Templates / Bike hire & bike parks
Bike hire & bike parks waiver template.
Free starting-point wording for New Zealand bike hire & bike parks operators. Copy it, or have it live as a digital form in about a minute.
Use this as a digital form, free →Bike hire & riding acknowledgement
Riding off-road and on shared trails carries a real chance of a crash. Please check your bike before you leave and ride trails that match your ability.
The risks
- Falls and crashes causing grazes, fractures, head injury or more serious harm.
- Collisions with other riders, walkers, vehicles, trees and trail features.
- Mechanical problems while riding, and changing weather and trail conditions.
The rules
- A fastened helmet must be worn whenever you are riding.
- Check brakes, tyres and fit before you leave, and tell us straight away if something is not right.
- Ride within your ability, obey trail grades and signs, and give way as posted.
- You are responsible for the hired bike and will be charged for loss, or damage beyond normal wear.
Acknowledgement
- I have read and understood the risks and rules above, and I have had the chance to ask questions.
- I am taking part voluntarily and I will follow the instructions of staff at all times.
- The information I have given is true, and I have disclosed any medical condition or injury that could affect my safety or the safety of others.
- For each person under 18 listed below: I am their parent or legal guardian (or I am authorised by their parent or guardian to sign for them), and I consent to them taking part on the same terms.
I understand that Your Business takes reasonable care to run this activity safely, that it cannot remove every risk, and that I am responsible for my own behaviour and for following the rules. Nothing in this form limits any rights I have under New Zealand law that cannot be excluded, including ACC cover.
Why it's worded this way
You'll notice it doesn't say "I release the operator from all liability". In New Zealand, ACC covers personal injury and people generally can't sue for compensation for injuries ACC covers, and an operator can't sign away its health and safety duties. So a sweeping American-style release adds little here and can look like you're hiding something. What's useful is a clear record that the person was told the risks, agreed to the rules, and gave you the medical and emergency details you need. More in the plain-English guide.
Not legal advice. This is a starting point. Swap "Your Business" for your name, change anything that doesn't match how you operate, and have the final version checked by your lawyer or insurer.