Crankworx Rotorua Returns
Crankworx Rotorua 2026 is set to attract over 700 riders and 10,000 supporters as it returns to New Zealand this week [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crankworx-rotorua-2026-more-than-700-riders-and-10000-supporters-expected/GZA7Y3NORBC5VC4ONQ7Z4WYT7U/]. This event reinforces the global calendar's vibrancy [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crankworx-rotorua-2026-more-than-700-riders-and-10000-supporters-expected/GZA7Y3NORBC5VC4ONQ7Z4WYT7U/].
Crankworx Rotorua, established in 2015, is considered the "soul of Crankworx" and was the first event outside of North America and Europe. Rotorua is a cornerstone of the Crankworx World Tour, blending world-class racing with Māori culture. The festival occurs at Skyline Rotorua on Mount Ngongotahā. The event has received strong government backing. Crankworx will receive $8.1 million from the Major Events Fund to support six Rotorua events from 2022-2027. The cumulative economic impact of Crankworx Rotorua events between 2015 and 2021 was over $25.9 million. Crankworx Rotorua includes events like Downhill, Slopestyle, Dual Slalom, and Pump Track competitions. Kidsworx activities and cultural showcases further enhance the festival experience. The 2026 MTB National Championships will also take place in Rotorua. In 2024, Rotorua hosted the first ever Women's Diamond Level Slopestyle Championship. Rotorua's Jenna Hastings is having a strong start to the 2026 season, winning the New Zealand national title and Crankworx DH series events.
