Riders from across the motu gathered in Rotorua for this pinnacle event to battle out who were to be the cross country XCO and short cross country XCC New Zealand national champions for 2025. Rotorua turned on the sunshine and their famously perfect trail conditions for the racing on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February. We were there to enjoy the action, here’s some of our favourite photos from our favourite riders.
New bike day for Maria Laurie, who was looking very chilled before racing to claim the 2025 U23 National Championship title. Congratulations Maria.
And they are off! Matthew WIlson of Te Miro Mountain Bike Club leading out from the start until Anton Cooper laid down a savage attack.
Josie Wilcox of Nelson Mountain Bike Club committed to the descent. Steeper than it looks and several line options hidden on this piece of Minerals track to choose from.
It’s a Blur, pun intended, obviously. Maria Laurie of Christchurch Single Track Club deep in the Whakarewarewa Forest.
Matthew attacking one of the many XC climbs, this one out of the start finish area. Steeper than it looks.
Josie Wilcox in the world famous Rotorua ferns.
Mike Stylianou, Master 3 Men has no recollection of Matthew Wilson passing him on Minerals track but here’s the evidence.
Matthew Wilson holding the high line on his Blur with ease.
Congratulations! Josie Wilcox, 2nd Place and Marie Laurie 3rd Place behind Olympian Sammie Maxwell, our 2025 XCO NZ National Champion.
!st Place Maria Laurie, 2025 U23 XCO National Champion and 2nd place in the XCC National Championship. Congratulations.
Congratulations Matthew Wilson who secures 2nd place in Elite Men behind Olympian and pro rider Anton Cooper the 2025 XC0 NZ National Championship and the XCC National Championship.
And that’s a wrap on the nationals for another year. Photography | Dominic Blissett @blissfieldphoto. See more of what these riders are up to in 2025 on Instagram | jojo_rides | matthew.mtb | @mariaridesbikes