Nearly 200 young riders gathered in Tokoroa for the 2026 New Zealand Mini Motocross Nationals on 3–4 October. Across two days at Amisfield MX Track, riders tackled five races in each of eight classes, with Saturday’s rain adding another challenge.

Among the weekend’s results was a first for the event: a dedicated Mini Girls class. Nine-year-old Mia Manston of Milton won three of its five races to take the inaugural title. Unique Niania finished second and Libby Wind third. Manston also raced in the mixed 9–11 years’ 65cc class, finishing ninth and as its highest-placed girl.

Two titles for Jackson Slater

Eight-year-old Jackson Slater of Huntly had a remarkable weekend, winning both the 7–8 years’ 65cc and MX50 titles. He won nine of his ten races across the two classes, including a clean sweep of all five 65cc races.

In the premier 9–11 years’ 65cc class, Greenhithe’s Royce Bush claimed his first national title, ahead of Dante McConnell and Anand Rothe.

A big weekend for small bikes

The South Waikato Motorcycle Club hosted riders aged four to 11, from those finding their feet in the introductory classes to young racers already chasing national titles. Results such as Manston’s and Slater’s deserve celebration, but so does the effort of every child, family, volunteer and club member who helped make the weekend happen.

For girls watching from the sidelines, seeing a Mini Girls class on the programme and a full podium at the end of it matters. We hope it encourages more young riders to give motocross a go.

Do you have a young rider in your family, or did you start riding dirt bikes as a kid?

Sources: Motorcycling New Zealand’s event release and published results.