MTB & Cycling
Explore our district on two wheels, with the awesome range of tracks that cater for all ages and abilities. Enjoy the network of tracks around Waimate township that are perfect for ebikes and for the more adventurous, get the adrenalin pumping on the thrilling mountain bike tracks at the White Horse. To view the tracks on our interactive map click here.
Waimate is making a name for itself as a destination for mountain bikers, runners and walkers, thanks to our shared use tracks.
The Whitehorse MTB Riders, our local MTB club, are constantly improving the existing tracks and putting in new ones in the Hunters Hills overlooking Waimate. You'll find a mix of gradients, stunning views from the top to reward your efforts, and fast downhills.
You can join the club for social rides and activities, and get involved in track building. Learn more here.
Test yourself, and raise money for charity, by entering The Veterinary Centre Whitehorse Big Easy. Held in April, it’s a popular multi-sport event. You can run it, walk it, or MTB it, with categories for the serious athlete to 1.5km events for small kids.
If you want to get out and try these tracks you can check out the most up to date maps on Trail Forks here.
District Tracks
There are some lesser known, longer rides through farmland that you can access. These will be developed further in the future and include the Meyers Pass Trail and the Pentland Traverse. See attached map.
Taking in the views from the Meyers Pass MTB Trail, Waimate NZ. Photo by Jo Sutherland.
Meyers Pass Trail
Start at Serpentine Valley Road, Waihao Downs; or higher up at Waihaorunga, at the intersections of the Meyers Pass and Pentland Hills Road.
You can extend this ride to the 55km 'Pub to Pub' ride. Start at the Waihao Forks Hotel SH82, and follow the SH travelling the Pentland Hills/Meyers Pass trail onto McHenry's Road, ending at the former Hakataramea Hotel.
If you are after a well-deserved cold refreshment, bike another 3 km to Kurow.
Track distance 40km, or 55km.
Track conditions 60% gravel, 40% tarseal.
Grade 2.
The stunning Waitaki Lakes.
Lake Benmore MTB tracks
The Waitaki Lakes are a great place for all recreational activities, including walking, cycling and mountain biking.
For a 100 kms-plus challenge start in Waimate with the Whitehorse Big Easy MTB tracks, head to Waihao Downs, cycle over to Haka, and then drive the short distance to Benmore for this track.
For a more leisurely ride, drive to Benmore and set off from there.
Cyclists on the A2O at Lake Ohau. Photo Tourism NZ.
Alps to Ocean
This world-famous cycling trail has a small amount of track in Waimate District.
Waimate's Cycling Clubs
Whitehorse MTB Riders
Join the local club in their rides and activities, and get involved with helping build new tracks.
If you want to get involved in mountain biking join the social family ride on a Sunday afternoon once a month.
To stay up to date with activities, events, track conditions and planned maintenance follow the Whitehorse MTB Riders Facebook Page.
Contact: Justin Chittock
Phone: 027 640 5022
Waimate Cycling Club
New members welcome, with all abilities, ages, and bikes catered for in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Over the years the club has produced many champions, with some going on to international honours.
Events - Monday night cycling, Tuesday morning social, some Friday nights at the Victoria Park velodrome, and more.
St Andrews Cycling Club
The St Andrews Cycling Club began in 1925 and continues to have a strong field of riders. With racing beginning on Bluecliffs Road on Thursday nights, all riders are graded into four fields depending on age and experience.
It's a welcoming club that loves encouraging young and new riders to come along and give cycling a go.