Rotorua Redwoods: Self-guided mountain bike ride + gear

Summary

Pedal through Rotorua’s redwoods at your own pace, with just the trees for company

You’ll ride beneath towering redwoods in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest on a self-guided mountain bike tour with quality gear included. Expect earthy scents, winding trails for all levels, and friendly local staff to help plan your route. With time to explore at your own pace and a café waiting at the end, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve washed off the mud.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping off the shuttle was that sharp, earthy smell — like rain on woodchips, even though it hadn’t rained in days. The Whakarewarewa Redwoods rise up so tall you almost tip backward looking up. The bike shop crew were already laughing about something when I arrived; one of them, Sam, handed me a helmet and checked the brakes on my rental. “You’ll want to try the Dipper if you’re feeling brave,” he said, grinning. I wasn’t sure if I was, but nodded anyway.

I set off alone — well, except for a few magpies and the occasional whoosh of another rider passing by. The trails twist in ways that make you pay attention; sometimes soft pine needles under the tires, sometimes packed dirt that rattles your bones a bit. There’s this moment where everything goes quiet except for your own breathing and the click of gears. I stopped once just to listen — honestly, it felt like being inside a green cathedral. A couple of locals zipped past and shouted something friendly (I think?), but I was too slow to catch it.

Halfway through I got lost — not badly, just enough to feel slightly ridiculous staring at the map Sam had marked up for me earlier. Found my way back by following some muddy tire tracks (thanks, mystery rider). There’s a little café near the entrance where I ended up after four hours — legs wobbly, hands smelling faintly of metal and pine sap. The barista asked how far I’d gone; I shrugged because honestly, who knows? It’s easy to lose track out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Self-Guided Mountain Bike Ride

• Pick up bike and safety gear
• Plan route with mountain bike staff
• Ride through Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest
• Access bike mechanical support and café

Top questions

How long is the self-guided mountain bike ride in Rotorua?

The ride lasts about 4 hours through Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest.

Is equipment included in the Rotorua Redwoods mountain bike tour?

Yes, use of a quality Giant mountain bike and helmet are included.

Are there trails for beginners in Whakarewarewa Forest?

Yes, there are trails suitable for all abilities throughout the forest.

Does this day trip include support or guidance?

The local staff help plan your route and offer mechanical support onsite.

Is there food available during the Rotorua biking experience?

There is a café onsite at Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a top-quality Giant mountain bike and helmet for four hours of self-guided riding through Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest. Local staff will help fit your gear and suggest routes before you set off. Mechanical support is available onsite if needed, plus there’s a café open year-round (except Christmas Day) when you finish riding.