In the Ruapehu district, our experts at Ohakune's TCB Ski Board and Bike Hire owner Ben Wiggins (pictured right) shares his top tips:

Give your bike a spring health check

If your bike has spent winter sitting in the shed, don’t assume it’s ready to ride. Check your brakes, tyres, chain, gears, suspension and make sure everything is tight and working properly before your first adventure.

Don’t forget your e-bike battery

E-bike batteries don’t love sitting unused for long periods. Charge it up, check that everything is functioning properly and make sure you’ve got enough range for the ride you’re planning.

Spring conditions can change quickly

Wherever you're riding, conditions around Aotearoa New Zealand can go from sunshine to cold wind and rain pretty quickly. Carry an extra layer and a lightweight waterproof jacket even when the day starts out looking perfect.

Expect the trails to be different after winter

Rain, frost, wind and general winter weather can change a trail. Watch for wet roots, slippery timber, fallen branches, soft sections and washouts, and ride to the conditions rather than how you remember the trail from last summer.

Check before you ride

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and current trail conditions. A little bit of planning can save a long trip to discover that conditions aren't suitable.

Give yourself a spring service too!

If you haven't ridden much over winter, don't expect your legs and backside to remember exactly what they were doing last summer. Start with an easier ride, build back into it and enjoy being back on the bike.

Carry the basics

A spare tube or repair kit, pump, multi-tool, water, food and a charged phone can turn a small trailside problem into a quick fix rather than a very long walk.

If you're not sure about your bike...

Ask someone who is. A quick pre-season service can pick up problems before they ruin your first big ride of spring.