Celebrating Community - Backing the Trails Above Waimate

The hills overlooking Waimate are home to a growing network of mountain bike trails that are being used by more people than ever. Behind them is a small but committed group of locals working to develop this community asset, and you can help - without even picking up a tool or donning lycra.

The Whitehorse MTB Riders was incorporated in 2014, with Dave Hanson and Ken Buckingham initiating the vision to build a multi-use trail to the Whitehorse monument. That trail would become the well-known Whitehorse Big Easy.

Whitehorse MTB Riders Paul Buckley and Dave Hanson on the tools.

“There were various mountain bike trails on the hill prior to that, but these were largely destroyed by the big storm of 2014,” says club member Paul Buckley. “Agreement was reached with landowners Ann and Gary Dennison for ongoing use of the land, and we continue to work closely with Ann and Gary and the Point Bush Ecological Restoration Trust to ensure we’re working towards everyone’s shared vision for the area.”

While the trails are well used, the club itself remains small, with membership sitting at around 35 to 40 financial members. “Our membership cost is one of, if not the lowest in the country,” Paul says. “It’s just $15 for an individual and $20 for a family. We’d love to see those membership numbers stronger.”

Membership does more than just help cover costs. “A solid membership base gives us a stronger position for advocacy and funding applications,” Paul says. “Our club is responsible for the maintenance and construction of all the trails on Whitehorse Hill except the Walkway, along with the two river trails in the township.”

Importantly, joining doesn’t come with expectations. “Members can help with working bees, event organisation, or club rides, but there is no obligation to do so. Just the support of a membership is very much appreciated.”

To become a member head to the Whitehorse MTB Riders Inc Facebook page and click the sign-up button at the top of the page. Looking ahead, the club has several projects on the go. “We’ll be continuing with the upgrade of the Whitehorse Big Easy to bring it up to national Grade 2 specification, improving access for a wider range of users,” Paul says. “The Whitehorse Big Easy event returns this year, so we’ll be busy preparing the trails.

We also plan a hand-built alternate line alongside the machine-built top section of the newest track, McLoamin.”

The Whitehorse Big Easy is one of the clubs main fundraisers. It’s on Sunday 29 March this year - so get it in your calendars. There’s an event for every ability, go big or go easy!

A competitor on the river section of the Whitehorse Big Easy event

Story by districtlife.co.nz.