Back quite a few years ago, I met a guy who owned a Ducati. I don’t recall the model, but it made an amazing sound, had an airbrushed tank, and was the coolest thing I’d ever seen. Back then, the first Kawasaki models were just coming into the country, and most bikes were British-made, so the Ducati was a definitely novelty and something to admire.
Fast forward many years, and I decided to get back into riding again. I knew it had to be Ducati. Fortunately, a neighbour of mine, Mark, had a 1997 M600 for sale, which I quickly snapped up. Mark mentioned that there was a very active Ducati Club, so I decided to investigate and joined up.
When I joined the DOCNZ, I wasn’t sure what to expect. With my first club ride I was very nervous. I was really worried about being able to keep up with the other riders, and if it would be too far or too fast for me. But surprisingly, the club was very welcoming to a newbie. They knew I was nervous and just said, “Ride your own ride and don’t worry about it. You won't get lost, someone will wait for you at any corner we change direction.”
Since then, I’ve owned a 2010 Monster 1100S, then in 2021, I purchased the new Monster 937, which was the first model with no trellis frame. In 2023, when they introduced the Monster SP, I traded in my 2021 model and upgraded for better suspension and braking.
My MONSTERS
For many years, I raced go-karts, and while I really enjoyed the club, it was very competitive and full of rules and regulations. I found the budget required to race was very high and very taxing on the body. Just about the only rule in DOCNZ is "don’t be a dick" so far more relaxing.
I think if I wasn’t in DOCNZ, I probably wouldn’t have upgraded my bike and enjoyed riding as much as I do. I often ride alone, but I do look forward to the club rides and riding with others. I really enjoy the monthly meetings and the camaraderie among the members. Unlike other clubs, where people often focus on your job, money, or social status, the Ducati club prioritises your passion for riding. The first question anyone asks is what you ride, and that’s where the conversation naturally flows.
My first track day
📸 Aaron Staples
DOCNZ Event - WeRideAsOne
📸 Aaron Staples
I’ve been to 3 National Ducati Rally’s (NDR) now, and I’m really looking forward to the South Island again. In previous rallies, I’ve been worried about not knowing anyone or just sitting with the Auckland crowd. However, I’ve learned that it’s okay to strike up a conversation with strangers and end up with a few more mates by the end of the evenings.
Helping at NDR 2024
📸 Kent Murray
In my element
📸 Kent Murray
Helping out at NDR 2025
📸 Aaron Staples
My highlight for riding so far was the Te Anau NDR in 2024 and riding the South Island roads (particularly the West Coast). I’d never ridden in the South Island before. With riding so many days in a row I learnt so much and got to know the bike well. I’ll definitely be heading to NDR in Twizel next year with the only difference being a slightly smaller luggage haul.
The offending HAUL.
📸 anonymous 😅
✍🏼Mark Dixon
