The Mountain bike has a fast start and it will do you well to get into some space. A wonderful winding path out of the park gets you onto the single link track to Campbell’s Mill road. The link is a good climb but the best of us will push hard up here. Campbells mill is a 4WD track with plenty of places to attack and you will have climbed for about 7km by the time you get to the top. If you have time take a stop and enjoy the view. It is worth it. The track then pushes over into the Akatarawas where you will be surrounded by New Zealand bush as you race down Whakatiki. Watch your step here it is fast and the corners can pounce. The far section of the course will split the pack. Small undulations, river crossings and a strong ride up the valley leads to the final climb. Save some energy for this one it can get rocky and steep. Drive your way to the top however and you are set for a glorious ride home down Campbells Mill. The final pièce da résistance is Red Tape, a fast downhill where the brave will make up some good time. The ride home follows Yankee trail with a chance to stretch the legs back into transition.

Once you exit transition you will find 10km of undulating dune bliss. No serious climbs but the constant undulation can make this run quite tricky. Plus look out for the wind on a bad day. The pain will slip away as you enjoy amazing views at every turn. Definitely stop to enjoy the view if you get some time.