Head Guide Dan McMullan

Why is Wanaka home for you?

We are tucked away in middle earth here...Surrounded by mountains, lakes and forest. Wanaka is a laid back town with endless outdoor activities. I have enjoyed being part of our mountain biking scene here as it's evolved. Especially over the last few years we have seen more trails being built, more land open for public, an increase in mtb related event, and a tight working community aiming to get Wanaka on the mountain biking map. Why wouldn't I call Wanaka home!

What does mountain biking give you?

Mountain biking gives me freedom. Whether I get to spend a day on the bike or just a quick 10 minute ride, it's usually going to turn that day into a good one...

Where is your favorite place to ride?

Tha's a tough one! Wanaka has got to be one of my favorite locations (obviously!). Depending on the day there is epic cross country riding to be had, long down hill shuttles and dirt jumps in the towns newly developed jump park. The variety difference in Wanaka is so great the problem is you need more than just one bike to do it all!

Where have your travels taken you?

I have mountain biked all over New Zealand. I have also been lucky enough to have spent three summer season's based in Whistler, BC, Canada. Some of my favorite trails were found in Kamloops, Kalona, Golden and Revelstoke, BC. I have also mountain biked in Northern Wales, UK and Queensland, Australia.

Usual ride spot?

Wanaka is great because you can go out for an hour or just as easily stay out riding 'till it's too dark to ride any more. With new trails being built regularly there's always something fun and new to ride. I also like doing roadies to check out new trails around the place.

What do you see for mountain biking in the future?

Bigger and better than ever before! I hope to see a lot more worldwide competitions including slope style events and racing coming down to Oz and NZ. The revolution in technology and design will see the best bikes of today ('gear box equipped' bikes and so on) on standard bikes that you can buy at any shop for dirt-cheap.

What's the best piece of advice you have been given?

Don't be a sheep (a good old kiwi classic)