Matakanui Express

The Matakanui Express is new for 2026, starting and finishing in Omakau, this circuit will take you up picturesque sheltered roads to the base of the Dunstan Mountain range, passing through the tiny settlements of Matakanui, Drybread and Lauder. These settlements all date back to the mid 1800's where gold mining settlements were established. This 50km circuit (1x short course=50km's /2x Long course=100 km's) is relatively flat with just a couple of short climbs and total elevation of less than 300 metres, stunning views, sheltered roads and fast gravel will all combine to make the Gravel in Paradise "Matakanui Express" one not to miss!

There are two grades to enter this year, Competition (shorter course) and Championship (longer course), with two category classes in each grade (Ride Strong for the Farming Community and all others) and separate age groups for both males and females. We will not be running an e-bike category this year. Points will be awarded by finishing order, i.e. one point for first, 2 points for second, etc., with final series placings determined by the lowest combined score from your best three events.

• Long Course (Calect Electrical Championship Class): around 100km
• Short Course (Euro Cycles Competitive Class): around 50km
• Farmstrong Ride Strong Class
• Grades for all ages, Male and Female
• Podium medals and heaps of spot prizes

Prizegiving will be held in Omakau race course, free BBQ and podium medals across all grades, categories and age groups, with valuable series points on offer. Ian Fahy from My Ride Dunedin has kindly sponsored a $1,200.00 motorhome getaway experience for one lucky entrant

A current race licence that is affiliated with Cycling New Zealand is a requirement. If you do not hold a licence, you can apply at https://www.cyclingnewzealand.nz/clubs-and-membership/becoming-a-member-2/. We can arrange a licence for the series at a cost of $22.50. We will email you separately to arrange this.

Sign-on will be next to the Omakau School, Race Course Road, Omakau, Central Otago from 9:00 am until 10:15 am, riders briefing, all must attend, at 10:30 am. Shotgun start at 11:00 am.

Full category and age group information is available on the entry form.