The Moonride is set to hit Rotorua on Saturday, May 9. Entries open on Monday. Photo / Tohu Experiences MTB Event Library
The Moonride is set to hit Rotorua on Saturday, May 9. Entries open on Monday. Photo / Tohu Experiences MTB Event Library
One of the former highlights of New Zealand’s mountain biking calendar is making its long-awaited return, with the Cateye Moonride set to relaunch on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Waipa MTB Carpark in Rotorua.
Started in the early 1990s, Moonride became a long-running fixture on the national cycling calendar,drawing thousands of riders and supporters to Rotorua at its peak.
Cateye Moonride in Whakarewarewa Forest.
Photo / Ben Fraser
Known for its unique atmosphere, night-riding energy and festival-style race village, the event has been absent from the local landscape for more than five years.
Event director Takurua Mutu said the 2026 edition would offer 6-hour and 12-hour race formats, allowing solo riders and teams of 2-5 to take on a day and night of riding through Whakarewarewa Forest.
“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.
Cateye Moonride at Waipa. Photo / Stephen Parker
“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.
