Note from the editor

In the spirit of adventure and unity, the KTM New Zealand Adventure Rallye launched its seventh annual journey, dubbed ‘THREE COASTS.’ This event served as a call to KTM adventure bike enthusiasts from New Zealand and beyond, transforming a thrilling expedition into a unifying experience for riders. Riders like Simon Cudby, a virtuoso behind the lens, and his close friend, the skilled rider Randy Commans, were set to navigate the North Island’s multifaceted terrains. The rally was a manifestation of camaraderie, offering a journey through uncharted trails and the stunning, raw beauty of New Zealand’s coastlines, and in doing so, fostering a deep bond between riders and the KTM brand, crafting a unique and vibrant community of adventure seekers.

Anticipation and Strategy

Equipping for the Journey

Every adventure begins with the anticipation of the unknown, and as I sat at home, my mind wandered to the landscapes of New Zealand, where last year’s rally had left an indelible mark on me. This year, as Randy and I prepared for the KTM New Zealand Adventure Rallye, I knew that expecting the unexpected was key, especially with the notorious fickleness of New Zealand’s weather.

From my previous journey, I remembered the sudden rain showers that could soak you to the bone and the crisp mornings that required layers of insulation. This memory guided my packing strategy. My Alpinestars gear was the first on the list, with the Supertech M10 helmet for its reliable protection and comfort. The Tech 7 enduro boots and Techdura jacket and pants were essentials, adaptable enough for both the chill of the morning and the warmth of the afternoon rides.

Randy and I had lengthy discussions about our experiences from last year, each memory a lesson that informed our choices. We decided on the KTM 690 Enduro R bikes, their reliability and versatility proven on the varied terrains we encountered. Knowing we’d face everything from coastal winds to forest trails, the Giant Loop Mojavi Saddlebags were a must for our gear, offering ample storage without hindering our ride.

The possibility of rain was always at the back of my mind, prompting me to pack waterproof socks to keep my feet dry even when the skies opened up. Separately, I made sure our Cardo Packtalk systems were securely attached to our helmets, essential for maintaining clear communication through whatever conditions we might face. With the FastWay hand guards ready to shield us from the elements and any debris, I felt a sense of preparedness wash over me.

As I looked over my packed gear, a blend of excitement and nostalgia filled me, thinking about the adventures that awaited and the new memories to be made. This rally was a return to a land that offered both challenges and rich rewards, shaping my experiences with its diversity.

Preparing for the Unforgettable

The Night Before the Rally

The eve of the KTM New Zealand Adventure Rallye in New Plymouth was charged with anticipation. As a photographer known for capturing the spirit of motorcycle adventure, I spent the evening poring over the detailed plans provided by the organizers. That night, each of us received a map and itinerary, as precise and clear as a well-crafted photograph, preparing us for the adventure that awaited at dawn.

At the riders’ briefing, Rosie Lalonde’s energy and passion were contagious, perfectly setting the stage for our adventure. Her nightly briefings enriched us with information and inspiration, enhancing the excitement and camaraderie among the riders. As Rosie detailed the route for the next day, discussing the weather, potential breakouts, and the conditions of both wet and dry paths, the adventure before us felt tangible, thrilling.

As the night deepened in New Plymouth, my thoughts were captivated by the rally’s promise. The idea of traversing uncharted territories and private lands filled me with a sense of exclusivity and discovery. The excitement stemmed from knowing we were about to embark on a journey through some of the most stunning and less traveled parts of New Zealand, where each turn and trail pr

Day 1:

Traversing the Taranaki Region

Our rally’s first day began with a loop from New Plymouth, spanning around 233 miles (375 km) on the main route, and with the breakout options, the journey extended to nearly 295 miles (475 km). Randy and I, alongside our fellow riders, ventured through the diverse landscapes of the Taranaki region.

Leaving New Plymouth, the western shoreline’s coastal beauty greeted us, guiding our ride southward towards Urenui. An early breakout route challenged us with the rugged terrains near Robinson’s Ranch, featuring steep inclines and technical paths that challenged our riding abilities.

As we ventured inland, the route wound through dense native bushlands and rolling hills, offering dramatic shifts in the landscape. We rode through the historic Uruti Tunnel and past the Moki Road, known from ‘The Last Samurai’ movie, which provided breathtaking vistas and added thrills to our ride.

“By midday, we reached Taumarunui, where the lunch stop offered much more than a simple pause in our journey. These meals, a core aspect of the rally’s ethos, took place in community hubs like schools and centers, fostering a real connection between us riders and the locals. Each stop was an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and savor the regional cuisine, turning every meal into a memorable experience.

Beyond the enjoyment of the food, these interactions had a deeper purpose. They were a way for the rally and participants like us to contribute positively to the local communities we visited. By engaging with these communities and supporting their local initiatives, we were part of a larger effort, led by KTM and the rally organizers, to nurture community ties and ensure that the rally had a lasting, beneficial impact on the areas we were privileged to explore.

In the afternoon, our path continued east, with the difficulty of the breakout routes increasing. Near Mangakahia Valley and Mohakatino Station, we encountered ‘three chilli’ level challenges, featuring steep, narrow trails through dense bush, adding intensity to our adventure.

Returning to New Plymouth, we had navigated a vast array of terrains, from coastal roads to mountain passes and forest tracks. The day encompassed physical challenges and deepened into a profound experience, immersing us in the stunning natural beauty and fostering connections with the local communities of New Zealand’s western and central landscapes.