Ride private at Wairoa Gorge: five full runs across 70 km of hand-built singletrack with almost 1,000 m of descent each run. This full-day private shuttle from Nelson gives riders flexible timing, expert recommendations, and on-the-spot mechanical support.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low sun filters through tall kanuka as you roll toward the lip of Wairoa Gorge, tires humming, shuttle idling behind you. The Gorge opens into carved singletrack that dives through dense native bush, drops into rock gardens and launches you along sweeping berms. Here gravity does the heavy lifting and the trail asks only for focus and appetite.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate to high cardiovascular fitness recommended — you'll be doing repeated high-adrenaline descents with some pedaling and transfers between runs.
Wildlife
History
The Wairoa network began as a privately funded project with extensive hand-built singletrack, later opening to the wider riding community and quickly gaining international attention.
Conservation
Trail maintenance is ongoing and riders are asked to avoid muddy trails, pack out waste, and stick to marked lines to protect regenerating native bush.
Reserve your spot on the Wairoa Gorge MTB Park Private Shuttle Day today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book private shuttle for flexibility
Private pick-up from Nelson and a waiting driver lets you session features and regroup without watching a timetable.
Tire pressure matters
Run slightly lower pressures for better traction on steep, rooty sections, but avoid too low to prevent pinch flats.
Bring a compact tool kit
Carry a multi-tool, spare tube, pump/CO2 and a quick-link—mechanical support is available but a roadside fix keeps your day moving.
Respect trail conditions
If trails are muddy, skip runs—riding wet tracks damages tread and increases erosion; follow local closures and signage.
Full-face or mountain bike helmet
Protects against high-speed impacts on steep, technical descents.
Hydration pack (2–3L)
Keeps water, tools and layers accessible across long shuttle days.
summer
Spare tube and compact pump/CO2
Quickly repair punctures between runs to maximize riding time.
Flat- or grippy-tread tyres
Choose rubber with bite for roots and rock sections common through the gorge.
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