Looking to rent a TT bike or aero road bike for Challenge Wanaka 2026 – Any advice?

Hey everyone,

I am a triathlete from Germany who is going to spend a sabbatical in Australia beginning in March 2026. Before that, I'm planning to travel New Zealand and race Challenge Wanaka on February 21, 2026, and I'm currently trying to figure out the best way to sort out my bike situation.

I usually race with a time trial bike back home (Europe), but I'm wondering:
– Does it make more sense to bring my own bike all the way to New Zealand and take it to Australia afterwards? There will be some in-between-flights...
– Are there any reputable shops or rental services where I could rent a proper TT bike or at least a road bike with aero bars for race day?
– Has anyone here done Challenge Wanaka before and rented locally?
– Does anyone know someone who knows someone who might rent out a decent race-ready setup?

I’d really appreciate any tips, shop recommendations, or general advice on logistics. Happy to hear about your experience if you’ve raced there or traveled internationally with your own bike.

Thanks in advance!