The Raetihi Gutbuster is expected to host hundreds on April 12, 2025.
The Raetihi Gutbuster is expected to host hundreds on April 12, 2025.
The Ride Holidays Raetihi Gutbuster, an annual event coupling fitness with amazing scenery, is back for 2025 and expected to host hundreds.
The event includes the Gutbuster Classic 52km bike ride, 20km Valley Spin bike ride, 21km Waipuna Challenge half marathon and 5km Raetihi Rambler fun run.
The Gutbuster was named for the cardiovascular test that the ride poses, with nearly 1000m of climbing.
However, Mountains to Sea trail champion and event promoter Lynley Twyman believed the difficult ride was worth the effort for the views.
“The 52km ride is a bit more intense but it’s such a beautiful ride,” she said.
“It’s all about getting people out and enjoying life from a bike saddle.”
Bike travel company Ride Holidays, which offers national and international holidays centred around travelling and exploring via bike, is the naming rights sponsor for the event.
It chose to sponsor the event to promote and protect one of the few road-based cycle trails left in New Zealand.
“A big part of their ethos is giving back to the community,” Twyman said.
Ride Holidays spokesman Karl Woolcott said one of the reasons it sponsored the Gutbuster was because it went beyond only the physical activity.
“They’re about building connections - between people, communities and landscapes. The Gutbuster captures the essence of adventure and small-town New Zealand.”
The event had expanded over the past few years since the introduction of the 5km run, Twyman said.
The Raetihi Rambler is suitable for families and young children, and includes the option to participate as a team. Dressing up, chatting and having fun are encouraged for the community-focused run.
Everyone who participates in one of the events will receive a commemorative medal and a bag of fresh local vegetables. There will also be spot prizes and first-place prizes from local businesses.
