Ride New Zealand

Ride New Zealand is a partnership between MTB Retreats and New Zealand Mountain Biking, based in Rotorua on the North Island. Riders warm up in the famous Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods), then tackle the two-day Timber Trail through Pureora Forest Park, described as New Zealand's best two-day mountain bike ride, complete with a stay at Timber Trail Lodge and a crossing of the country's third-longest suspension bridge.

A rest day in Rotorua offers optional extras like ziplining, rafting or hot pools, before a final choice between more Redwoods trails or uplift-assisted riding at Skyline Rotorua. The trip blends backcountry adventure with hot springs, guided groups by ability, and boutique accommodation throughout.

Highlights: Ride the world-famous Redwoods Forest trails in Whakarewarewa Tackle the two-day Timber Trail through Pureora Forest Park, including the Maramataha suspension bridge Overnight at the remote Timber Trail Lodge Soak at Secret Spot Hot Tubs after riding Optional adventure activities (ziplining, rafting, hot pools) on the rest day Choose between hidden Redwoods trails or gondola-assisted downhill at Skyline Rotorua

Surface and terrain:

A mix of purpose-built flow and technical singletrack (Redwoods) and a remote backcountry cross-country route (Timber Trail) through forest, with historic railway tunnels and suspension bridges. The Timber Trail includes close to 750 m of elevation gain per day; e-bikes are available to hire for those two days. Terrain elsewhere is flowing singletrack suited to a full-suspension bike.

Suitable for:

Intermediate-plus women riders; beginners are directed to the operator's Australian-based trips first. Groups split into 2-3 ability levels daily.