NZ MTB Rally showcases the region

Day three of the NZ MTB Rally saw the 120 strong field exit Golden Bay and head by boat into the Cable Bay area.

With riders canvassing the Top of the South over six days, boats, helicopter rides and 4x4 shuttles have ferried the racers to all corners of the region, showcasing all it has to offer.

Much like a motorsport rally, the NZ MTB rally’s circular itinerary comprises timed race stages and untimed connecting ‘liaisons’. It follows an original route; sandwiched between three National Parks, taking in a blend of historic backcountry tracks, DOC-managed paths, and purpose built MTB trails.

Day three on Tuesday saw riders head into the Cable Bay Adventure Park for six stages varying from technical singletrack to fast and flowy bike park trails.

Event Director Ali Jamieson says he was excited about the potential of the event in the build up to the race start.

"Nelson is an IMBA-certified gold-level ride centre; one of only six, worldwide. Events like this can see Nelson proudly compete with renowned destinations like Rotorua and Queenstown.

“Our region is well known for its beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, wild mountains, national parks, wineries and breweries and increasingly we are seeing MTBing added to that mix.  

Ali has 20 years of experience running similar events in Europe and alongside an MTB guiding company. He first discovered Nelson by chance when he visited as a tourist in 2013.

“From the moment I set foot in Nelson I knew this place was something very special and could hardly believe that I’d never heard of it before as an MTB destination. I’m beyond excited to finally bring our long-time vision to life in the form of The NZ MTB Rally and to introduce our region to a whole new audience of international cycling enthusiasts from around the world.”

Demand for the 120 starting slots was high, with all spaces selling out within hours of their release last August.

And with 75 per cent of participants travel from outside NZ and all but one participant is visiting from outside of our region, the ability to showcase our natural splendor has been invaluable.

Results are posted live online, with Matt Fairbrother leading the field after yesterday's riding.