Bike events to cycle up enthusiasm

Katikati siblings Ella Royackers, 9, and Beau Royackers, 6, are gearing up for the guided family bike ride around their township on February 21. Photo / Merle Cave

 

Two cycling events in Katikati this month are aimed at spinning the wheels of all types of riders this National Bike Month.

In partnership with Katikati Trails Group and Waitekohekohe Recreational Park, Katch Katikati is hosting the 2026 Katikati Bike Series – on February 21 and 28 – to bring people of all ages and abilities together on their bikes, in the outdoors, for two fun, inclusive adventures.

“We’ve decided to host these two events to celebrate our local environment, promote active and healthy lifestyles, and highlight the ongoing trails work done behind the scenes, that help enhance and expand the region’s trail network,” said event manager Kylie Watkins.

“Events like these help get local people excited about cycling, whether they’re regular riders or just keen to give it a go. They offer a relaxed, welcoming way to connect with the community, learn about the trails, and build confidence on the bike. We invite everyone to come along, spend the morning with us, and enjoy spot prizes for those who register on the day.”

Katikati Bike Series’ first event is a guided family bike ride around Katikati township on Saturday, February 21.

                                Katikati siblings Beau Royackers, 6, and Ella Royackers, 9, are gearing up for the guided family bike ride around their township on February 21. Photo / Merle Cave
Katikati siblings Beau Royackers, 6, and Ella Royackers, 9, are gearing up for the guided family bike ride around their township on February 21. Photo / Merle Cave

Those interested should meet at the Dave Hume Pools carpark, off Carisbrooke St, at 10am to register. A 14km guided urban ride for experienced riders will set off at 10.20am.

At 10.45am a 4km guided urban ride for kids and families of all ages will set off. Entry to both events is a gold coin donation, and a free barbecue will follow each ride’s completion.

Watkins said the Katikati Trails Group is helping to host this event in an effort to show how cycling can be both fun and practical, while encouraging families to spend quality time outdoors together.

“Designed with accessibility in mind, these rides on February 21 will showcase our town’s existing pathways and demonstrate safe, enjoyable cycling routes that families can confidently use in the future.”

Katikati Bike Series’ second event on February 28 is a unique, guided mountain biking adventure at the Waitekohekohe Recreational Park just south of Katikati.

“This event promotes health and wellbeing, highlights the natural beauty of Waitekohekohe Reserve, and strengthens the community’s connection to the stunning Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.”

Those interested should meet at mountain biking carpark at Waitekohekohe Reserve on Thompsons Track.

A kids’ loop will set off at 10.15am. “This is a loop everyone can do together and also can serve as a warm-up for the experienced guided track,” Watkins said.

The experienced guided track will set off at 10.40am. “This is a technical track to the summit.”

Entry both of these events is a gold coin donation too, with a free community barbecue afterwards, providing a relaxed space for participants to connect, celebrate, and learn more about the shared vision of the Katikati Trails Group and Waitekohekohe, Watkins said.

“This will include showcasing completed trails, sharing updates on current projects, and outlining exciting future pathway proposals.

“By hosting these events during National Bike Month, we are not only encouraging community participation and wellbeing but also supporting regional economic growth by inviting visitors to explore Katikati and its trails,” said Watkins.

“Together, these cycling events offer a valuable opportunity to connect people with nature, highlight local achievements, and inspire continued community involvement in the development of the Katikati trail network.”

To find out more about the events, visit Katch Katikati’s Facebook page.

 

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