Introducing The Huntaway - a brand-new MTB race designed for riders who want to experience this iconic landscape with exclusive access to private high-country stations.
Each farm section will include farm roads (gravel), paddock trails, rocky tracks, and some stream crossings on occasion. This is a true MTB event with approximately 950m elevation gain across the 48km distance.
The start and finish line is on the Village Green in the Lake Tekapo village. You will head through the village and have a short climb until you get above the Tekapo Substation. From here you turn right on to Godley Peaks Rd. You make your way to Lake Alexandrina where you get out on to Balmoral Station, heading alongside the lake for a short distance before turning up hill and across a section of the farm.
Once you get to Braemar Rd you arrive at the Balmoral Café Aid Station. You will be rewarded with a feast before riding on towards the farm buildings - passing the woolshed and heading up on to the hill behind the main Balmoral Station homestead. It would be expected that some people will be pushing their bikes at times (no judgement!). The efforts of getting up the hill are truly rewarded with 360 degree views of the Mackenzie Region, including Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo, and even a glimpse of Aoraki / Mount Cook.
The climb rewards you with a spectacular tabletop summit, where you'll complete a full loop surrounded by panoramic views in every direction. Thanks to exclusive one-day-only access, it's an experience few riders will ever have.
Once you head back downhill and past the farm buildings, you will return to the Balmoral Café Aid Station. This is a great time for a stopover for those that want a rest amidst the incredible views.
The final kilometres are on Braemar Rd before crossing a paddock on Balmoral Station towards the highway. Once you get to the main highway intersection you return on the same trail back to Lake Tekapo that you took at the start of the day, finishing lakeside.
E Bikes are welcome in The Huntaway. There is a bag drop option at the Balmoral Café, allowing a battery change if required.
Exclusive access. Epic views. An unforgettable ride!
