Welcome to the NZ MTB Academy.

Transitioning mountain biking talent into world class performance.

The NZ MTB Academy supports young mountain biking athletes who show dedication and excellence in their sport.

Based in Rotorua, we work with talented youth from across New Zealand who are developing forward, but need support in specific areas to transition into high performance competitors.

NZ MTB Academy mountain bike athlete wearing a helmet and goggles, racing downhill on a dirt track with flags and sponsor banners in the background.

What we do.

We help bridge the gap between amateur and professional athletes - providing the tools, coaching, and resources to get them there.

Tuhoto-Ariki Pene smiling and wearing a black sports jersey and helmet, standing next to a mountain bike at an outdoor biking event with a crowd in the background.

Our athletes.

Meet the up-and-coming stars that make up our performance academy, as well as our inspiring and accomplished alumni.

Sam Thompson smiling and wearing a "Cycling New Zealand MTB National Performance Hub" jersey outdoors.

Our mentors.

The seasoned professionals who have been to the top, and now gift their experience and wisdom to the next generation of athletes.

Sammie Maxwell covered in mud, smiling, wearing a helmet and glasses on top, sporting a cycling jersey in a muddy race setting.

Enabled by Launchpad.

The NZ MTB Academy is enabled by Launchpad, a dynamic hub fostering growth and innovation in the community.

Striving to break barriers and transcend limits, Launchpad provides opportunities for learning, growth and innovation through the NZ MTB Academy, One Day School and UpStart initiatives.