Rotorua will again host world-class mountain biking event Crankworx next month.

Local patrons are encouraged to make the most of free events on offer.

Crankworx Rotorua runs from March 19 to 24.

A busy schedule includes an extra day of Kidsworx activity at Wattles on Tarawera Road on March 18.

This leads directly into the six-day programme including elite and pro competition and amateur competition. Expo and demo areas will also showcase the latest products in mountain biking.

For two days Rotorua residents can gain free entry to all the action at the Crankworx base at Skyline. Proof of address and ID is required.

Events in Whakarewarewa Forest are also free. They include programmes at Wattles on Monday and Tuesday and stages of the Giant Toa Enduro on the ensuing Friday and Sunday.

Rotorua event director Ariki Tibble says Rotorua is an ideal location because of its trails, community and environment.

'Rotorua has the secret sauce required to host a world class mountain biking event,” Ariki says.

Thousands of competitors, spectators and media from around New Zealand and the world have attended the event.

Ariki says barriers have been removed for locals to check out the week-long events.

With so many evens, Ariki says it's hard to pick just one 'must watch”.

'Every event has its own unique value…they are all epic in their own way.”

Locals who really want to get stuck in could also consider becoming a volunteer, he says.

More than 90 per cent of the Crankworx Rotorua volunteers are locals.

Volunteers are needed across a range of areas.

'Volunteers receive a crew t-shirt, free general admission and lunch on days worked.”