Middle Earth

The riding is really fun and as such we plan to ride full days on all days and take advantage. On most (but not all) days the itinerary is flexible, with the option to ride more, or less, in the afternoon, depending on how you feel.

All trails on this trip are purpose-built mountain bike tracks that are generally flowy with berms, rollers and small jumps. Fun for strong intermediates and above level. In the South Island we’ll mostly access using lifts and shuttles and there are few trees so sight lines are exceptional. In Rotorua you can expect super fun fast descents and more exciting features, more small jump lines, berms and some roots in a beautiful forest. The exception is the riding day in Alexandra (South Island) which is looser, rockier and slightly more technical.

25 – 50 kms, 4-6 hours.

No, you can keep your gear at the hotel each night. We do recommend bringing a medium-sized duffle or roller bag, and other smaller bags. A small 6L riding pack or hip-pack is recommended.

We always encourage you to ride well within your limits and to ride conservatively. There is no shame in walking a section of trail that makes you uncomfortable.

On this holiday we spend six nights at a three-star hotel near to central Queenstown and three nights at a motel in Rotorua within walking distance to shops and amenities.

All breakfasts and one dinner.

Queenstown has a vibrant, diverse food scene that punches well above its weight for a small alpine town. It mixes casual iconic street food—like the world-famous Fergburger—with high-end dining, fresh New Zealand lamb and seafood, excellent local cafes, and craft beverages. Rotorua is more typical Kiwi fare, pies, fish and chips and burgers.

Your accommodation will have a laundry service available for a fee. Please inquiry with front desk.

It is imperative when signing up for one of our trips that you are confident that your riding ability matches the required riding ability for the trip, regardless if it’s an eMTB or MTB trip. If you have the required ability level for the trip but little (or no) experience on an eMTB this is fine, our guides will give you tips to help you learn to ride these assist-bikes. They are intuitive and you will be a pro within a few days. Read more about the benefits of eMTBs in one of our Trail Tales.

eMTB’s generally come in two battery sizes, sub-400 Wh and 750 Wh (or above). On our trips we utilise the bigger battery bikes which allow riders to easily ride four to six hours in higher-assist modes. Riders will carry their chargers daily, if needed we will charge batteries over lunch to further ensure that riders do not run out of juice. Note that the bigger battery bikes have greater torque and make the bikes heavier.

As it is with any bike on any ride, a personal bike or rental bike, a short ride or long ride – mechanical issues can, and will, occur. As it has been for 20+ years of running our trips we are aware of this possibility and prepared to deal with issues if needed. We help riders to avoid mechanicals by performing bike checks and with general bike care. Note that mechanicals and breakdowns are at your cost (including potential itinerary interruptions or changes), on rental eMTB’s or personal MTB’s.

We source the best rental bikes available in each region through our partner bike shops. We ensure that rental bikes are inspected, well-maintained and have appropriate tires, brakes and extra parts. We know that quality bikes and components are paramount to a good experience. Note that a rental bike will never be as comfortable as one’s personal bike, riders must expect some adjustment and compromise when riding the rental bikes. For some destinations, there is the option to upgrade to a high-performance eMTB.

Upon registration for your trip you will be asked to input your height, weight (for suspension set up) and preferred frame size. We will then communicate the bike brand, model and specs to you. Flat pedals are included on bikes, if you ride clip pedals, you are required to bring your own pedals. Bikes also include a set of brake pads, tire levers, a multi-tool and tubes. It is suggested to bring your own pump and specific tools. It is also suggested to bring your own saddle for added comfort and related riding gear: helmet, globes, knee pads, eye protection, hydration bag, etc.

In the majority of countries that we run our trips protection insurance is not available. If it is available we will communicate this to you. Riders are 100% responsible for all damages to rental bikes – you must inspect your bike for existing damages (take photos) before the first ride. If damages occur while riding the rental bike we will communicate the details and cost to you upon completion of the trip. Once agreed upon your credit card on file will be used to cover cost of damages from the bike shop where bike was rented from.

eMTBs have four or five assist modes (from eco to turbo). On most days, we ride in the middle level to ensure that we are conserving battery. As on any bike, eMTBs perform best when pedalling at a consistent and relatively fast cadence (70-90 RPMs). They are heavier than regular bikes, which takes some adjustment, as the weight is often low on the bike, which adds stability in loose rocks and increased speeds. Riders must look further ahead when riding e-bikes and change gears well in advance (while light pedalling). With the pedal-assist, there is added stress on the drivetrain, and it is suggested to lower saddle height slightly and move weight forward more than usual on steeper climbing sections. For more information, check out one of our Trail Tales. 

With the exception of a few trips (Treasure Islands and Mediterranean Dreams) we try to avoid mixing e-bikes and acoustic mountain bikes on our trips. However, on private departures, we are able to host a mixed group to help groups ride together. Our policy with mixed groups is that the pace of the ride follows acoustic riders, and e-bikers will have a “cruisier” experience and must be patient and expect to wait at times.

The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). ATM machines are readily available, and credit cards are widely accepted.

Summer in New Zealand is from December through late March with the hottest months being January and February. November and April are also good months to visit and ride. As NZ is in the southern hemisphere the South Island is cooler and the North Island is warmer. As with all mountain environments, weather can change quickly and drastically. Expect temperatures of 20-25 degrees Celsius during the summer months and rain is possible so please bring appropriate clothing for wet weather riding.

Gratuities for your Big Mountain guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership throughout the week, typically riders provide 5-10% of the trip price per individual guest to be divided among your guiding team as a standard. A 15-20% tip is generally expected for good service at restaurants and bars.