Following last weeks storms in the Bay of Plenty, we have lost access to the Middle Distance event map at Onepu. Significant tree fall has closed the park, blocking tracks as well as creating a major safety hazard with partially fallen trees. This is expected to take some time to clear and would not be sorted prior to the champs.

The planning team has subsequently been flat out sorting an alternative Middle Distance venue that meets NZ Champs status needs. We have been very fortunate in securing access to Tui Ridge, thanks to the flexibility and generosity of the Tui Ridge Management team and owners. Consequently, the Middle Distance event will be held at Tui Ridge, which was previously used at the 2016 and 2019 MTBO Champs (Middle and Sprint). We are currently updating the map and will have new courses planned in the next 2 weeks. 

The change in venue for the Middle has also triggered a change in programme order. We will now be having the Sprint and Long distance events on the same day (Saturday), and the Middle on the Sunday. This does create some time pressures for athletes to get from the Sprint to the Long and complete both in the same day. However the planning team have done an analysis on the timings and these have been tweaked to ensure this is achievable for everyone.

This does mean an early start for the Sprint, with first starts 8.30am. There will be a tight but achievable window for athletes to get from the Sprint to the Long, where first starts will be from 12.30pm.  We ask all athletes to not linger at the Sprint and to be efficient with time getting to the Long event. All changes are recorded in the website and if you have any questions contact peteswanson64@gmail.com. 

Whilst it has been unfortunate to lose Onepu (and all the planning and work that has gone into that), we believe we have pivoted to something that will be equally good or better, offering great courses and quality racing people expect of a NZ Champs. We appreciate people accommodating these changes in their schedule and please assist us by being organised, especially on the Saturday events. The planning team is super excited by all the events, with each promising some fantastic terrain and courses - we look forward to seeing you there! 

We are pleased to announce that entries for the 2026 NZ MTBO Champs are now open HERE.

Come along for a great week of MTBO and socialising around Rotorua.   Early bird entries close 12th April.  Final entries close 10th May.  Any on the day entries will only be at the discretion of the organisers.

Enter early to win!

Be one of the first 50 competitors to enter early and also go in the draw to win an A3 size Autopilot mapboard.  The best mapboard for MTBO and other navigation adventures on a bike.  These mapboards are robust and can fit most handle bar sizes.  Thank you to Andrew McNeill, who sells these mapboards in NZ.