Video enhances Old Ghost Road
A new safety video aims to help prepare bikers and hikers for the steep, narrow and spectacular Old Ghost Road trail – one of New Zealand’s Great Rides.
The new ride-through safety video was produced by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) in collaboration with the trail’s creator and operator, the Mokihinui-Lyell Backcountry Trust.
The video guides visitors through the amazing trail and is packed with advice on how to get the best experience.
The 85km-long Old Ghost Road is Aotearoa’s longest single-track backcountry trail. It takes riders and trampers along an old goldmining road from Lyell in the Upper Buller Gorge to the Mokihinui River on the coast.
MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said the impressive trail weaved through ancient forests and diverse rugged alpine environments.
The terrain combined with the West Coast’s infamous weather – frequent heavy rain, strong winds and freezing temperatures, even in the height of summer – meant the Old Ghost Road was a true adventure, he said.
The new video highlights the varied conditions mountain bikers can expect, covering important tips including how to pack a balanced bike, a suggested packing list, the common risks and hazards, and key decision-making points and pit stops.
The video complements MSC’s awardwinning Tramping Video Series, providing specific advice for 19 tracks, all produced by Quite Nice Films. Daisley said the cinematography captured the essence of the Old Ghost Road.
‘‘We’re incredibly excited to launch this video and support riders as they tackle what is a truly spectacular, but hazardous, backcountry adventure.’’
Mokihinui-Lyell Backcountry Trust chairperson Phil Rossiter said the video significantly extended the tools and resources available to help people plan their trip.
The trust was set up in 2008 by volunteers who wanted to bring the Old Ghost Road to life, and now having done that, it operates and maintains the trail.
The Old Ghost Road, a Ngā Haerenga NZ Cycle Trail Great Ride, attracted more than 6500 riders and 5000 trampers each year.
‘‘Video is a more powerful way of communicating information than just written text. The ability to combine important safety and preparation details with actual imagery from on the trail is a very helpful step forward.’’