Words & Images Supplied
The Mackenzie, brought to you by Devold, is back in 2025. After a successful inaugural event, held in April of this year, the 2025 edition looks to be bigger and better than ever. Set in the stunning Mackenzie Region of the South Island, there are multiple distances to choose from, allowing for a day full of adventure for all levels of experience and fitness.
The Mackenzie race is a resurrection of a past event organised by Peter and Margaret Munro. The ‘Around Lake Tekapo’ bike race attracted up to 1500 competitors back in its day, and saw riders loop the lake early in the winter months. With a new team organising this event, and with the support of the Lake Tekapo community and previous organisers, the event has been reinvented with new course options and an autumn date.
The theme of The Mackenzie is an ode to the history of this awe-inspiring location. In 1855, Scottish shepherd, James Mackenzie, came across this incredible district while trying to hide flocks of sheep that he had rustled with the help of his loyal dog, Friday. He was eventually captured and rumour has it that Friday continued to drive the flocks of sheep—even without his owner! What happened to James Mackenzie after his capture rivals any movie plot. Initially, he managed to escape, walking 100 miles to Lyttelton before being recaptured. Over the next months he escaped multiple times, eventually being put in irons. After finally being sentenced to hard labour for five years, he only served nine months before being pardoned due to an apparent miscarriage of justice. Upon release, James set sail for Australia and that is the last we know of what became of this legendary outlaw.
The iconic dog statue in Lake Tekapo is a tribute to all our working dogs, and sits proudly overlooking the lake. The Mackenzie District is named after James Mackenzie, and The Mackenzie race pays tribute to all the legendary shepherds and farmers that have nurtured this district ever since.
‘The Drover’ is the biggest race on the day and takes you on a journey to two of the most iconic lakes in New Zealand; Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo. The course utilises the unique features of this landscape; the canals that cut through the land, the turquoise hues of the lakes, and the mountain views all around —including New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook. For this day only, you will have access to private high country stations, allowing you the opportunity of a lifetime to cycle your way around this incredible location.
‘The Muster’ is a 92km adventure that is the full loop of Lake Tekapo. This is the most popular event on the day and riders have almost ten hours to ride around the lake. Godley Peaks Station is an absolute highlight with riders enjoying the high country station experience, including the wildlife and farm animals that roam amidst this vast landscape.
‘The Huntaway’ is a shorter loop of the lake, starting on Godley Peaks Station. This is a great option for those not wanting to spend quite as much time on their bikes but still wanting this ‘once in a lifetime’ experience—and with 73km to travel this is still no easy feat and definitely worth bragging rights post-race!
The final two events are out-and-back gravel races, offering competitors a fast ride on the eastern side of Lake Tekapo. Riders can choose between the 78km or 34km courses, and eBikes are welcome to join the gravel and mountain bikes on both of these distances.
In April of this year The Mackenzie saw elite riders tackle the race, alongside first- timers. There were some fast times recorded, including Craig Oliver completing the full loop of Lake Tekapo in 3 hours and 4 minutes. With professional athletes already signed up for the 2025 race, organisers are excited to see what the field looks like on race day.
“It was amazing to see the level of competitors at the event this year,” says event owner and organiser, Kerry Uren. “To see elites on the start line, it definitely added to the excitement when we set them off in the morning.”
But it’s not all about elites at this race. “It’s really important for us to ensure this event caters for everyone,” adds Kerry. “The majority of riders in 2024 were out for an adventure, and soaked up the atmosphere and views throughout the day. It’s pretty special to be able to get access to this area, so that was a definite drawcard for most. I know riders are as grateful as we are for the landowners who allow access for the event.”
Scenic Sports Events ensure competitors are safe whilst out on course, using a mixture of experienced personnel to marshal and specialist water safety teams to assist with the river crossings. Creating a remarkable atmosphere was high on the list of priorities as well, with the aid stations and friendly crew adding to the fun and welcoming vibe. The Musterer’s Rest Aid Station was set up like a café; tables and chairs were available for a rest, while the crew cooked up made-to-order toasted sandwiches, as well as coffee and tea—all included in the entry fee.
“What makes this event so special is the atmosphere,” says Kerry. “There was a real camaraderie out on course with riders offering ‘cramp stop’, supporting each other through the rivers, and even helping fix flat tyres.”
The next event is set for 5th April 2025, and entries have been coming in from all over New Zealand—and the world. With less than six months to go, why not make this event your next autumn race, where you too can have your own #legendarymackenzie adventure to share with your mates for years to come.
