This summer, our alpine backcountry became the setting for something pretty special.
In January this year, 27 young wāhine aged 12–18 travelled from across Aotearoa to Waikirikiri Selwyn, gathering at Forest Lodge at the base of Mt Cheeseman to take part in Gritt’s inaugural all-women’s mountain bike camp, set within the stunning Craigieburn Forest Park.

Over three days, the camp brought together riding, learning, mentoring and connection, with the alpine setting providing the perfect environment for confidence, progression and new friendships to grow.

Built on connection

The camp was delivered by Gritt, a Canterbury-based organisation founded by adventure athletes to create pathways into outdoor sport and providing support before stepping onto world stage competitions. 

Six world-class female coaches joined the camp, representing Enduro, Downhill and Cross-Country disciplines. Over three days, riders tackled iconic Craigieburn trails such as Cuckoo Creek, Cheesy DH and Hotdog, with coaching tailored to individual goals from line choice and braking points to building confidence on technical terrain.

Not all about speed

Each day blended riding with shared meals, Q&A sessions on training, nutrition and mindset, and evenings filled with card games, cups of Milo and plenty of laughter. By the final day, it was clear the biggest wins weren’t just on the trails, but in the friendships formed and the confidence that had grown.

The magic of Craigieburn

Craigieburn Forest Park was an easy choice for the Gritt team. The terrain offers everything from wide-open alpine lines to technical beech forest riding – the best combination to challenges riders while building adaptability.

While Selwyn’s mountains are well known for winter snow sports, this camp showed how world-class the riding is when the snow melts.

A partnership built on shared values

This event builds on a five-year partnership between Gritt and Selwyn NZ, grounded in shared goals around youth access to outdoor event participation and community development.

Selwyn.NZ partnership with Gritt helped make the camp accessible and affordable, ensuring that cost wasn’t a barrier for young riders wanting to take part. Other support partners included Inspire Foundation and POC Sports who also played a key role in bringing the camp to life.

At the final prize-giving, awards weren’t handed out for fastest times or biggest features. Instead, they recognised attitude, encouragement, courage and growth 

Looking ahead

By the time the camp wrapped up, tired legs were matched with big smiles. Many participants shared that they’d never experienced anything quite like it. 
From alpine roads to forest lodges, from world-class trails to shared meals around a table, Gritt’s all-women’s mountain bike camp is a reminder that Selwyn’s landscapes shape adventures and futures.