Note: You will find trip updates from Chris Connolly towards the bottom of this page.

Come June this year, Chris Connolly is setting off on an epic adventure – tackling the legendary Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, all while raising funds for Destination Kāwaroa.

This ultra-endurance bikepacking challenge will test both his physical and mental limits, as he journeys through spectacular wilderness landscapes, meets locals, and experiences the unique flora and fauna of North America.

For Chris, the opportunity to support the continued development of Destination Kāwaroa is close to his heart. A current Rotarian member himself (New Plymouth North Group), Chris is proud to support the Rotary Club of Ngāmotu, who are fundraising for Stage 3 of this much-loved community space. All funds raised will go directly towards Stage 3.

“Destination Kāwaroa is an awesome community facility! It’s fantastic to see families and kids out there enjoying themselves, learning, and growing through play. It’s such a positive space for the community, and it deserves to be supported.” – Chris Connolly

Chris with his granddaughters, Goldie and Delilah, at Destination Kāwaroa.

About the Ride

Chris will begin his journey in Jasper, Canada on June 8th, following the stunning Icefields Parkway to Banff. From there, he will begin the Tour Divide  –  an annual, self-supported, ultra-endurance off-road race stretching from Banff, Canada to the U.S.–Mexico border.

Riders cover approximately 4,400 km (2,745 miles) along the rugged terrain of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, traversing the length of the Rocky Mountains in one of the toughest bikepacking events in the world.

About Destination Kāwaroa

Destination Kāwaroa in New Plymouth is a vibrant, intergenerational play and learning space that blends cultural heritage with modern recreational features. Situated along the Coastal Walkway, it offers water play areas, climbing platforms, a pump track, and educational zones that highlight the Māori lunar calendar, all designed to engage visitors of all ages.

 

Update from Chris Connolly – Received 24th June 2025

Chris left Jasper, Canada on 9th June and rode down the Parkway Highway, experiencing stunning mountain landscapes, snowfields, and close encounters with wildlife, including a wild bear, deer, and mountain goats/sheep. The days have been hot and the nights cold, with a couple of nights spent camping out under the stars.

He arrived in Banff on Wednesday 11th June and departed early on Friday. That day proved particularly challenging, with rough tracks and strong headwinds, though the weather remained favourable. Chris has teamed up with a few fellow riders and is meeting many wonderful, helpful people along the way.

Washing in icy lakes and streams has been part of the adventure. He crossed the USA-Canada border without any issues. However, the past few days have brought colder, wetter conditions, including a thunderstorm in the mountains that left a lasting impact. Due to a wet tent, he spent one night in a sheep wagon and is currently staying in a motel in Lincoln.

Chris is heading to Helena, Montana next and has now travelled over 1,000 km.

See a slide show of images of his trip so far, below: