About the Track Grading System
Make sure you choose a track to match your skills, fitness and the experience you are after. Most tracks are more difficult when wet, avoid riding in the mud and rain. Ride within your limit.
Safety
Use at your own risk
Grade 2 (Easy)
Standard: Mostly flat with some gentle climbs with easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks and potholes. We currently have 7 tracks rated Grade 2 which range from 0.8km to 4km in distance.
Grade 3 (Intermediate)
Standard: Steep slopes and/or avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track and/or with poor traction. There may be exposure at the track’s outside edge. We currently have 2 tracks rated Grade 3 that are 1.4km and 2.2km in distance.
Grade 4 (Advanced)
Standard: A mixture of long, steep climbs, narrow track, poor traction and obstacles that are difficult to avoid or jump over. Generally exposed at the track’s outside edge. Most riders will find some sections easier to walk. At present we have 1 track rated advanced.
Grade 5 (Expert)
Standard: Technically challenging. Giant climbs, narrow track and numerous hazards including dangerous drop-offs, sharp corners and difficult obstacles. Expect walking and possibly bike carrying.
E-BIKE POLICY: PEDAL-ASSIST ONLY!
To keep the trails safe and fair for everyone:
Pedal-assist e-bikes only (motor power less than, or equal to, 300 W)
No throttle-controlled e-bikes (if your bike can move under power without pedalling, it’s not permitted in Waitangi Mountain Bike Park)
No e-bikes over 300 W (This policy follows NZ Transport Agency, DOC and Ngā Haerenda NZ Cycle Trail guidelines.)
Help protect our trails. Ride respectfully, pedal naturally, and enjoy the flow!
Ride within your limits.
This forest is actively logged, please adhere strictly to all road access restrictions.
NO HELMET. NO RIDE.
CELL PHONE
Carry a cell phone for safety, but please note coverage is patchy within the forest. We recommend riding in pairs.
NO SMOKING IN WAITANGI MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
EMERGENCY LOCATION INFORMATION
GPS numbers are located at the bottom of all of the WMBP trail signs. Supply these numbers in the case of an emergency, or get your exact location from the Trailmapp Waitangi Smartphone App.
An Automated Electronic Defibrillator is located in locked box onsite at the carpark, near to the toilet block. Dial 111 for the access code or see Park staff.
Be a Safe Mountain Biker
- Mountain biking has dangers. Proceed at your own risk and ride within your ability.
- Wear an approved cycle helmet and protective clothing.
- Ride in the direction of the track arrows and do not take short cuts or create new lines.
- Stay on roads or designated mountain bike tracks.
- Adhere strictly to all road access restrictions. Some forestry roads are multi-use – beware of forestry vehicles and give way to walkers and horses.
- Be prepared with maps, food, water, clothing, tools and first aid appropriate to the ride you are undertaking. Always plan for the unexpected.
- Do not build new tracks or modify existing tracks. Only official track developers are allowed to perform this work.
- If you need urgent First Aid support call 111. GPS numbers are located at the bottom of all of the WMBP trail signs.
Rules of the trail
The International Mountain Bicycling Association developed the “Rules of the Trail” to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails.
The Forestry Road is shared by many recreational users – horse riders, mountain bikers, walkers and hikers.
SAFE RIDING ETIQUETTE is a must! STOP STAND SPEAK. It is important to keep all users safe and happy in the Forest.
NO SMOKING IN THE MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
Riding Etiquette
Etiquette isn’t just about holding out your pinky when you take afternoon tea; it has practical application on the trail. Even if you develop all the skill and fitness in the world, without proper etiquette, you can be a detriment to the sport. Before we hit the high points of trail etiquette, let’s look at a few reasons why etiquette is important.
Rules Of The Trail
We can fully enjoy the sport and be good trail neighbours at the same time. Even some experienced mountain bikers have never been exposed to proper trail etiquette; for the new rider, they may have no idea there is such a thing. Take the time to share proper trail etiquette with new riders when you can. The single best source of trail etiquette and the basics we should all adhere to is the International Mountain Bike Association.
Below are IMBA’s rules of the trail: six easy steps to good multi-user trail relations:
1. Ride Open Trails
Respect trail and road closures.
2. Leave No Trace
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks.
3. Control Your Bicycle
Ride within your limits.
4. Give Way Appropriately
Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Mountain Bikers should give way to all other trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
5. Plan Ahead
Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding, and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self sufficient – keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
6. Never Scare Animals
Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain).
When mountain bikers encounter horses, they should stop and talk to the rider. If the animal seems anxious consider taking off your helmet and dismounting your mountain bike. Keep talking in a calm voice as all the animals pass you by. The rider will let you know when it is safe to continue.
If a biker finds the need to cross a forest road, they need to slow down ahead of time, get off, stop and look both ways before slowly proceeding. NEVER emerge unannounced or silently from the bush whether on a bike or on foot. Be aware at all times that horse riders and walkers may be using the forest too so be alert at all times.
Additional Guidelines
Of course, not every situation you will encounter fits neatly into one of these six rules, and that’s where a little common sense, and more importantly, the willingness to be the “good guy” comes in, and a “thank you” goes a long way.
A little local knowledge also goes a long way. Take the time to research trails. Take the time to talk to the locals if you’re not familiar with a trail. Our locals love to share their knowledge: they’re rightfully proud of their trails and want you to be impressed with them as well.
Dogs, motorbikes and hunting are prohibited in the Waitangi Endowment Forest.