There’s something quietly special about gravel riding in New Zealand. The big views, quiet backroads and long valleys that open out like an invitation. The way a good day out can leave you tired, dusty, and somehow renewed.

Edition Zero Gravel (November 29, 2025) captures all of that.

Based out of Waimate in South Canterbury, it’s a one-day ride that was created over a weekend bikepacking with friends. Big country, small towns, and a few hundred riders taking on the challenge, having an adventure and finding community.

This isn’t a race you win so much as one you experience. The course serves up everything from rolling farm country, sub alpine meadows and alpine passes to a historic velodrome finish line. You will meet headwinds, climbs, and moments that ask, why do I do this again? Followed, inevitably, by a sweeping descent or a view that answers the question perfectly.

Adventure

Every Edition Zero story starts with a map and a sense of curiosity. The route winds through remote high-country landscapes where riders have to self-navigate and pace themselves bet   ween the aid stations dotted around the course. It is the kind of riding that reminds you what freedom feels like.

Challenge

It is not easy, and that’s the point. Long climbs, varied weather, and the relentless rolling hills ask for preparation and determination. This is where good choices matter: tyre pressure, nutrition, and yes, a clean, smooth-running drivetrain. That’s why we trust Squirt Chain Lube to stay quiet and efficient through every dusty kilometre. Less mess, more ride.

Community

What really sets Edition Zero apart is the people. Riders from all over Aotearoa come together not for podiums, but for connection. You will see it at the start line, in the mid-ride encouragement, and over a post-ride yarn back at the velodrome. It is the kind of community that keeps the sport grounded and growing.

For us at Squirt Cycling Products, that’s the heart of it. Clean performance that goes the distance. Shared adventure that builds community. And a challenge worth taking on.

So pack your Squirt. Roll into Waimate.

And let the gravel do what it does best: remind you why you fell in love with riding in the first place.

Article by Harry Talbot