Dusty Butt

Location

South Island High Country, based from Fairlie in the Mackenzie district.

Accommodation required in Fairlie for Monday 15 February for dinner, registration and briefing; in Alexandra for 16 and 17 February; and back in Fairlie on Thursday 18 February.

Registration meet and greet is at the Gladstone Grand Hotel in Fairlie. A compulsory pre-ride briefing is at 20:00 on Monday evening before the event.

The ride

Three-day adventure ride covering about 1400 km through scenic and remote lower South Island high country, on and off road.

Suitable for both big and small bikes that are well maintained, fully serviced, and road registered. The route includes station access and trails only available during this event period. Riders should expect a mix of scenic riding plus optional challenge sections.

Terrain may include steep, slippery or rough sections, along with stream and river crossings. Optional challenge sections include rough, steep or rutted tracks and multiple stream and river crossings. Riders should be fit and prepared for 10-15 hours riding per day.

Requirements

• Ride with a buddy or group.
• Riders must navigate using a GPS.
• Groups are advised to have at least two riders competent with GPS navigation.
• Bike should be able to cover about 300 km per tank, or carry extra fuel in a NZ standards compliant container.
• At least one rider in each group should carry a comprehensive toolkit and be able to perform basic repairs and maintenance.
• Spare tubes are recommended.
• No official recovery service is provided.

Conditions

Remote high-country environment, from sub-alpine to alpine terrain up to 1700 m. Riders must be prepared for severe weather conditions including rain, wind, cold temperatures, and possible snow, and carry spare warm and waterproof clothing regardless of forecast.

Fees

Entry fee: $425.

Includes:

• Monday night registration and briefing
• Buffet dinner Monday night
• Dusty Butt 2027 T-shirt
• 3 days of riding
• Dusty Butt info and ride pack
• Lucky draw Monday night
• GPS route downloads
• All land access fees and permitting

Notes

Entries are limited to the first 150 riders.

An event checklist will be sent after registration, with further information closer to the event date.