Built by Locals. Enjoyed by Everyone.
Geraldine’s trail story began back in 2006 when a small crew of locals spotted a gap, our town needed more places to ride, walk, explore, and play.
What started as a couple of hand-built paths along the Orari River quickly grew into something bigger.
Over the years, that early mahi turned into a full trail network stretching more than 30km across the Orari River area, linking reserves, rural roads, gullies, and favourite community spots. Those trails became a lifeline for locals: riders, runners, walkers, families, and dog owners alike.
And now we’re entering our biggest chapter yet: a professionally built mountain bike park at Riddell’s Reserve. Five purpose-designed trails, a shared summit path, native planting, and a lookout with views across the town.
A true community asset, built for all of us, by all of us.
Stay & Play in Geraldine
Our Goals
To grow Geraldine into a true biking hub, where world class trails starting just one block from the heart of our town.
We’re custodians of what’s been built before us and builders of what comes next.
Our goal is simple: leave Geraldine better than we found it, and create spaces future generations will be proud of.
Our Values
Community, Stewardship, Adventure, Legacy
We’re all about connecting our community with yours, sharing the town we love with the rest of New Zealand. We want people to have a space to relax or push their limits without anything holding them back.
Whether you’re looking for some family time or trying a new jump, we are making spaces to get you moving and connected with like minded people.
How it Started
Our Story
The story began on the Orari River flats, where a handful of passionate locals and the Geraldine Lions Club came together to carve out the first rideable tracks. That partnership sparked the development of the 30km Orari River network, now one of the most loved off-road areas in South Canterbury.
As interest grew, so did the vision. New trail pockets at Riddell’s Reserve, Pekapeka Lane, and Gale Cutting Road expanded the network, creating a ride experience unique to Geraldine: community-led, nature-focused, and accessible to everyone.
Today, we’re building on that legacy. With the new MTB park underway, Geraldine is evolving into a destination for riders, while staying proudly grounded in the spirit that started it all.
FAQ
Q: What’s happening at Riddell’s Reserve?
Construction is beginning on a professionally built MTB park featuring five downhill trails, a safe shared path to the summit, and a community lookout area with incredible views.
Q: Who’s building the trails?
A professional trail builder, Cam Bissett, is shaping the MTB park. Community fundraising, sponsorship, and volunteer mahi support everything from planting to amenities.
Q: How is the project funded?
Through grants, business sponsorships, donations, Geraldine Lions support, community fundraisers, and local fundraising efforts like the Human Slot Machine at the Geraldine Festival (which raised $2,700 in one day!).
Q: Are the trails only for bikers?
Not at all. Geraldine’s network is shared, walkers, runners, families, horse riders, and dog owners all use the tracks. The new shared path at Riddell’s Reserve is designed for safe access for all ages and abilities.
Q: How can I get involved?
Sponsor, donate, volunteer, or join the committee; there’s a place for everyone to be part of the story.
Working Together for the Future
Bike Geraldine has always been powered by community effort, from the Lions partnership on the Multi Challenge, to maintaining the Orari River tracks, to advocating for safer walking and cycling routes.
Some of our community wins include:
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Advocating for a safe trail connecting Woodbury Road → Bennett Road → Templar Street (now nearing completion).
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Supporting discussions around safer routes through Raukapuka for school-aged riders and walkers.
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Championing the idea of connecting the Waihi River path all the way to Strawberry Place.
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Working with ECan and landowners to keep the Orari River network clear after storms, floods, and fallen trees.
None of this happens without locals stepping in, stepping up, and showing what Geraldine can do together.
Part of the Family
Join the committee
Our committee is a down-to-earth team of locals who care about people, outdoor spaces, and keeping Geraldine’s trail network evolving. If you’re passionate about community projects, teamwork, or simply want to be part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.
Get Involved
Become a Volunteer
You don’t need MTB skills or tools (just good energy). Volunteers help with events, planting, fundraising, admin, and keeping the trail network humming.
No matter your age, ability, or experience, there’s always a way you can support us.
