Help is at hand to pronounce Māori words riders come across on Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride. 

That help comes in the form of a pronunciation video put together by trail partner Jamie Garrod from New Zealand Mountain Biking, and Rangitihi Pene, mana whenua representative (pictured below).

Jamie produces mountain bike videos, as well as guiding on multiple Great Rides. Rangitihi happens to be a renowned linguist. 

“This collaboration has been very fortunate for us,” says trail manager Simon Alefosio-Tuck. 

“Our trail traverses entirely on private Māori land steeped in history, so it’s important riders understand the link it has to the people of the land,” he says. 

“And language is an important part of that connection.”  

A video highlight is the hot tip on pronouncing Whakarewarewa, a tongue twister for most. There's also other tips, like how to pass other riders politely. 

The idea of producing a video came about after requests from riders for guidance and background on names given to sections of the loop. 

One in particular is Te Pikitanga ki Whangapipiro, quite daunting for some to pronounce looking at the sign. But it makes perfect sense once Rangitihi has explained it.

Links to the video are also available on the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop site and on  partner channels - New Zealand Mountain Biking - YouTube; Tūhourangi FB - Facebook; WFL FB - Facebook.

See the best of New Zealand by bike.  Get off the beaten track and ride the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride.