Spills, thrills and stunning views on Coromandel bike ride

It's challenging, it's fun and the views are stuff of which postcards are made.

The inaugural Colville Connection bike ride on Saturday, March 23, can be covered at cross-country competition speeds or at a more leisurely pace, complete with a picnic stop to take in the views along the 68km route.

Starting at 9 am at Colville School, this mountain-bike track is not for the faint-hearted. It takes in several hill climbs and descents.

Organisers recommend riders train for the event. There will be a number of divisions, with spot prizes and an award for the wackiest costume. Colville is about three hours' drive from Auckland or Hamilton.

Contact: entry forms are available in most bike shops. Ph (021) 648 085

e-mail jim@colvilleconnection.co.nz

For accommodation contact the Coromandel Information Centre, ph (07) 866 8598

Colville Connection

a href="http://www.coromandeltown.co.nz" target="new">Coromandel Town