A nationwide film festival celebrating cycling in all its glorious shapes and forms is returning to Tauranga this Monday, February 20, as part of its ninth annual spin through Aotearoa.

The Big Bike Film Night will present an array of international and Kiwi movies specifically selected by Taupō-based curator and ‘film pedlar' Brett Cotter at the Graeme Young Youth Theatre at Tauranga Boys' College on Monday night.

Brett defines the film fest – which this year hits 45 locations and offers 62 screenings from February 15-May 30 – as 'a feast of short films devised and designed for the two-wheel devotee”.

'Each year I set out with just one goal – to bring together the best cycling short films from around the world for our audiences, celebrating the fun, the adventure, and inspiration that bikes enable.

'Our stellar 2023 collection contains 10 mesmerising films that are as varied and diverse as you could hope for. This global programme contains a strong contingent of Kiwi films, including a world premiere, alongside an assortment of international films having their NZ premiere here as well.”

‘Return to Dillon Cone', set and shot in the rugged coastal Kaikōura ranges, will make its world premiere at the festival – complementing a treasure trove of other bike film delights.

The film – created by Canterbury filmmakers Dylan Gerschwitz and Deane Parker – follows a team who have spent five years formulating a dream… an attempt to reach an unridden peak accessible only by river.

The Big Bike Film Night screens at the Graeme Young Youth Theatre, Tauranga Boys' College, on Monday, February 20, from 6.30pm. For ticket information, visit:
www.bigbikefilmnight.nz