After being closed for more than a year to allow for an essential tree harvest, Ōropi Grove Mountain Bike Park is reopening on Friday, 20 February and offers refreshed tracks and trails alongside a new riding backdrop.
Since September 2024, mature trees that were due to be harvested have been felled to protect water infrastructure located beneath the park and to remove the possibility of falling debris. Riders returning to Ōropi Grove will immediately notice a difference in the site, with approximately 10,000 tonnes of trees harvested leaving a new riding environment. Silver Birch, Douglas Fir, Redwood and natives such as Mānuka, Kānuka, and Coprosma have been replanted over recent months and will become more noticeable in the coming years as initial growth takes effect.
Riding tracks and trails were refreshed while the closure was in place, with Mountainbike Tauranga utilising their expertise to take the lead on the rebuild of the tracks.
Tauriko Ward Councillor Marten Rozeboom says Ōropi Grove is set for success for the long term.
“We’ve been able to achieve two positive outcomes by using the full park closure for the tree harvest as an opportunity to enhance riding trails that were worn and due for renewal,” Councillor Rozeboom says.
“Mountain biking is a popular outdoor activity in the Bay of Plenty, and reopening a refreshed Ōropi Grove really adds to the opportunities locals and visitors have in Tauranga.”
Tracks at Ōropi Grove cover a range of riding abilities, from easy to extreme difficulty, and have entry points at both Ōropi Road and Joyce Road.
Mountainbike Tauranga Trails Team Leader Bruce Beca thanks volunteers for their efforts in the park over the past year and says the club is excited to welcome riders of all levels back to Ōropi Grove.
“We can’t wait to see the rebuilt tracks in use, which will help bedding them in after the rebuild,” Bruce says.
“When you ride, have fun but please avoid sliding or skidding as this will accelerate erosion.”
Over the rest of summer, as the conditions will continue to be dry and dusty, Mountainbike Tauranga encourages early morning and evening rides to get the best experience, and for riders to come to the park after but not during any rains.
Directional track signage has been installed on the reopened tracks to assist riders and walkers on their way, while additional signage at the park entrances will be installed later this year.
More information about Mountainbike Tauranga, including how to join the club, is available at: mtbtauranga.co.nz