A refreshed Ōropi Grove Mountain Bike Park reopens today after being closed for more than a year for tree harvesting.

Tauranga City Council said the park had refreshed tracks and trails, alongside a new riding backdrop.

Since September 2024, mature trees that were due to be harvested have been felled to protect water infrastructure beneath the park and to remove the possibility of falling debris, the council said.

Riders returning to Ōropi Grove will immediately notice a difference in the site, with about 10,000 tonnes of trees harvested, leaving a new riding environment.

Silver birch, Douglas fir, redwood and natives such as mānuka, kānuka and coprosmas have been replanted over recent months and will become more noticeable in the coming years as initial growth takes effect.

Riding tracks and trails were refreshed while the closure was in place, with Mountainbike Tauranga leading the rebuild of the tracks.

Tauriko ward councillor Marten Rozeboom said Ōropi Grove was set for success for the long term.

“We’ve been able to achieve two positive outcomes by using the full park closure for the tree harvest as an opportunity to enhance riding trails that were worn and due for renewal.

“Mountain biking is a popular outdoor activity in the Bay of Plenty, and reopening a refreshed Ōropi Grove really adds to the opportunities locals and visitors have in Tauranga.”

Tracks at Ōropi Grove cover a range of riding abilities, from easy to extreme difficulty, and have entry points at both Ōropi Rd and Joyce Rd.

“We can’t wait to see the rebuilt tracks in use, which will help bedding them in after the rebuild,” Mountainbike Tauranga Trails team leader Bruce Beca said.

“When you ride, have fun but please avoid sliding or skidding as this will accelerate erosion.”

Over the rest of summer, as the conditions will continue to be dry and dusty, Mountainbike Tauranga encouraged early morning and evening rides so riders would get the best experience, and for them to come to the park after but not during any rains.

Directional track signage has been installed on the refreshed tracks to help riders and walkers on their way, and additional signage at the park entrances will be installed later this year.