1. General Conduct

  1. Play Nice. Keep things simple, safe, and fair. This is serious racing, but respect always comes first.
  2. Riders are expected to race hard without endangering themselves, other competitors, officials, or the public.
  3. Unsportsmanlike behaviour will not be tolerated.


2. Road Conditions & Traffic

  1. All sections of the course are open to normal traffic.
    This includes side roads, driveways, farm accessways, and intersections.
  2. Riders must obey the New Zealand Road Code at all times.
  3. Managed stops: Motor vehicles will not be stopped at intersections. Riders may be required to stop or give way.
  4. Respect other road users. Some motorists may be frustrated by your presence — remain calm and courteous at all times.


3. Riding Rules

  1. Keep left at all times. Ride as far left as practicable.
  2. Riders may ride no more than two abreast wherever possible.
  3. Absolutely no crossing of the centre line.
    This applies at all times, including sprints and chicane areas.
  4. Use road shoulders where available to allow the safe flow of traffic.
  5. No reckless riding. Disobeying the road code or riding dangerously will result in disqualification.


4. Grade Integrity

  1. Riders must race only in their assigned grade.
  2. If you catch another grade or are caught by another grade:
  • Allow them to pass.
  • Do not join or benefit from their race.
  1. Failure to respect grade separation may result in time penalties or disqualification.


5. Course Awareness

  1. Riders must follow the official course at all times.
  2. Key intersections and turns will be marshalled, with 'Orange' arrow signs — treat all marshals with respect.
  3. Courses are on rural Canterbury roads and may include:
  • Grit
  • Cow poo
  • Uneven surfaces
  • Potholes
    Riders must race with caution, particularly through corners.


6. Accidents & Incidents

  1. In the event of an accident:
  • Stop and check on affected riders.
  • Call emergency services (Dial 111) if required.
  • Provide first aid where safe to do so.
  1. Notify the nearest marshal immediately.
  2. Marshals will contact the Race Director as required.


7. Race Briefings & Registration

  1. Pre-race briefings are mandatory.
    Attendance is required before the start of each stage.
  2. Race registration closes 30 minutes before stage start time.
  3. Riders not registered or not briefed may not be permitted to start.


8. Prizegiving

  1. Prizegiving will be held immediately after racing concludes on the final day.
  2. Riders eligible for prizes must be present unless prior arrangements are approved.


9. Acknowledgement of Risk

  1. Road cycling is an inherently dangerous activity.
  2. By entering the Epoch Canterbury Tour, participants acknowledge and accept all risks associated with racing on open roads.


10. Waiver & Liability

  1. Participants agree to release and hold harmless the event organisers, officials, sponsors, partners, and volunteers from any claims arising from participation.
  2. This includes claims related to injury, property damage, or negligence to the fullest extent permitted by law.


11. Personal Responsibility & Insurance

  1. Riders confirm they are physically fit and adequately trained to compete in a multi-day stage race.
  2. Riders are responsible for arranging their own personal insurance.
  3. The organisers are not responsible for personal injury, illness, or damage to equipment.


12. Media & Promotion

  1. By entering the event, riders grant permission for the use of their name, image, and likeness in event-related media, promotion, and coverage without compensation.


13. Event Changes & Conditions

  1. The organisers reserve the right to alter:
  • Course routes
  • Start times
  • Stage formats
  • Event schedules
    due to weather, safety concerns, or legal requirements.
  1. Any changes will be communicated as early as practicable.


14. Prologue Equipment Regulations

The Prologue is a road time trial designed to be simple, fair, and accessible.

  • Road bikes only
    Standard road bikes with drop handlebars are permitted.
  • No time trial bikes
    TT bikes, clip-on aero bars, or non-standard extensions are     not allowed.
  • Standard road helmets only
     No aero / time trial helmets of any kind. Helmets must comply with Cycling New Zealand regulations for road racing.
  • Standard road equipment
    Wheels, frames, and clothing must be consistent with normal road race use.


15. Final Declaration

By submitting an entry, riders confirm that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by these rules and conditions.

Race hard. Race fair. Be safe.