Pan Pac MTB Park is your go-to destination for mountain biking near Napier, featuring over 100 km of diverse trails suitable for all skill levels. Just 10 minutes north in Tangoio Forest, it's easy to access with a simple entry permit costing just $10. From beginner-friendly paths to thrilling downhill tracks, you'll find a trail for every adventure. Club members enjoy 24/7 park access and exclusive benefits. To enhance your visit, make sure you check trail conditions and stay safe with proper gear. Discover even more about what awaits you at this incredible biking paradise!
Major Highlights
- Pan Pac MTB Park offers over 100 km of diverse trails, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
- Entry permits are $10 for three weeks, with children under 12 free when accompanied by a permitted adult.
- The park features well-maintained clay and dirt trails, with new trails and features added regularly to enhance the biking experience.
- Club membership provides 24/7 access, discounts on brands, and supports trail development, starting at $30 for individuals under 19.
- Safety is prioritized; all riders must wear approved helmets, and essential gear and pre-ride checks are strongly recommended.
Location and Access
Nestled just 10 minutes north of Napier, Pan Pac MTB Park is easily accessible for mountain biking enthusiasts. Located within the beautiful Pan Pac 'Tangoio' Forest, this park offers a stunning backdrop for your biking adventures.
To visit, you'll need a permit, which costs $10 per person, while kids under 12 can enter for free when accompanied by a permitted adult. If you're a club member, you can access the park 24/7 with your membership.
Parking facilities at the main carpark are quite convenient. Here, you'll find a map board to help you navigate the trails, along with shelter and picnic tables for a quick snack or rest. The carpark allows for easy trail accessibility, ensuring you can hit the trails without hassle.
The park features a substantial area for future trail development, promising even more biking opportunities down the line.
Keep in mind that the current location will be closing in two years due to planned forestry operations, so make the most of your visit while you can. Regular updates about new trails and park news are available through the Hawkes Bay Mountain Bike Club's social media and website.
Trail Varieties
At Pan Pac MTB Park, you'll find a wide range of trail types designed to suit every rider, from beginners to seasoned pros.
With various skill levels catered for, you can challenge yourself on advanced routes or enjoy a gentle ride through the beautiful scenery.
Plus, the park constantly evolves with new features that keep your biking experience fresh and exciting.
Trail Types Overview
Pan Pac MTB Park offers an impressive variety of trail types designed to cater to every mountain biker's needs. With over 100km of purpose-built cross-country trails, you'll find a mix of single-track and wide forestry roads suitable for all skill levels.
If you're looking for adrenaline, the downhill trails, including Horseshoe and Kamikaze, provide steep, technical challenges, while freeride and enduro trails like Hi-Roller promise fast-flowing rides through stunning landscapes.
For families and beginners, the park features Grade 1 trails like Porridge and Rollie, ensuring a comfortable experience for those just starting out. You can also hone your skills at the pump track and dirt jump park, with limestone surfaces perfect for off-road riding.
Trail maintenance is a priority here, ensuring that all paths are well-kept for your safety and enjoyment. Remember to practice rider etiquette, like yielding to others and staying on designated trails, to help preserve this beautiful environment.
No matter your level or preference, Pan Pac MTB Park has the perfect trail waiting for you.
Skill Level Adaptability
Mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels will find a welcoming environment at Pan Pac MTB Park, thanks to its diverse range of trail varieties. With over 100 km of trails, you can choose from Grade 1 trails perfect for novices to Grade 5 routes designed for experienced riders seeking a challenge.
If you're just starting, beginner tips include sticking to the flat, easy trails that provide a smooth introduction to the sport. As you gain confidence, you can explore the park's variety of cross-country, enduro, and downhill tracks. Each trail offers something unique, from gentle rolling paths to steep, demanding descents.
The well-maintained surface, primarily clay and dirt, ensures a fast-flowing ride year-round. For those ready to tackle more advanced techniques, the park's purpose-built downhill and freeride tracks will push your skills.
The interconnected trails and wide forestry roads make it easy to navigate different levels and expand your riding experience. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn or an advanced rider aiming to refine your skills, Pan Pac MTB Park has trails that cater to your needs, ensuring a thrilling mountain biking adventure for everyone.
New Developments and Features
Have you heard about the exciting new developments at the MTB Park? A brand-new 40km trail in the Waipunga Block is about to open, located conveniently between Napier and Taupo. This trail was built with impressive volunteer effort on a shoestring budget, showcasing the community's dedication.
Once completed, the park will boast a total trail length of 80km to 100km, allowing for fantastic trail accessibility.
With over 80km of purpose-built trails, you'll find a variety of options to suit your riding style. Whether you prefer cross-country, freeride, or downhill, there's something for everyone. You can tackle iconic trails like Kamikaze and Grand Traverse, or enjoy gentle rolling paths and technical tracks with steep sections and stunning views of Hawke's Bay.
The park continues to evolve, with ongoing projects like Voltage and Scooby-Doo under construction. Plus, volunteer opportunities abound, enabling you to contribute to the maintenance and expansion of this incredible trail network.
Join in the fun at the official opening events, featuring bike demos, shuttles, and food trucks, and experience everything the MTB Park has to offer!
Trail Conditions
Trail conditions at Pan Pac MTB Park are currently excellent, with 43 kilometers of single-track trails open and ready for riders to explore.
You'll find trails spread across the Waipunga, Replanted, and Tait Blocks, offering a variety of experiences from Grade 2 to Grade 5. While the Mill Block is permanently closed due to damage from Cyclone Gabrielle, ongoing restoration efforts have successfully reopened tracks and introduced new features like the Gabby link track and Mrs Whippy jumps/flow trail.
The park's trails are well-maintained, with regular care from the Hawkes Bay Mountain Bike Club and dedicated volunteers. Most trails are combed with pine needles, which means they're hard, dry, and fast-flowing for your ride.
Currently, the park is very dry, making for perfect biking conditions. However, it's essential to stay updated on trail maintenance and any weather impacts that might arise. Regular updates are available through the club's website and social media, ensuring you're always informed.
With a mix of downhill, cross-country, and freeride tracks, you're bound to find something that suits your level. So gear up and hit the trails!
Club Membership Benefits
Joining the Hawke's Bay Mountain Bike Club offers you a wealth of benefits that enhance your riding experience and support the local biking community.
By becoming a member, you not only enjoy fantastic membership perks but also contribute to community involvement and the development of local trails.
Here's what you can expect:
- Discounts on over 400 brands of bike and outdoor gear through ExpertVoice.com
- 30% off Club Ride products through the membership pro program
- 15% discount on Water-to-Go bottles
- Special member pricing for BikeInsure covering bicycles and eBikes
- Free digital subscription to Mountain Bike Action magazine
Your membership also plays a vital role in the ongoing restoration and development of trails, especially after events like Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023.
You'll gain access to exclusive trails and forest areas, use club facilities, and receive updates on trail status and local events.
Plus, you'll have opportunities for social interaction and volunteering, making it easy to engage with fellow mountain biking enthusiasts while supporting the vibrant Hawke's Bay biking community.
Visitor Information
Before you hit the trails at Pan Pac MTB Park, you'll need to grab a visitor permit if you're not a club member.
It only costs $10 and is valid for three weeks, making it easy to get out and enjoy the over 100km of trails.
The park's conveniently located just 10 minutes north of Napier, so you're never far from an adventure.
Permit Pricing Details
To enjoy the trails at Pan Pac MTB Park, you'll need a permit for entry, and there are several options to choose from based on your needs.
Here's a quick overview of the permit types and membership options available:
- Visitor Permits: $10 per person; valid for 3 weeks.
- Family Group Permits: Discounts available for families.
- Club Membership Permits: Ideal for frequent users; fees start at $30 for under 19s.
- Children's Entry: Free for kids 12 and under with a permitted adult.
- Purchase Locations: Buy permits online or at local bike shops, visitor info centers, or possibly at the park.
Access and Hours
Accessing Pan Pac MTB Park is straightforward, provided you have the appropriate permits. You'll need a valid 3 Week MTB Visitor Permit or be a current club member to ride the trails. Permit acquisition can be done online, at local bike shops, visitor information centers, or the nearby Bayview 4 Square shop.
Remember to carry your permit at all times while in the park, as entry is permit-only. It's crucial to comply with club rules, goals, and landowner instructions during your visit.
The park is open 24/7 for members and visitors with valid permits, so you can ride whenever you want. There are no specific hours of closure, but you can check for park updates and closures on the club's homepage.
Continuous access allows for flexibility, letting you enjoy the extensive network of over 100km of trails at your convenience. For the latest park status, you can also follow social media feeds or visit the club's website.
Just make sure you're adhering to the access regulations to make the most of your experience at Napier's premier mountain biking destination!
Notable Features
One of the standout features of Pan Pac MTB Park is its extensive trail network, offering over 100km of purpose-built cross-country, enduro, and downhill trails.
You'll find a variety of trail challenges, ranging from gentle rolling tracks to technically demanding routes. The elevation climbs up to 290m, rewarding you with stunning scenic views across the Bay.
Here are some notable aspects of the park:
- Diverse Terrain: Enjoy clay and dirt-based trails surrounded by beautiful forests and hilltops.
- Varied Difficulty: Trails are graded from Grade 1 to Grade 6, catering to all skill levels.
- Additional Routes: Explore 40km of forestry roads and 4×4 tracks for a different experience.
- Ongoing Development: New trails are being established in the Waipunga and Tait Blocks.
- Accessibility: Just a 10-minute drive from Napier, with multiple carparks available.
With ongoing maintenance and development efforts, including volunteer support, the park continues to improve, ensuring you have an exceptional mountain biking experience every time you visit.
Nearby Attractions
Just a short ride from Pan Pac MTB Park, you'll discover a wealth of nearby attractions that enhance your outdoor adventure.
Start your exploration at Bluff Hill, where panoramic views of Napier and Hawke's Bay await. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the scenic beauty and snap some photos.
Venture to Te Mata Peak for even more breathtaking vistas and a different perspective of the region.
If you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll, head to the Marine Parade. This seafront promenade is lined with Norfolk Pines and features the lovely Marine Parade Gardens and Sunken Gardens, perfect for a picnic.
Don't miss Napier Beach, where you can enjoy the shingle-and-pebble shoreline.
For a taste of local culture, check out MTG Hawke's Bay, showcasing the area's rich history, or take a tour of the historic Napier Prison.
If you're keen on nature, the Napier Botanical Gardens offers a serene escape with its duck pond and aviary.
With so many local attractions offering stunning views and enriching experiences, you'll find plenty to explore right outside the park!
Events and Competitions
At Pan Pac MTB Park, there's always something exciting happening with upcoming races and local competitions that you won't want to miss.
Whether you're participating or cheering from the sidelines, these events foster community engagement and a shared love for mountain biking.
Stay tuned for the race schedule and get ready to join in on the action!
Upcoming Race Schedule
There's plenty of excitement ahead at Pan Pac MTB Park with a packed schedule of upcoming races and competitions. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a newcomer, it's time to get ready for some thrilling events. Here's what you can look forward to:
- Super-D races happening periodically
- Downhill and cross-country events organized by HBMTBC
- Local and national riders, including professional mountain bikers
- New tracks like Gabby and Mrs Whippy opening soon
- Regular updates posted on the club's social media and website
For those gearing up for the races, proper race preparation is crucial. Make sure to check track status updates to avoid any surprises from closures, especially for the Super-D race when Beam Me Up and Twoman tracks will be temporarily closed.
Competitor highlights will be showcased at each event, celebrating the talent and determination of riders from all backgrounds.
Remember, races are open to both club members and visitors with valid permits, so gather your friends and join in on the action!
Stay tuned to the club's channels for the latest announcements and ensure you don't miss out on the excitement!
Local Riding Competitions
Local riding competitions at Pan Pac MTB Park offer an exciting opportunity for both seasoned bikers and newcomers to showcase their skills and passion for mountain biking. These events draw participants of all ages, from U/19 competitors to family groups, making it a vibrant community affair.
With trails catering to all levels, you can experience the thrill of downhill, cross-country, and enduro races, or test your limits in freeride competitions across diverse terrain.
The competition atmosphere buzzes with energy, as local and international riders come together to challenge themselves on the park's renowned tracks. You'll find plenty of rider camaraderie, sharing tips and encouragement along the way.
Notable competitors, including past NZ National DH champions, elevate the stakes and inspire everyone around them.
Organized by the Hawke's Bay Mountain Bike Club, these events receive tremendous support from the local community, ensuring the trails are well-maintained for all riders.
Keep an eye on social media and the club's website for updates on upcoming competitions. Whether you're participating or cheering from the sidelines, the camaraderie and excitement of local riding competitions at Pan Pac MTB Park create unforgettable experiences.
Community Engagement Activities
The energy and enthusiasm of riding competitions at Pan Pac MTB Park extend into a variety of community engagement activities that bring people together.
These events foster a sense of belonging and promote mountain biking culture, while also supporting trail maintenance and development.
- Trail maintenance days for hands-on involvement
- Youth programs to nurture the next generation of riders
- Social gatherings to strengthen community bonds
- Volunteering opportunities that make a real difference
- Workshops and training sessions to enhance skills
Community outreach is at the heart of these initiatives, and it's essential for keeping the trails in top shape.
After Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, local organizations, including the Napier Probation Department, stepped in to help restore the trails.
Plus, the Hawke's Bay Mountain Bike Club (HBMTBC) plays a vital role in encouraging participation through their regular newsletters and events.
Safety Guidelines
Safety is paramount when mountain biking at Pan Pac MTB Park, and adhering to specific guidelines can make your ride enjoyable and secure.
First and foremost, helmet safety is crucial; ensure your helmet meets the EN1078 standard, and consider a full-face helmet for added protection. Before you hit the trails, check your bike: brakes must work properly, tires should be at least 1.5" wide with no damage, and handlebars must be secure.
Wear essential safety gear, including full-finger gloves and impact-resistant eyewear. Body armor is highly recommended to shield your elbows, wrists, and knees. Don't forget to pack a first-aid kit, especially when riding in remote areas.
Evaluate your skill level and choose trails that match your ability. Always check trail conditions and weather updates before heading out. It's wise to carry a charged phone and some snacks for your ride.
In case of emergencies, familiarize yourself with the park's emergency protocols, and ensure that you have a means to communicate for help if necessary. By following these safety guidelines, you'll set yourself up for a great ride at Pan Pac MTB Park!
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting Pan Pac MTB Park for the first time can be an exhilarating experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. To ensure you have a fantastic ride, keep these tips in mind:
- Get your visitor permit: It's required for entry, costing $10, and can be obtained online or at local shops.
- Choose the right gear: A hardtail mountain bike with front suspension is ideal for beginners. Don't forget your helmet!
- Familiarize yourself with trail options: With trails ranging from Grade 1-5, assess your skill level and pick suitable routes.
- Practice riding etiquette: Always yield to uphill riders, signal your intentions, and be courteous to others on the trails.
- Stay hydrated and fit: Bring plenty of water and prepare physically to tackle the beautiful but challenging terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Bike Rentals Available at Pan Pac MTB Park?
No, there aren't bike rental options directly at the park. You'll need to check local shops for rentals and ensure your bike's ready by reviewing trail conditions before heading out for your ride.
Can I Bring My Dog to the Park?
You can't bring your dog to the park, as park regulations strictly prohibit pets. Unfortunately, there are no dog-friendly trails available, so it's best to leave your furry friend at home during your visit.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?
Oh, you know, riding in a snowstorm sounds like a blast! But really, spring's mild temperatures and drying trails are great. Summer offers dry conditions, while autumn's colors make it stunning. Choose wisely based on seasonal weather and trail conditions!
Are There Restrooms Available on the Trails?
You won't find restrooms along the trails, so plan ahead. While the trails focus on maintenance and riding experiences, restroom cleanliness remains important, ensuring a pleasant visit. Always check available facilities before you head out.
Is There a Shuttle Service for Mountain Bikers?
Yes, there's a shuttle service for mountain bikers. Check the shuttle schedule for timings, and consider these mountain biking tips: grab a pass early, and plan your routes to maximize your riding experience efficiently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pan Pac MTB Park is the perfect spot for both seasoned riders and newcomers. Picture yourself gliding down the lush trails, the wind in your hair as you tackle a thrilling descent. With a variety of trails and a welcoming community, you'll find adventure and camaraderie here. So grab your bike, head to Napier, and experience the rush of mountain biking in this stunning destination. You won't just ride; you'll make memories that last a lifetime.
