and now Racing Downhill full time traveling around to the world cups seeing how far I can push it.”
Is this your first participation in a blind enduro stage race ?
“Yeah it’s my first time racing this kind of enduro I don’t normally race up hills anyways just down and take the shuttle or chairlift up.”
What are your expectation with the trails in Nelson area?
“I haven’t done to much riding there only the downhill tracks. But can’t wait to see what it has to offer. All I hear is good things from the bros. “
How do you feel about racing against all these other riders?
“Look forward to racing those top boys, I think they might have to let me follow them on a couple tracks to keep me in the runnings tho haha.”
Matt WALKER
PIVOT
A powerhouse in both Enduro and Downhill, Matt Walker has proven himself on the world stage with standout results in the Enduro World Series (EWS) and Crankworx events. A former NZ Elite Downhill National Champion, he’s claimed multiple EWS Top 10 finishes and podiums at some of the toughest races worldwide.
Known for his aggressive yet precise riding, Matt excels on steep, technical terrain—making him a perfect fit for the New Zealand MTB Rally. Get ready to see him charge full speed through NZ’s wild backcountry! 🚵♂️💨
How would you introduce yourself to an audience that doesn’t yet have the pleasure of knowing you and what you do?
“I’m Originally from a small town about 40 minutes from Rotorua but now live in Queenstown NZ! I first started racing Mountain bikes at 18, it was on and off for a while but I now ride for the Pivot Factory Racing Team on the World Cup circuit, my main focus these days is the enduro side of things where I have managed to snag a few podiums and even a World Cup win..”
Is this your first participation in a blind enduro stage race ?
“This will be my first ever blind race and I am genuinely so excited for it, I have always wanted to do some of these multi day blind races but schedules or timeframes never have really worked out but this year lines up perfect and what better place than Nelson NZ to get into my first one! “
What are your expectation with the trails in Nelson area?
“I’ve done a little bit of riding up in Nelson, I know every time I’ve been there it’s been amazing. Doing something like this event is going to be the perfect way to see some of the best trails and places in the area and I can’t wait! “
How are you going to race with your team mate, Ed Masters??
“Being able to race this with my team mate Ed means there is never going to be a dull moment, the banter never stops with that guy and as per usual I’d say the plan going into this is there is no plan.”
We now have a pretty cool list of potential winners for this second edition (Matt Fairbrother, Kilian Bron, Sam Blenkinsop, Tuhuto Ariki, Matt Walker, and you + 120 regular racers), what’s your bet for the 2025 winner?
“It’s a stacked field of riders this year and it gets me nervous! I’m sure there are some dark horses out there that if they find their flow state and get the ball rolling well they will be hard to stop!! I’m picking it’s going to be an under the radar hero who wins it.”
Ed Masters
PIVOT
Edward “Eddie” Masters, is a prominent Kiwi professional mountain bike rider known for his dynamic presence in both downhill and enduro disciplines. Starting his racing career in 2004, Eddie turned professional in 2014 and has since achieved significant milestones, including a first-place finish at the 2019 Enduro World Series in Les Orres.
Beyond his racing accomplishments, Eddie is celebrated for his vibrant personality and humor, often sharing satirical content that resonates with the mountain biking community.
Unfortunately, Ed had a bad crash recently and will not be able to race, but he might be around the event !
6 days adventure on the bike
Day 1: The Wairoa Gorge
8 stages // 28km // -2700m // +660m
The NZ MTB Rally 2025 kicks off with a thrilling first day of racing in the deep, rugged valley of the now famous Wairoa Gorge, a former private Bike Park build by a secretive billionaire in the 90’s for his private use. Riders battle through technical singletrack, with steep and gnarly descents, all of them hand-built over several years by a trail crew picked-out from amongst world’s best. The day ends with a cold beer and a well deserved BBQ on the finish line, right after the suspension bridge, while cheering at the last riders coming in !
Day 2: NEW – Silvan and Richmond Hills
5 Stages // -2100m // +450m
Riders who are coming back for the second year in a row will enjoy this new day for sure ! Silvan Forest MTB Park offers an exciting mix of scenic beauty and flowy trails with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline, the experience combines adventure with stunning natural landscapes, and of course, fully shuttled!
We couldn’t also dream of a better place to finish than this really cool amphitheatre with live music and barbecue facing the ocean and the next destination : Golden Bay !
Day 3: Golden Bay – Kaiteriteri
5 stages // 45km // -2650m // +780m
This third day will take the rider into the Abel Tasman National Park, to explore its dense native forest, through slippery and rooty single-tracks! Last stage of the day will take the rider on KarmaKaze-Treehugger, a grippy, technical, fun trail in the Kaiteriteri Bike Park all the way down to the beach of Kaiteriteri for a well deserved cold beer, enjoying the sunset on the next destination, on the other side of the bay : Cable Bay !
Day 4: Cable Bay
6 stages // 26km // -2100m // +750m
Ready to set sail, matey?! Today is boat-day, starting with a 80-minute sunrise boat cruise across to Cable Bay. An awesome experience, with breakfast and coffee served onboard to top off the experience, and if we get lucky maybe even a few dolphins to join the party !
And if you get a bit sea-sick, don’t worry, riding the amazing trails of Cable Bay Adventure park will heal you up in no time! With a perfect mix of flow and gnarly trails, hand-shaped between native and pine-trees forest, this place got everything for an awesome day of racing ! Not to mention the quality of the feed station there !
Day 5: Heli Day // WAKAMARINA
3 stages // -1350m // +475m
Wakamarina trail is a must-do in Nelson area for all back-country adventure lovers ! And the adventure starts with an epic Heli-ride up to a tiny clearing in the middle of a wooded ridge, with no other option out than down an incredible single-tracks making its way between the black beeches, 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 around town, straight from and to the accommodation in the city centre to discover all the amazing trails built and maintain by Nelson MTB Club
Riders race towards the finish line, knowing they’ve conquered one of the toughest MTB challenges in the world. The event concludes with a grand ceremony and party, celebrating both the winners and the incredible achievements of all participants.
