South Island

Behind the sprawling metropolis of Hawea township Nook Road heads to the start of the one and only Grandview Mountain Track. The name says it all.

Deane Parker, Rose Green and Rod Harrhy tackle a variation on the classic Cass-Lagoon backcountry circuit - taking the 'direct line' up Craigieburn Valley ski field.

Damian Stones, his son Zach and former Ground Effect staffer Zane Smith strike postcard-perfect weather on the 'almost complete' Paparoa Track.

The Paparoa Track joins the Old Ghost Road and Heaphy to form a holy trinity of multi-day backcountry rides on the upper West Coast. All are bucket list worthy. Ground Effect hit the Paparoas on opening weekend for our Xmas Party.