Classic NZ Mtb Rides, 2nd ed., 1993 - MTBers Code of Conduct

MTBers Code of Conduct

Mountain Bikers' Off-Road Code

Respect others

1 Always give way to others. Even if it seems inconvenient, being considerate will foster a positive attitude towards bikers. Stop and move aside if you encounter walkers or horses. Allow others to pass before proceeding.

2 Pass with care. Let others know of your presence well in advance. A greeting will suffice. Being startled will upset even the most tolerant walker.

3 Get permission. Check if permission is required from landowners before heading out. When asking, use the word 'bicycle' rather than 'mountain bike' to avoid confusion with motorbikes. Access to private land is a privilege, not a right. The local mountain bike club (page 258), regional council, or DOC will probably know who owns land in their area.

4 Don't run livestock. Give animals a chance to get out of your way. Always leave farm gates as you find them. If you're riding in a strung-out group, don't assume that riders following you will know to close a gate that you left open for them. Steer clear of farmland during lambing - August to October.

Respect the land

5 Observe the minimum impact code: take only photographs, leave only tyre prints.

6 Track conditions:

Avoid skidding, it lessens your control and damages the track
Avoid delicate vegetation and soft surfaces when wet
Stay on the track

7 Don't litter. If you have room, improve mountain bikers' image by picking up someone else's rubbish.

Respect yourself

8 Control your speed. Your speed should be determined by the terrain and your skill. Remember, there could be a fallen tree, walker, or another rider round any corner.

9 Plan ahead. Check your intended route before you ride to make sure you're not biting off more than you can chew

Let others know where you are heading and when you'll be back
Don't travel long distances alone
Take a first aid kit (including sunblock) and know how to use it
Take warm clothing - be prepared for weather changes
Maintain your bicycle to avoid breakdowns
Take a repair kit
Take food and water
Always take a good map on new rides.

Environmental Care Code

Mountain bikers share the outdoors with many other users. To help protect our natural environment, follow these guidelines.

Protect plants and animals. Treat New Zealand's forests and birds with care and respect. They are unique and often rare.

Bury toilet waste. In areas without toilets, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, and campsites.

Keep streams and lakes clean. When cleaning and washing, take the water and wash well away from the water source. Because soaps and detergents are harmful to water-life, drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered.

Take care with fires. Camping stoves are less harmful to the environment and more efficient than fires. If you do use a fire, keep it small, use only dead wood, and make sure it is out by dousing it and checking the ashes before leaving.

Camp carefully. When camping, leave no trace of your visit.

Consider others. People visit the back country and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who also have a right to enjoy the natural environment.

Respect our cultural heritage. Many places in New Zealand have a spiritual or historical significance. Treat these places with respect.

Toitu te whenua. Leave the land undisturbed.