The Queenstown Bike Festival begins next week and with it comes one of its star events, the New World Tour de Wakatipu.
Now in its fifth year, the event attracts riders from all over the South Island as well as those just wanting to take the plunge into their first recreational event.
Organisers say the Easter event's course is varied and provides two distances to suit different ability and skill levels.
It begins in the Millbrook area where competitors will descend via the Queenstown Trails to Speargrass Flat Rd, ride through Slope Hill Rd and over Shotover and Domain Rds on to the track that follows the true left bank of the Shotover River.
Riders will cross the restored Shotover bridge before joining the Kawarau River track and crossing the Kawarau River bridge.
They will then endure 1km of highway riding before approaching the Kawarau River Rd down to Chard farm winery, where a barbecue and band await.
This year, entertainment will be by musician Mathurin Molgat and singer Jessie Coutts. There will also be food stalls and wine and beer to cater for the thirsty riders.
Organiser Geoff Hunt this year has introduced a run section from the bottom of the Remarkables to Chard Farm to get an exclusive view along the Kawarau River.
Online entries close on Wednesday, March 27, 5pm. (No entries on the day). $75 a person. $45 a junior (19 years and under). $200 a family pass (2 adults, 2 children under 14). Run option $45 a person.
