Crankworx Christchurch 2027

What it is

Crankworx is a global mountain bike festival series, and Christchurch hosts the opening stop of the 2027 Crankworx World Tour. The festival runs from Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 February 2027 on the hillside at Christchurch Adventure Park on the Port Hills, which organisers chose for its varied terrain and new purpose-built tracks.

What to expect

Two events headline the programme:

• Redemption Downhill: elite riders racing against the clock down the Port Hills
• Ōtautahi Slopestyle: an FMBA Gold Level competition with huge jumps and tricks, offering significant points and prize money

Organisers stress that the festival is not only for the pros. Local and up-and-coming riders race alongside national and international names on two purpose-built courses, in local, regional and national categories for men and women. Both headline events are broadcast live on the Crankworx YouTube channel and Pinkbike if you cannot get there.

Who it suits

Mountain bikers, families who like big jumps and noisy crowds, and anyone who wants to see world-class riders from a few metres away.

Tickets

Spectators need a festival pass, available from the official Crankworx site. Riders entered in a race get festival entry for the week as part of their race fee. Kidsworx riders need a festival pass as well as their entry.

Getting there

Christchurch Adventure Park is in Cashmere on the Port Hills, about 15 minutes’ drive from the central city (an estimate). Check the official site closer to the date for parking and shuttle details.

Where to stay

The central city and the southern suburbs near the Port Hills are both handy. Our things to do in Christchurch guide covers where to base yourself.

What to bring

Sturdy shoes for walking on hillside dirt, sunscreen, a hat and water: the Port Hills have little shade in February. Bring a windproof layer too.

Make a trip of it

Christchurch is a good start for a South Island loop: see our 14-day South Island road trip. Riders keen for more can follow the tour north to Crankworx Rotorua in March.