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 2019 after a $1.6 million build, the track was constructed to UCI international competition standard, has hosted the UCI BMX Racing World Cup, and is considered one of the best BMX facilities in New Zealand. Outside of Rotorua BMX Club sessions, the track is free to use and open to all riders.
Practical Information
| Location | Corner SH5 and Waipa Mill Road, Waipa Valley — at the Whakarewarewa Forest entrance |
| Track standard | UCI international competition standard |
| Start ramps | Two starting ramps — catering for beginner through to elite riders |
| Open to public | Yes — free to ride outside of club sessions |
| Club sessions | Thursday evenings from 5:30pm (Rotorua BMX Club) |
| Cost | Free (outside club sessions) |
| Facilities | Toilets, showers, car parking, bike wash (also serving Whakarewarewa Forest MTB riders) |
| Bike required | BMX bike; spectators welcome |
The Track
Te Papa O Te Kauri was designed and built to meet UCI international competition requirements — the same standard required to host World Cup BMX racing events. The track features the rhythm sections, berms, jumps and technical sequencing typical of elite BMX racing, with two starting ramps that can be configured for different rider abilities. The landscaping around the track provides spectator viewing areas with good sightlines, and when events such as the UCI World Cup are held, the site can accommodate a substantial crowd.
The track is suitable for all levels outside of competition. Younger and newer riders use the lower starting ramp, while experienced racers use the full starting hill. BMX racing rewards commitment and line choice — riders who want to improve can use the facility daily, and the Rotorua BMX Club’s Thursday evening sessions provide structured coaching and race practice.
The Waipa Valley Setting
Te Papa O Te Kauri sits within the broader Waipa Valley development at the entrance to Whakarewarewa Forest — New Zealand’s most-visited mountain bike destination. The same site includes a separate 1,400m² asphalt pump track (built by Velosolutions) with a jump line, berms and rhythm sections — a complementary facility for MTB and general riders. The toilet and shower block, car parking and bike-washing facilities serve both the BMX track and the forest’s mountain bikers, making Waipa Valley a well-equipped multi-use cycling hub.
Events
Te Papa O Te Kauri has hosted major international events since opening, including the UCI BMX Racing World Cup. These events bring elite BMX racers from around the world to Rotorua, and are open to spectators. When events are scheduled, check the Rotorua BMX Club’s Facebook page and the UCI events calendar for details. Outside of events, the track remains available for general use by the public.
“Incredible facility. Took my son for a ride on a weekday and had the whole track to ourselves. It’s properly world-class — you can see why they held a World Cup here.” — Google review
“The track is fantastic — well-maintained, good starting ramp options and great for all levels. A real asset for Rotorua cycling.” — visitor review
Rotorua BMX Club — club information, session times and event updates for Te Papa O Te Kauri.
Rotorua Lakes Council — Waipa Valley Development — background on the Waipa Valley facility and the BMX track development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Rotorua BMX track?
Te Papa O Te Kauri is at the corner of State Highway 5 and Waipa Mill Road, Waipa Valley — the same entrance point as Whakarewarewa Forest. It is approximately 5km south of central Rotorua.
Is it free to ride the BMX track?
Yes — outside of Rotorua BMX Club sessions (Thursday evenings from 5:30pm), the track is free and open to all riders.
What level is the track suitable for?
The track has two starting ramps and was designed to cater for beginner through to elite riders. It is used regularly by club juniors and was built to UCI World Cup standard for elite racing.
What kind of bike do I need?
A BMX bike is required for the racing track. The nearby asphalt pump track at Waipa Valley is also suitable for mountain bikes and scooters.
Are there facilities at the track?
Yes — toilets, showers, car parking and a bike wash station are available at Waipa Valley, shared with the adjacent Whakarewarewa Forest mountain bike trails.
Does the BMX club run sessions for beginners?
Yes — the Rotorua BMX Club holds sessions at the track on Thursday evenings from 5:30pm. These sessions are open to new riders and provide a structured environment to learn BMX racing.
Te Papa O Te Kauri is located at the entrance to Whakarewarewa Forest — see the Dodzy Skills Park guide for the nearby MTB skills area, and the Whaka 100 guide for the annual MTB marathon held in the same forest. All cycling in Rotorua is listed on the Cycling Tracks hub.
