The 2025 edition of the NZ MTB Rally is set to kick off on March 22 for a thrilling six-day adventure across New Zealand’s stunning top-of-the-south region.
The NZ MTB Rally is a week-long enduro-format race that takes riders through New Zealand’s hidden gem—the top-of-the-south region. This area is home to world-class trails nestled within a pristine backcountry, bordered by three national parks.
The event will host 120 international competitors who will follow a circular route starting in Nelson. The rally will showcase a mix of historic tracks and IMBA gold-level bike trails, offering participants a unique challenge.
This race is not just for seasoned pros—amateurs will also take part. The event is as much an adventure as it is a competition, and it features impressive logistics. If a road exists, competitors will be shuttled. For rougher terrain, 4x4s will be used. Helicopters will take riders where no road can be found, and for areas with water, boats will transport participants.
The circular route is specifically designed for the rally, linking historic backcountry trails with purpose-built MTB tracks.
Unlike typical bike parks, the trails around Nelson are mostly hand-built by a passionate local community of over 3,000 MTB enthusiasts.
In short, the NZ MTB Rally is an uplift-assisted enduro race, with 4 to 6 gravity-focused race stages each day. These are connected by scenic backcountry liaisons and uplifts provided by 4x4s, helicopters, and boats. Each day, competitors will experience a new, distinct ride spot from one of three basecamp locations, making it feel like a purposeful journey rather than a simple coach tour between bike parks.
While it is a race, the event is about more than just competition. It’s expected that at least half of the 120 participants will come for the adventure, the exciting trails, and the scenic views, rather than solely focusing on their race times. Many will likely pay little attention to the battle for the podium, although, once on the course, the desire to compete may take over, leaving behind plans to “just take it easy.”
