New Zealand’s largest ever bike event - Natural Selection Bike - will take place today (Saturday February 15).

More than 20 of the world’s best riders were confirmed for Natural Selection Bike in January and four more athletes were added to the line up following last week’s Dream Ticket event qualifier.

A world-class mountain bike course has been completed at the event site Mt Dewar, in Queenstown.

Natural Selection Bike is being supported by the government through its Major Event Fund and will showcase Queenstown Lakes as a world class mountain bike destination.

Today’s event “will be one of the most exciting and progressive mountain bike events globally in 2025”, event director Sophie Luther said.

The action will begin from 10am and it will feature a men’s and women’s division combining the three most dynamic disciplines in mountain biking (Big Mountain Freeride, Slopestyle and Downhill). 

New Zealander Robin Goomes (the Chatham Islands/Rotorua rider who had a breakthrough year in 2024, winning Red Bull Rampage to cement her status as the best female rider on the planet) said she is excited to take on the competition.

Robin Goomes says she can’t wait to arrive on the start line. PHOTO: Paul Foley

“The track is looking amazing, and I can’t wait to get to ride in front of a home crowd,” Robin said. “The athlete lineup is epic so it’s going to be an unreal competition.”

Sophie said the Natural Selection Bike was a not-to-be-missed event. 

“Between the innovative course that blends all aspects of freeriding into one run and the level of riders competing here, this will be a thrilling experience for bikers and non-bikers alike.” 

Gates will open from 7.30am.

Tickets are still available for the event.

Under 12s can attend for free.