shem banbury

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s rugged wilderness, the Kaimanawa Descent is a mountain biking experience like no other. Spanning 23km of awe-inspiring terrain, this downhill trail combines adventure, natural beauty, and world-class engineering to deliver an unforgettable ride for intermediate to advanced riders. In total, riders navigate just under 2500ft (800m) of exhilarating descent, with 430m of climbing sprinkled throughout the journey.

Our journey began early on January 16th, with a scenic drive from Tauranga to the Kaimanawa Forest. After a short safety briefing, we were soaring through the valley in an AS350 helicopter, bikes securely loaded, and spirits sky-high. Our pilot was Thomas Orr – more about him a little later. The ascent revealed the full grandeur of the landscape, and within moments, we were on the Patutu Tops, ready to ride

Starting at 1673m above sea level, the top section of the trail is exposed but stunning. The initial descent through open country is smooth and flowing, despite the sharp volcanic rocks. A few short uphill sections provided a challenge, but the reward was always worth it: endless vistas and a sense of freedom you can only find in the mountains.

Midway through the ride, we navigated a boggy section on a lower flat and reached the halfway point marked by a toilet and a magnificent viewpoint. A brief climb led us to one of the most thrilling parts of the trail—a rocky traverse featuring steep scree slopes and winding tracks that seemed to dance with the mountain’s contours.

The final 10km through the beech forest was a highlight. The trail’s design allowed for a fast, exhilarating ride through towering trees and lush greenery. Crossing a swing bridge near the end was a perfect touch of adventure before the last kilometer—a subtle incline—ushered us back to base.

The Kaimanawa Descent is more than just a bike trail. The first question I asked one of the workers when we got back was ‘How long did it take to make that track? as there is something about the terrain and the track.

It turns out the history of the Kaimanawa Descent is as important as important as the trail itself. Thomas Orr ( the helicopter pilot) and his family have poured their hearts into creating this trail, overcoming immense challenges along the way. After a near-death accident in 2021 that resulted in the amputation of his leg, Thomas didn’t give up. Instead, he doubled down on his dream, regaining his pilot’s license and working tirelessly to complete the project. The Orr family’s partnership with local Māori landowners has ensured that the land is both appreciated and protected. Cultural storytelling panels along the trail and plans for a kiwi recovery program highlight their commitment to sustainability and conservation.

The Kaimanawa Descent offers an unparalleled experience for seasoned riders and passionate adventurers alike. With a mix of alpine and forest terrain, breathtaking views, and a trail designed to flow seamlessly with the landscape, it’s no wonder Thomas Orr calls it one of the best rides in the North Island.