Cross country biking in February

If you’re keen on mountain biking, check out the Ruapehu Express, an oldschool cross country mountain bike event in the central plateau in February.

The 60km event starts at the Tu¯ kino Ski Field Rd and takes riders across army land, Karioi pine forest, Rangataua native forest and farms then on to the finish at the Powderkeg, O¯ hakune. The event is offering more choices for 2019 with the addition of an 80km MTB and Combo relay. Or have a crack at the Express 80, which starts at the Tu¯ kino Ski Field Rd and includes all of the cross-country terrain plus 20km of extra fun. There will be an extra aid station with electrolyte and lollies to help keep your energy up.

For riders keen to do the Express 60km, but who want to share with a friend, try Express Combo. Rider one starts with the 60km riders and then 35km through army land and Karioi Forest to the MTB start.

Rider two completes 25km through Karioi Forest, Rangataua Forest and farmland to O¯ hakune.