Last updated June 2026
Te Papa O Te Kauri is Rotorua’s purpose-built BMX racing track located at Waipa Valley on the corner of State Highway 5 and Waipa Mill Road, the main entrance to Whakarewarewa Forest. Opened in December 2019 following a $1.6 million construction project, the track meets UCI international competition standards and has hosted rounds of the UCI BMX Racing World Cup. It ranks among New Zealand’s premier BMX facilities and remains free for public use outside organised club sessions. The Rotorua BMX Club runs regular Thursday evening sessions that welcome riders of all abilities.
Practical Information
| Location | Corner of State Highway 5 and Waipa Mill Road, Waipa Valley, Rotorua |
| Track standard | UCI international competition standard |
| Starting ramps | Two ramps configured for beginner through to elite riders |
| Public access | Free outside club sessions |
| Club sessions | Thursday evenings from 5:30pm (Rotorua BMX Club) |
| Facilities | Toilets, showers, car parking, bike wash station |
| Bike requirement | BMX bike for the racing track; spectators welcome |
About Te Papa O Te Kauri
Te Papa O Te Kauri was purpose-built to UCI specifications, enabling it to host elite international BMX racing events including World Cup rounds. The track incorporates rhythm sections, berms, jumps and technical features typical of high-level competition, with two starting ramps that allow configuration for different rider abilities and age groups.
Outside competition periods the facility serves recreational riders and families. Novice and junior riders typically use the lower ramp while experienced racers tackle the full start hill. The surrounding landscaping creates natural spectator viewing areas with clear sightlines across the entire circuit.
The track forms part of the broader Waipa Valley development at the gateway to Whakarewarewa Forest. Shared amenities including toilets, showers, parking and a bike wash station support both BMX users and mountain bikers entering the forest trails, creating a convenient multi-use cycling hub.
The Track and Rider Experience
Designed for progression, the layout rewards line choice and commitment while remaining accessible to developing riders. Club coaching sessions on Thursday evenings provide structured practice and skill development in a safe, supervised environment. The track is maintained to competition standard year-round.
Waipa Valley Setting and Nearby Facilities
Adjacent to the BMX track is a 1,400 square metre asphalt pump track constructed by Velosolutions, featuring a jump line, berms and rhythm sections suitable for mountain bikes and scooters. These complementary facilities sit at the primary entrance to Whakarewarewa Forest, New Zealand’s busiest mountain bike destination, allowing visitors to combine BMX riding with forest trail exploration.
Events
Te Papa O Te Kauri has hosted major international competitions since opening, most notably rounds of the UCI BMX Racing World Cup. Event schedules are published on the Rotorua BMX Club website and social channels; the track reverts to public use once events conclude.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate having the track largely to themselves on weekdays and note the professional quality of the facility and the welcoming atmosphere for children learning to ride.
Regular users praise the well-maintained surface, flexible starting options and the convenience of shared facilities with the adjacent forest trails, describing it as a genuine asset for Rotorua cycling.
Where to Learn More
Rotorua Lakes Council Waipa Valley Development: project background and facility details for the BMX track and surrounding area.
Rotorua BMX Club: current session times, membership information and event updates.
Rotorua Lakes Council: official local authority information on parks, recreation and cycling facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Rotorua BMX track?
Te Papa O Te Kauri is located at the corner of State Highway 5 and Waipa Mill Road in Waipa Valley, at the main entrance to Whakarewarewa Forest approximately 5 km south of central Rotorua.
Is it free to ride the BMX track?
Yes, the track is free for public use outside Rotorua BMX Club sessions.
What level is the track suitable for?
The track caters for all abilities with two configurable starting ramps, from beginners and juniors through to elite racers, and meets full UCI competition standards.
What kind of bike do I need?
A BMX bike is required for the racing track. The adjacent asphalt pump track is suitable for mountain bikes and scooters.
Are there facilities at the track?
Yes, shared facilities at Waipa Valley include toilets, showers, car parking and a bike wash station that also serve Whakarewarewa Forest mountain bikers.
Does the BMX club run sessions for beginners?
Yes, the Rotorua BMX Club holds open sessions every Thursday evening from 5:30 pm that welcome new riders and provide coaching.
When has the track hosted major events?
The track has hosted rounds of the UCI BMX Racing World Cup, with the first New Zealand edition held in February 2024.
Is the pump track nearby?
Yes, a 1,400 square metre asphalt pump track built by Velosolutions sits adjacent to the BMX facility and is open to the public.
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