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As diverse as Wānaka’s businesses are, there’s a defining thread: a steadfast commitment to sustainability and respect for celebrating whenua, the land we call home.
It all began in 2015, right here on the very land that Bike Glendhu sits. John Wilson – a health wellness aficionado and keen mountain biker – met John McRae, a forward thinking third generation farmer. The two quickly discovered a shared passion for the outdoors and all things sustainable and the vision to create Wānaka’s first purpose-built mountain bike park was born.
Bike Glendhu’s vision came from a desire to see the land utilised in a respectful way, designing pedal-only mountain bike trails that complemented the natural topography of the Wānaka trails, while preserving the Kanuka, wetlands and rivers that characterised it.
Bike Glendhu’s mission is to utilise the land in a way that respects and preserves the natural environment while introducing locals and visitors to the thrilling beauty of Wānaka through an experience they’ll never forget.
Fast-pace applies to more than just the mountain biking at the park. Charlie spends his week building the vision, spending time with business planners, while also developing Glendhu’s sustainability initiatives and growth plan.
This includes building the grassroots rider community in Wānaka, coaching, and shared initiatives with other bike parks, all while welcoming manuwhiri (visitors) and biking newcomers to this natural playground.
Glendhu’s original vision is one they keep firmly in their sights, with regenerative tourism central to their business ethos and day-to-day operations.
‘’Right now, Bike Glendhu gives a percentage of profits to our planting promise”, says Charlie. “We’ve got a goal of planting 30,000 plants by 2025’’
In addition to developing a wetland and expansive carbon-sink, Glendhu are also looking to grow their trail network. With 37km developed of the 50km consented, there are future plans to continue development with the biking community; building aspiration, excitement and a truly sought-after and unparalleled experience for bike enthusiasts of every ability.
Charlie admits that running Bike Glendhu isn’t always a smooth ride. Operating a progressive business, particularly one in a tourism industry that’s been hammered hard by the global pandemic is a bumpy path that’s best navigated, in Charlie’s view, by keeping your eyes on the prize.
“When you get these setbacks, never stop believing in your vision, and why you’re doing it”, he says. “If you’re passionate about it like we are, you need to own it and focus on how rewarding the outcome will be. It knocks the hell out of you, but try to enjoy the journey and keep believing. When others feel and see that, you’ll have the support you need to dig deep and see it through.”
