The Kaikoura Three Day Trial ( K3DT ) is iconic in New Zealand and is most likely the longest running motorcycle event in New Zealand . Hosted by the Pioneer Motorcycyle Club ( MNZ Sanctioned ), the K3DT attracts the largest number of Moto Trials competitors hosted anywhere in this beautiful country . The absence of overseas visitors is a huge bonus for us Kiwis fortunate enough to get the time away and explore our own islands . So , after a fun filled Easter weekend at Kerry and Joan Miles ’ property near Rangoria for a reunion of 1970s riders ( read : old bastards ), we headed for the spots that have attracted millions of tourists . Kaikoura has cycle trails , fiords , beaches , museums , historic sites and more . Mixing this in with long lost friends from the Catlins to Blenheim and everywhere in between , it was going to be even more special . Heading south to enjoy the delights of the rugged terrain , the friendly mainlanders and the joys of motorcycling certainly make a southern sojourn worth the effort - so it came as no surprise when I scheduled our travels to front up to the 76th running of the K3DT with my selection of 1970s bikes in tow and the enthusiasm to give it a go .
The 76th Running of the K3DT had trials fans from all over the country converging on Kaikoura .
SETTING UP THE COURSE Three demanding days at three completely different venues certainly tested the allround performance of the 90-plus riders