Crankworx Rotorua returns to Skyline Rotorua from Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 March 2027: five days of world-tour mountain biking on the hill above the lake and in the Whakarewarewa Forest. Events range from downhill to slopestyle and dual slalom, with Kidsworx activities, expo booths and cultural showcases. Festival passes are on sale online, and they cost more at the gate.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 March 2027
- Where
- Skyline Rotorua, Fairy Springs Road, and the Whakarewarewa Forest
- Events
- Downhill, slopestyle, dual slalom and participatory races, plus Kidsworx
- Tickets
- Festival passes online all week; gate prices are higher
- Race entrants
- Get festival entry for the week; Kidsworx riders also need a pass
- Refunds for racers
- Full refund minus $15 up to 30 days before registration closes; 50% up to the close
What it is
Crankworx Rotorua is the New Zealand stop of the Crankworx World Tour, one of the biggest names in mountain biking. Organisers describe Rotorua as the “soul of Crankworx” for its mix of world-class riding at Skyline Rotorua, the legendary Whakarewarewa Forest and the integration of tikanga Māori. The 2027 festival runs for five days, from Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 March.
What to expect
The programme mixes elite competition with participatory events. Disciplines run from downhill to slopestyle and dual slalom, with races for amateurs as well as pros. Away from the race tapes there are Kidsworx activities, expo booths and cultural showcases that highlight the connection between the land and the sport.
Events take place on land in the Whakarewarewa and Tikotorangi forests, with access granted by mana whenua including Ngāti Whakaue, Tūhourangi and Ngā Hapū e Toru. Ngāti Waoku and the Rotohokahoka Trust provide land for parking, the Kidsworx arena and the dual slalom course.
Who it suits
Riders of all levels, families (Kidsworx is a highlight) and anyone who wants to watch the world’s best mountain bikers in a town built for a holiday.
Tickets
Anyone not racing needs a festival pass. Passes stay on sale online throughout event week, but gate tickets cost more, so buy ahead. Race entrants get festival entry for the whole week, even on days they are not racing. Kidsworx riders need a pass as well as their race entry. Race entry refunds: all fees minus $15 up to 30 days before registration closes, then 50% up to the close.
Getting there
Skyline Rotorua is on Fairy Springs Road, a few minutes’ drive north-west of central Rotorua. Rotorua has an airport with domestic flights and is about three hours’ drive from Auckland (an estimate).
Where to stay
Book early: Rotorua is busy during Crankworx. Our things to do in Rotorua guide covers where to base yourself.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes for forest and hillside viewing, sun protection, water and a rain jacket: March weather in Rotorua can switch quickly.
Make a trip of it
Ride the trails yourself on a rental bike, then soak in a hot pool. Our things to do in Rotorua guide covers geothermal parks and Māori culture, and our 10-day North Island road trip links Rotorua with the rest of the island.
FAQ
When is Crankworx Rotorua 2027?
Do I need a ticket to watch?
Is there anything for kids?
Where are the events held?
Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
