The Canopy Flyer: A Downhill Segment for Every Whaka100 Rider
Kia ora, Paul here, the GM at Rotorua Canopy Tours, proud sponsor of the Whaka50 and creator of the Canopy Flyer.
Why we Created the Canopy Flyer (for Whaka100 & Whaka50 riders)
Last year, I rode the Whaka100, and it stuck with me: on the climbs, I was walking while some floated past; on the descents, I watched e-bikers walking, while I flew by. That’s Whaka – every type of rider in one event: climbers, grinders, descenders, e-bikers, juniors, masters.
But there wasn’t a single moment where everyone could have a crack at something fun, competitive, and a little cheeky. So I pitched a simple idea: a short downhill segment inside the Whaka – spectator-friendly, loud, and inclusive. That’s how The Canopy Flyer was born.
Why the Grinder Trail?
We chose Grinder (Redwoods/Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua) because it:
- Appears on all the major Whaka courses (including Whaka50), so you’ll likely ride it anyway
- It’s close enough to the session and practice pre-event
- It is mellow and flowy for most riders, with enough roots, corners, and punch to separate the fast from the fastest
It’s short, close, and spectator-friendly – ideal for heckle zones, split-time yelling, and mates’ banter.
What the Canopy Flyer Is (Race Within the Race)
- Format: Timed downhill segment on Grinder during your Whaka race
- Location: Whakarewarewa / Rotorua Redwoods
- Suitable for: Whaka100, Whaka50, and festival riders across categories
- Vibe: Fast, fun, inclusive – bring the noise
Categories (Space for Everyone to Fly)
We’ve set up divisions so everyone gets a fair shot at a title:
- Under-15s / Juniors
- Elites
- E-Bike
- Over-40s / Masters
Trophies with Mana
These aren’t generic medals – our trophies carry mana. Win one and you’ll have a piece of Whaka lore for the shelf.
Why Canopy Tours Is Behind It?
At Rotorua Canopy Tours, we live for riding in the forest, having fun with mates, and sharing epic experiences – on trail and up in the trees. The Canopy Flyer celebrates that spirit. My goal is simple: make space for everyone to fly.
If you want to fly the forest literally, our guided zipline experiences run in the ancient Ōkoheriki canopy – small-group, conservation-led, and world-class – Our epic adventure
Spectators: Best Bit? You’re Close to the Action
Grinder is perfect for spectators: easy access, tight viewing, big energy. Bring cowbells, cheeky signs, and your loudest encouragement. You’ll help riders squeeze out those final seconds — and smiles.
Quick Facts
- Trail: Grinder, Whakarewarewa / Rotorua Redwoods
- Style: Short, timed downhill segment (“race within the race”)
- Who: Whaka100 & Whaka50 riders; multiple categories incl. e-bike
- Skills: Friendly for most; fast enough to test the best
- Why it exists: A shared, high-energy moment for the whole Whaka community
Canopy Flyer — FAQ
What is the Canopy Flyer at Whaka100?
A timed downhill segment on Grinder (Redwoods/Whakarewarewa, Rotorua) run inside the Whaka race – short, spectator-friendly, and open to multiple categories.
Which Whaka events include it?
It’s designed for riders across Whaka100 and Whaka50
Is there an e-bike category?
Yes – e-bike riders have their own division.
Can juniors and masters enter?
Absolutely – Under-15s and Over-40s/Masters categories are included.
Can I practise the segment?
Yes – Grinder is easy to session pre-event (check local trail conditions and etiquette).
Where can I watch?
Pick a heckle zone along Grinder – it’s compact and close to the action.