Keeping Wheels Cycling Across the Manawatū
For decades, Bike Manawatū has been facilitating cycling events across the Manawatū. Supported by Manawatū District Council’s Event Fund, the club minimises financial barriers and gives riders of all fitness levels an affordable way to stay active while safely enjoying road cycling events across the Manawatū District.
Founded in 2009 by amalgamation of three cycling clubs, Bike Manawatū is a non-profit organisation led by a board of six volunteers and one secretary. The small but mighty group organises multiple cycling events across the Manawatū District each month, from Halcombe, Aorangi, Glen Oroua to the quieter roads in Kairanga. Their events often attract groups of 30 or more, from children through to older riders, with different courses and grades available to suit a range of fitness levels. This includes the annual national Novice Tour, which celebrated its 53rd event this August and brought junior grade cyclists of all ages from across the country to Halcombe to compete in a time trial, a hill climb and two road races over two days.
As recipients of MDC’s Event Fund, Bike Manawatū use the funding to help cover the cost of traffic management plans for their events across the Manawatū District. Covering these essential costs helps meet safety requirements and keep riders, volunteers and other road users safe while reducing the amount that needs to be recovered through membership and casual attendance fees. This helps Bike Manawatū keep registration fees affordable and minimise barriers to participation.
“Our events are about bringing people together and giving riders of all ages and abilities the chance to get out on their bikes and safely enjoy road cycling events across the Manawatū District”, Bike Manawatū's Secretary Janina Gapper explains.
“Manawatū District Council’s Event Fund supports us to minimise financial barriers and has a positive impact on participation. By helping us keep costs down, more people can join our events, making cycling opportunities more accessible and family friendly.”
Bike Manawatū encourages new members and casual riders to get involved and be updated about their upcoming events:
- Website: https://bikemanawatu.co.nz/
- Or their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BikeManawatu
Manawatū District Council’s Event Fund is currently open for applications from 1 September until 30 September 2026. Review the fund’s eligibility criteria and apply here: Event Fund | Manawatū District Council
Bike Manawatū club event at Aorangi, Feilding with C Grade cyclists.
Bike Manawatū club event at Glen Oroua with D Grade cyclists.
Novice Tour 2026: U17 boy's Road Race.