Stage one upgrades are nearly complete at Whataūpoko Reserve, improving the mountain bike trail network and supporting safer, year-round access for the community.
The Gisborne Mountain Bike Club (GMBC) manages the mountain bike trails at Whataūpoko Reserve, a popular community asset with 14 dedicated cycling trails that attract thousands of cyclists and walkers every year.
A multi-stage project led by GMBC to upgrade the trails follows significant damage caused by cyclones and prolonged wet weather in recent years, leaving parts of the trail network beyond the scope of volunteer maintenance.
Stage one focuses on sustainable upgrades to the Tyburns and Central Skidz trails, which were the most impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.
“The trails are grade two and three, meaning they are on the easier end of the mountain biking spectrum.” says GMBC president, Dan King.
“Upgrades in this stage include new drainage, reshaping berms and forming new jumps on these key trails, all built to the New Zealand Guide to Mountain Bike Trail Design and Construction Guide, 2022. These upgrades have ensured they are wider, safer and easier to learn on, making the point of entry for younger riders much more fun.”
Stage one is on track for completion by the end of February.
“Stage one is about creating accessible, resilient trails that support the health and wellbeing of our entire community,” says Dan.
Trust Tairāwhiti proudly supported the GMBC with $50k towards the stage one upgrades.