You would be hard-pressed to find better mountain bike trails outside of Rotorua.
The extensive network in the Whakarewarewa Forest was named in the world's top eight, which makes mountain biking an essential for our series. If you haven't ridden in the forest then it is easy for you to get started. Many bike shops in the city - and there are plenty here - offer bike hire. There are also two dedicated bike hire companies at the forest itself with Mountain Bike Rotorua and Planet Bike fully set up to get you into the forest.
If you're a complete newbie start off just by exploring the forestry roads and the Grade 2 tracks - Tahi and Dipper are close to the Waipa carpark. If you've experience and skills explore further afield - take the Southstar Shuttle to the top and ride down the likes of Billy T, Huckleberry Hound or the new Corners extension. There is more than 130km of network so you can ride somewhere different, or make up different routes, whenever you go out.
The forest is also a drawcard for mountain biking events - the Rotorua Bike Festival will use the trails and events are held all year round.
Maps can be bought from the Redwood Visitor Centre on Long Mile Rd. Ask at any of the bike shops about what bike would suit you.
