Milford Mountain Classic

It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those up for the challenge the Milford Mountain Classic is likely to be the ride of a lifetime.

The hardy souls who saddle up for the annual challenge are treated to magnificent vistas of Fiordland National Park - an area described as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’. 

Resisting the urge to stop and admire the view could prove the hardest thing about racing through the world-renowned World Heritage Area.

Next event date: TBC 2024
Location: Fiordland
Keen to learn more: teanauevents.co.nz

The Classic is held every February and attracts a wide range of riders who jump at the chance to pedal their way down the chiselled-out wonder that is the Milford Road. 

Options include the 120km Classic all the way from Milford Sound to Te Anau, the Homer Hundred, a 100km ride to Te Anau starting at the Homer Tunnel, or the Eglington Challenge, which clocks up 65km of the breath-taking country before arriving in Te Anau.

As you ride through the beech forest on one of the most iconic highways in the world, the hard work is worth it as riders are rewarded with spectacular scenery.

Find your place in the peloton and enjoy the amazing sense of camaraderie the event provides.

The achievement of conquering the climb to the Homer Tunnel - complemented perfectly by riding through the famous tunnel itself - is something that has to be experienced to be believed.

After the climb comes to the reward of the long spiralling downhills passing roaring mountain streams.

Aid stations are dotted along the route for those all important energy boosts.

The national park eventually gives way to grazing sheep as the finish line and some lakeside thirst quenching beckon.

A warm, welcoming reception greets you as you reach your destination - now it’s time to relax, dip your feet in the lake’s cool water, and debrief as you take in Te Anau’s legendary hospitality.

A breakfast get-together and prizegiving is a memorable way to wrap up a great event - there’s spot prizes aplenty - then it’s time to check out everything else Fiordland has to offer.

Fiordland (Ata Whenua - Shadowlands) is a place of extraordinary scenic beauty. One of New Zealand’s oldest tourism drawcards, this rugged and remote region offers awe-inspiring landscapes and a wide range of recreational activities. It’s a world-class sightseeing destination and a must-do for anyone exploring New Zealand.

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