Spectating the Whaka 100 is a fantastic day out, and an incredible way to experience the best of mountain biking while cheering on your favourite athletes.

This guide is for watching the main events in the Whakarewarewa forest, based on the Shimano 100km event map. 

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

For your fun:

• Make as much noise as you can for all riders, not just those you know. Shout names on name plates, bring instruments, speakers, music, and noise makers!
• Some of the suggested points are only accessible by a long walk or ride - plan your route and timing with those you hope to see. Take what you need, including water, food and layers.
• You can access the forest via Waipa MTB Car Park, Tītokorangi Drive, or Te Putake o Tawa. See note about Eight Mile Road on right.
• Take photos and video of your riders and your cheer squad, and tag us in your social posts @whaka100 @whaka100_official #whaka100!

For your safety: 

• Always watch out for other forest users, including runners, walkers, cyclists and horses.
• Do not walk along the trail, and be aware there may be lines other forest users will use outside of the course markings
• Please do not obstruct riders
• Eight Mile Road, beyond Planet Bike and the Mill, is off limits to public vehicles and cycling.
• Please follow instructions from Whaka 100 crew and volunteers.
• Please cross the course as direct as possible, where there is clear view up the trail and no riders are approaching.

WHERE TO WATCH THE EVENTS

Creek Crossing
The infamous creek crossing at the end of Rosebank! Watch riders come down the small hill and choose either to jump, ride through or walk the stream - their final challenge before crossing the finish line.

Pohaturoa Road Crossing
Great place to see riders on their way out into the forest, and their return.

Katore Road Crossing
Cheer riders as they exit the tight native forest downhill of Gunna Gotta, and into Paddy’s run.

Forest Loop Crossings
Ride your bikes on Whakrewarea’s newest Forest Loop to the Box of Birds bridge crossing, and further along, to the technical As You Do climb back up. Note that the Forest Loop is one way, so you’ll need to ride out towards Tarawerea Road.

Red Tank Summit
A great spot to see riders at multiple points in their event, situated at the exits of The Tickler and Hot X Buns, and entrances to Be Rude Not too. Close to additional passings as riders loop back up to take Dragon’s Trail.

Te Putake o Tawa Water Station
Easily accessible from the Te Putake o Tawa car park, this water station sees riders top up their hydration before the climb back up Hill Road. There are also additional facilities at this car park, including refreshments, bike hire and toilets. ​

Frontal Lobotomy entrance
Rider’s will need your encouragement here! Another switchback climb up turning into a steep forest road climb before the rooty and native Tihi o Tawa. 

Top of Frontal Lobotomy / MTB Rotorua Shuttle Drop Off
You can ride, walk or shuttle to the top of the hill to see riders come out of the Frontal Lobotomy climb. They’ll need your encouragement as they continue to climb before dropping down the next descent. 
​
Time Warp trail head
Almost at the end of the Mons Royale Summit Challenge, riders will be grimacing as they finish climbing Moerangi Road, only to continue up on Time Warp. There are great prizes for the fastest in this Challenge segment, so make sure you get them up the rest of that hill! You can also see riders entering Bush Road as they head towards King Fu Walrus. 

Hill Road Water Zone
​The closest hydration zone to the Waipa venue, riders pass through here twice, and also just up the road as they enter Nice Road.

Nursery Road Crossings
A great place to see riders twice quickly. See them exit Creek into Piglet, then walk up the road to see them exit Grinder before making their way up Nursery Road. You may be able to catch them again at Pohaturoa Road as they exit Dipper.