TRAILBLAZER
The orginal home of our MTB park was the Waipunga and Tait Blocks.
In 2016 we lost 35km of MTB trails to logging in the TAIT Block, and another approx 45km in 2018 when the WAIPUNGA Block closing for logging (a combined total 680ha).
Fortunately, in 2012, Pan Pac had generously allowed us access to the neighbouring 300ha MILL Block, where we built 35km of new trails.
Cyclone Gabrielle destroyed much of the Mill Block trail network in February 2023. The club was already working with Panpac on a plan to move out of the Mill Block and return to the Waipunga and Tait Blocks. Construction of new trails was already underway.
With extensive damage to the Mill Block, the decison was made to focus all our resources on the new trails in the Waipunga and Tait Blocks.
We have made huge progress creating new trails plus a new carpark and hub accessed from Waipunga road. We have also repaired damage to the tracks "out the back" in the Replanted Block. As of April 2024 we have 43km of single track, with more either under construction, or planned as funds and volunteer time allow.
The Trailblazers Team of volunteers is run by the clubs Parks Manager, Ross Mepham, hand building trails. They have a well structured plan, and in-depth knowledge of how to build quality, sustainable and fun trails of all difficulty levels.
Our park is a mix of professional machine built and volunteer hand built tracks.
Professionally built trails can cost around $28 per metre + gst, depending on the type and finish of trail!!!
Building by hand is inexpensive, however VERY slow (about 3 metres per hour – watch how they do it below). Building tracks with the help of machinery is effective and time efficient – but VERY expensive.
We are seeking financial or volunteer support to help ensure the best results, and a great forest to ride in, for everyone.
If you can lend a hand, no matter how often, we would really appreciate hearing from you. Trail building is lots of fun, and very rewarding! By adding you to our email list, we will inform you of upcoming Working Bees, Trail Planning and catch up meetings that you can attend.
Contact us here to become a Trailblazer Volunteer
OPTION 2: DONATE TO OUR TRAIL BUILDING FUND
As mentioned above, paid contractor work is very expensive, but a necessity. This is on top of the thousands of hours of volunteer time.
We desperately need funds to pay for new mountain bike trail construction, trail signage and materials (bridges/retaining walls, etc). Can you please help? Any amount, large or small is much appreciated.
HBMTBC Sponsorship Options:
Thank you for your support!