Rotorua Canopy Tours Joins the Whaka Whānau

We’re thrilled to welcome Rotorua Canopy Tours where you zipline into an ancient forest as an official partner of the 2025 Whaka 100, bringing with them a shared love for adventure, New Zealand forests, and world-class experiences. 

Last year I rode the 100km event...and thought – we have to get involved in this.

​As New Zealand’s #1 Activity on TripAdvisor in 2024 and the #1 Activity in the South Pacific in 2023, Rotorua Canopy Tours is no stranger to delivering unforgettable forest adventures. From soaring on ziplines through one of the last ancient native forests to helping riders push their limits, Rotorua Canopy Tours is the perfect match for Whaka 100’s energy and spirit.

Paul Button, GM of Rotorua Canopy Tours, didn’t just spot us from afar - he rode the 100km in 2024 and got stuck in. “Last year I rode the 100km event, and while I entered late, I had an incredible time. I saw the quality of the event, the passion of the riders and fans, and thought – we have to get involved in this.” 

This October, the 50km event will proudly carry the Rotorua Canopy Tours name. As Mike Cockin, our Partnership Manager, puts it: “We're stoked to be working with Paul and his team. Our mutual love for Rotorua’s forests and passion for creating genuine, unforgettable experiences is what brought us together.”

This year also sees the launch of the Canopy Flyer - a fast-paced, fun-focused timed downhill section within the main events. Think of it as a chance to let loose, fly through the forest, and maybe even take home a prize. “Everyone’s got to do the uphill, while not everyone is great at it – everyone loves going downhill,” Paul says with a grin.

We’ll be dropping more details soon, including the trail it's on and what's up for grabs.

Rotorua Canopy Tours is the perfect way to top off your Whaka 100 weekend or keep the adventure alive on a training visit. Their award-winning ziplines send you soaring through one of New Zealand’s last ancient native forests - a completely different way to experience Rotorua’s natural wonders. Check out their forest adventures here.

If you're not in yet, check out the Rotorua Canopy Tours 50km. It’s the perfect mix of endurance, climbing and fun, offering a solid challenge for riders wanting to push themselves, but not ready to take on the bucket list Shimano 100km. It's open to both eBike and non-eBike categories.