“In its prime, Moonride was one of the most epic events on the cycling calendar, and it was a huge part of putting Rotorua on the global mountain biking map,” said Mutu.
“For so many riders, it wasn’t about the race, just the good times you had hanging with your mates, riding laps, BBQ one and a few drinks in your tent.”
Bringing back the Moonride had been a goal for many in the cycling community, who saw it as a defining chapter of Rotorua’s mountain biking story, he said.
“The chance to bring it home again is incredibly special, and we’re looking forward to honouring its roots while delivering a refreshed, run and high-quality experience for 2026.”
Entries for the 2026 Cateye Moonride open on December 1 at moonride.co.nz, with organisers encouraging riders to save the date early as interest from past participants and new competitors is already strong.
Moonride event categories:
- 6-Hour Team (2-5 riders) Relay Race
- 6-Hour Solo Race
- 6-Hour Inter-School Trophy Race
- 12-Hour Team (2-5 riders) Relay Race
- 12-Hour Solo Race
- 12-Hour Business House Trophy Race
- 12-Hour Inter-Club Trophy Competition
- Supplied content
