The countdown is on for Saturday's Mountain to Middlemarch Bike Ride.
The event is expected to put riders through their paces while admiring some of Dunedin's spectacular scenery.
Cr Kate Wilson said the aim of the event was to encourage people to get out of their comfort zones.
''It's about getting out there and trying something different. It's not a race. It's not all easy. If you have to get off your bike and walk, then so be it. We want to give people a different experience.
"Private property owners have allowed access to what is a fantastic view of a different part of Dunedin - right on the edge of the city,'' she said.
It is an area renowned for its climate extremes, so riders need to be prepared.
Cr Wilson said the event proceeds will go towards running costs, maintenance and future upgrades for the Middlemarch Community Pool.
''It is a wonderfully used resource. We need to bring money in from outside the community. We have done considerable upgrades over the last five years. It's getting so much use at the moment so the running costs are substantial,'' she said.
About $70,000 has already been spent on the pool including new chlorinators for more efficient running, and surround and pool resurfacing.
Future upgrades include heating the water to extend the season.
''We want people to come and see this fantastic part of Dunedin city,'' she said.
Course details
Starts at the Rocklands Station covered yards, 520m above sea level. Climb up Old Dunstan Rd to Logan Burn (920m), a distance of about 7km, and along Burgan track with creek crossings which winds down the end of the Rock and Pillars and finishes on the corner of Kidds Rd and Gladbrook Rd on the Strath Taieri Valley floor. Short gravel road section leads to Kelvin Grove, along to the Big Rock, rejoins the tarseal at the top of Browns Rd. Downhill sprint to the finish at the Middlemarch Community Centre.
• The 35km Mountain to Middlemarch Bike Ride costs $40 per person. For $10 per rider, you can be returned to Rocklands Station with your bike. Email mountainbike@middlemarch.co.nz for more information.
