Rotorua local business Q&A: Planet Bike

Based in the Whakarewarewa Forest are Rotorua mountain bike specialists Planet Bike. Weeks after receiving a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, owners Edd and Lennore Osborne talk about their business.

In a nutshell, what does your business do?

Planet Bike has provided a convenient means by which tourists and locals alike are able to hire bikes, do a mountain bike tour, purchase trail maps, or access information on the forest in general. The provision of a bike mechanic onsite be it for a puncture repair, wheel true or gear and brake adjustment complements the service. Together with great coffee.

What inspired you to set up your current business?

Passion for the sport of mountain biking! Creating an opportunity to share this passion, this sport with others. We are committed to promoting the sport in a responsible manner as part of the Rotorua mountain bike community.

What was your worst business mistake and what did you learn from it?

There are no mistakes ... we experiment. One must have the confidence to dance on a moving carpet. Three words - focus, attitude and belief, coupled with the "power of perseverance".

What do you see as the biggest opportunity for your business in the year ahead?

More of the same ... quality product and innovation that has brought us to the forefront of a very competitive marketplace. Planet Bike has earned a 2013 Certificate of Excellence Award. This prestigious award places Planet Bike in the top performing 10 per cent of businesses worldwide on TripAdvisor. This award is a real tribute to our endeavours.

What is the best thing about being in business in Rotorua?

Rotorua is the mountain bike capital of NZ. Rotorua has got it all. Endless cross country trails, some great free ride jump tracks, a downhill course. Something on offer for everyone. Rideable all year round.

If you could do any job for a day, what would that be?

School principal. Communicate an expectation of success, develop students' belief in their ability to succeed and achieve their potential. I believe sport and outdoor education plays a major role in this.

If you were mayor of Rotorua for one day, what one change would you make?

Free inner city parking, let's breathe life back into the CBD.