I’ve heard the theory that the golf is grippier in the wet than dry before, tbh, I don’t buy it. That said, it’s still very rideable and great fun!
Some things that help me:
Tyres – get the right ones. Shorty/DHR2 is my default choice in the wet. Then, crucially, don’t put too much air in them!
As per Tracey Moseley – Point and shoot. Trying to steer round slippy roots or brake on them is futile. Look for your next safe turning/braking spot, find the straight line towards that and commit to it. Ride that line loose and relaxed. Accept that the bike will squirm under you but will still hold that line.
For the most part, the front wheel is for steering only. This is not really true but it helps me to keep telling myself that. Those crucial, steep, slippy turns require that you put the front wheel in the right place. Don’t fall into the panic trap of front wheel braking when you should be steering. You can hit those turns much faster than you think, providing you find the catch berm/rut with the front wheel and it’s not locked solid!
Man, NZ is brilliant and all, but I miss the Golfy!