That's right: After the best part of two days in the air, I arrive in Aukland at about 10:30am of the 16th of May.

As I've mentioned elsewhere, you can then look forward to yet another Pom clogging your country .

I plan to stay for a full year, and I hope to see as much as I possibly can.

I'll explore Aukland a bit, largely because that's where I land apart from any other reason, as well as Welly & Christchurch cos I hear the riding's good there.

But where else to go?

Things like the 'Rough Guide' are all very well for finding hotels & as a guide to tourist traps, but no use as a guide for MTBing.

What I want all you lucky, lucky people to do then, is to recommend (or threaten me to stay away from ) your corner of New Zealand.

Come on, don't be shy...

When you land go to the Whitcoulls at the airport, they'll hopefully have a copy of the Kennett bros New Zealand MTB Rides, has all the info you could ever want!!!

Also hooking up with us vorbers in the various centres will help :-)

jeremyb wrote:...a copy of the Kennett bros New Zealand MTB Rides...

Is it worth getting then?
I noticed that Ground Effect stock it and I was wondering about ordering it the same time I order a 'body bag' bike bag from 'em.

jeremyb wrote:Also hooking up with us vorbers in the various centres will help

Yeah, but where are you all? Not everyone includes their location in their profile.

I don't know anyone who hasn't got a copy

Most people here seem to be from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch, with some people in other places like Wanaka, Queenstown, Dunedin etc.. I'm sure if you asked people would hook you up

JimB wrote:Is it worth getting then?
I noticed that Ground Effect stock it and I was wondering about ordering it the same time I order a 'body bag' bike bag from 'em.

YES it really is a "must have" - 404 New Zealand MTB rides - wouldn't leave home without it.

big Jim.....I have just slapped in leave so I can pick you up at the airport.....let me know when the flight gets in.......