NZCT Gets Gisborne Mountain Bike Club Back in the Saddle!

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded Gisborne Mountain Bike Club a grant of $15,000 to build an adaptive climbing trail at Whataupoko Reserve, making mountain biking safer and more accessible for riders of all ages and abilities.

Club President Daniel King says, "Whataupoko Reserve trails are a popular community asset, and this grant allows us to make a climbing trail that is easier and more user-friendly for children, adaptive riders, and less experienced cyclists."

The current climbing trails are steep and technically challenging, limiting access for young, older, and adaptive riders. The new trail has been carefully designed to meet the New Zealand Guide to Mountain Bike Trail Design and Construction (2022), ensuring it is safe, functional, and enjoyable.

As a small region with a low socio-economic demographic, funding major projects has been a challenge. The park sits on public reserve land and is free for everyone, while club memberships generate only a fraction of the cost required. Grants like this NZCT one, allow the club to build and maintain trails, keeping the park accessible for the community for years to come.

Brody Bell, a young park rider, says, "I’m stoked the club is building a better climb trail - it means me and my mates get heaps more laps in."

NZCT’s General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges, says, “Mountain biking is exploding in popularity, so we are delighted to help open up new trails for those starting out or less confident. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnership we share with Bar 59 via their host responsible gaming lounge.”