Te Āpiti Traverse
2026-09-19 00:00 - 23:59 (Pacific/Auckland)
An unforgettable trail running adventure through New Zealand’s iconic Manawatu Gorge, a rare natural wonder where the Manawatū River carves a dramatic path between the Ruahine and Tararua ranges. This unique event, one of the few in the North Island to cross such a distinct tectonic divide, offers runners stunning vistas from breathtaking lookouts, lush native bush teeming with kererū and tūī, and a thrilling mix of terrains suitable for all skill levels. Experience the cultural significance of Te Āpiti, a Māori taonga steeped in legends, and traverse on of 4 courses that blend challenging climbs with serene river views, making this community-focused event a must-do for trail enthusiasts seeking a truly distinctive New Zealand adventure.

Brighton's Backyard Ultra
2026-09-20 00:00 - 2026-09-21 23:59 | Dunedin, Dunedin, New Zealand
A Backyard Ultra in Brighton, Dunedin to fundraise for King’s High School.

Complete one 6.7km lap within an hour, restart again on the hour….continue…until only one person is left to complete a lap.

A Backyard Ultra is a type of ultramarathon where participants run laps of a set course of 6.706 metres (4.167 miles) and they must finish each loop in less than an hour. The race restarts each hour with all those that finished the previous lap on time. The race is over when only one runner remains to complete a lap. This runner is marked as the winner and only finisher, with all other runners receiving a DNF (Did Not Finish). The strange distance is because the distance for 24 laps is equal to 100 miles.

Cape Kidnappers Trail Run
2026-09-26 00:00 - 23:59 | Cape Kidnappers, Cape Kidnappers, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Cape Kidnappers will take you on an amazing journey and adventure through some stunning locations not normally accessible to the public.

The course is set on private land and includes trails by windswept beaches, native forest, waterfalls, river gorges and stunning coastal farmland.

If you haven’t been to Te Kauwae-a-Maui / Cape Kidnappers before, you don’t know what you’re missing – the views are simply spectacular!

34km RunHalf Marathon15km Run6km RunDistance34km21km15km6kmVert (m)1384725521175Gradient4.1%3.5%3.5%2.9%GRADIENT FACTORToughBumpyBumpyRunnable

The Awa Adventure Run
2026-09-26 00:00 - 23:59 | Whanganui, Whanganui, New Zealand
You can choose to walk or run the course that best suits you. The terrain will be a mixture of gravel roads, 4WD tracks and single trail incorporating lots of regenerating native bush and exotic forest with stunning views of the Whanganui River.

With the exception of the kids course, expect to stretch your legs on some decent hills. There may also be the odd spot where we choose to link tracks by the shortest route possible… i.e straight up or down a hill! If it’s a wet day, expect to get a little muddy.

Long CourseMedium CourseShort CourseDistance22.6km13.9km7kmVert (m)11306500Gradient5%4.7%0%GRADIENT FACTORHarshToughFlat

Botanic Gardens Trail
2026-09-26 00:00 - 23:59 | Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Tucked away in the heart of Auckland, the Auckland Botanical Gardens and Totara Regional Park are one of Auckland’s best kept secrets! Our courses begin in the heart of Auckland gardens, and have you meandering through the gardens before making your way out into the native bush of Totara Park. The mid and long course will get to explore more of this stunning regional park, moving through pockets of farm land and stunning old growth native bush before rejoining the short course in the Nikau forest and exploring more of what the beautiful Auckland Botanical Gardens has to offer!

Long CourseMedium CourseShort CourseDistance15km10km4kmVert (m)806840Gradient0.5%0.7%1%GRADIENT FACTORFlatFlatFlat

The Henderson Shuffle
2026-09-27 00:00 - 23:59
We are excited to bring you a 12 hour endurance event suitable for most abilities. Have you looked at ultra distance running events and wanted to give it a go? Do you feel you would miss the time cut off? Well then this is the perfect event for you. Join us on Sunday 27th of September for what should be an epic adventure. Starting at 7am and finishing at 7pm, run or walk along the easy 4km course as many times as you like. This is a community event suitable for all abilities. However, please note. The trail is not wheelchair friendly and bikes are not allowed on the trail.

Marina 2 Marina
2026-10-03 00:00 - 23:59 | Picton, Picton, New Zealand
Marina 2 Marina is a scenic annual running event in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds. This unique competition utilises the picturesque trails between Picton, Waikawa and Anakiwa. With a variety of walking or running courses to choose from, this event is suitable for all levels of fitness.

The four courses take you through native bush and along waterfront trails. A key feature is the panoramic views of the Marlborough Sounds that this event provides. You will finish at the event hub on Picton waterfront where a festival atmosphere will welcome you home.

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The Link, a 24km run (with optional boat cruise) from Anakiwa to Picton.

The Snout a 13km run or walk from Picton Marina to the end of the Snout and back.

Marina 2 Marina a 10km run or walk from Picton Marina to Waikawa Marina and back.

The Link RunThe Snout RunMarina 2 Marina RunDistance24km13km10kmVert (m)41520050Gradient1.7%1.5%0.5%GRADIENT FACTORRunnableRunnableFlat

Rakiura Challenge Trail Run
2026-10-03 00:00 - 23:59 | Stewart Island, Stewart Island, New Zealand
A 32km trail race around the Rakiura Track – one of the most varied and diverse trails in New Zealand on the southern-most Great Walk. The Rakiura Track show-cases a unique environment that spans from one coast of Stewart Island to the other through dense forest to epic coast!

Rakiura, the Māori name for Stewart Island, translates as ‘land of the glowing skies’. It is also home to lush native bush, spectacularly rugged coastlines, abundant bird and sea life, and one of New Zealand’s famous “Great Walks”.

Rakiura ChallengeDistance32kmVert (m)200Gradient0.6%GRADIENT FACTORFlat

McLaren Falls Trail
2026-10-03 00:00 - 23:59 | Tauranga, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Just a short ten minute drive from Tauranga, Mclaren Falls Regional Park covers a combination of pristine forest and beautiful farmland, all overlooking the stunning Lake Mclaren. Starting at the equestrian center the course climbs up the surrounding park to give spectacular views out over lake McLaren and out towards the Kaimai ranges. To assist you on your exploration of the park we have some iconic kiwi treats along the way to fuel you for your journey. With pockets of native bush and stunning views, what more could you want for a weekend adventure!

4 Paws Marathon
2026-10-04 00:00 - 23:59
Finally, a chance to run with your best friend! The 4 Paws Marathon is a fun and relaxed walk/run event within Bottle Lake Forest and along the beaches of Christchurch. The event is a dream inspired by a passionate Sport & Exercise Doctor and hence is a celebration of ‘exercise as medicine’. It is a tribute to all dog lovers and a salute to our best friend and loyal exercise ally – the humble dog.

Soft underfoot and with spectacular scenery to boot, this completely off road event is the ultimate expression of freedom that is sure to invigorate and refresh your senses. With a choice of 2.5km, 5km, 10km, 16km, half marathon, 32.2km, and marathon distances, the 4 Paws is designed to cater for all levels of fitness. Participation without a dog is also welcome. Come join us this year!

Orokonui Challenge
2026-10-10 00:00 - 23:59
Test yourself over our tough 18.7km course as you run over volcanoes, along beautiful coast, and through the protected Orokonui nature reserve. All participants can feel a sense of achievement not only for completing the challenge but supporting biodiversity, with all proceeds going towards Orokonui’s own challenge in wildlife advocacy and conservation.

The course starts near the Visitor centre carpark then runs along part of the Orokonui fence line, over the side of Mōpanui, along the coast from Pūrākaunui to Doctors Point, past the Orokonui inlet, and into the sanctuary to finish with a climb through the sanctuary’s protected forest. The total course length is 18.7km and contains around 600m of elevation change.

Taupō Ultramarathon
2026-10-17 00:00 - 23:59
Join us for an epic event that showcases the very best of what the Great Lake Taupō region has to offer: expansive lake views, rugged mountains, mighty rivers, pristine waterfalls, and untouched native New Zealand bush.
Though we are an ultra event we realise everyone has to start somewhere and offer distances to suit those experiencing the early stages of endurance-event fever. Get in there!

100K Ultra70K Ultra50km Run24km RunDistance100km70km50km24kmVert (m)1319900643429Gradient1.3%1.3%1.3%1.8%GRADIENT FACTORRunnableRunnableRunnableRunnable

Trek the Forest
2026-10-17 00:00 - 23:59 | Blue Lake, Blue Lake, Rotorua, New Zealand
Located on the beautiful Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake,) this course weaves around Lake Tikitapu for the short course, whilst the mid and long delves deeper into the stunning Whakarewarewa forest, with glimpses of Green Lake and beautiful old growth forest, this course will leave you speechless at the beauty of our backyard.

Suitable for: Great for a weekend adventure away in Rotorua. The long course is a good distance for the trail runner looking for a challenge in the build up for something epic! The mid course is a good distance day out of keen walkers and runners whilst the short course is an easy loop great for first timers and all fitness levels.

Track condition: 90% well-formed track, 10% more technical single track

LongMediumShortDistance17.5km14km5.5kmVert (m)17917740Gradient1%1.3%0.7%GRADIENT FACTORRunnableRunnableFlat

Whiskey Creek Challenge
2026-10-17 00:00 - 23:59
Based at Dolamore Park, just 10 minutes from Gore, in beautiful native bush, running loops around the 5km Whiskey Creek trail.

We have 4 events that will push you to your limit and beyond. A three, six, twelve and an ultimate 24 hour challenge. We’re thrilled to have you join our adventure!

Crater Rim Ultra
2026-10-18 00:00 - 23:59
With stunning hill, city, and harbour views and a variety of courses to suit all abilities, the Crater Rim Ultra is fast becoming a must-do event on the NZ Trail Running Calendar. ​Come along and challenge yourself right here on our stunning back doorstep and be part of the 2024 Crater Rim Ultra trail event.

Crater Rim UltraBellbird BusterKiwi ChallengeRapaki RumbleDistance53km30km22km12kmVert (m)24001182768414Gradient4.5%3.9%3.5%3.5%GRADIENT FACTORToughBumpyBumpyBumpy

Teetotal Traverse
2026-10-18 00:00 - 23:59 | Nelson Lakes, Nelson Lakes, New Zealand
There are courses suitable for a seasoned trail runner or a beginner wanting to try trail running.

There are three distances to choose from. Each course takes runners and walkers through this little-known conservation area and provides the opportunity to inhale pristine alpine air.

Competitive – of course! But open to all. Don’t let this opportunity slip by!

Proceeds from the event will be shared between Active4Good and two local charities, the MTB Trails Trust and Friends of Rotoiti Trust, to support their valuable work in this area. Active4Good is a non-profit organisation that raises funds to distribute to good causes in the region.

After the event it’s awards and lunch time at Alpine Lodge, St Arnaud* – come and enjoy the hospitality that the Unterberger Family, Alexandra & Leighton and their team have become famous for over the last 40 years.

Half MarathonBig Bush Kākā ChallengeSkating Pond StrideDistance21.5km13.7km8kmVert (m)647464171Gradient3%3.4%2.1%GRADIENT FACTORBumpyBumpyBumpy

Kaikōura Mountains to the Sea
2026-10-24 00:00 - 23:59 | Kaikōura, Kaikōura, New Zealand
Kaikо̄ura Mountains to the Sea is a community-focused event, open to participants of all ages.

An event running around Kaikoura’s iconic peninsula and up towards Mt Fyffe. Categories from marathon, half marathon, 10km and 5km. We also have a team event in the 42km – 4 person relay (each running 10ish km). This is Kaikoura High School and the Kaikoura Lions major fundraiser for the year. The idea is to have a fun and challenging event situated in amazing scenery in one of the best places for a break away!

*All races have the following categories – Little Blue (17 & under), Dotterel (18- 29), Shearwater (30-39), White Morph (40-49), Skua (50-59), Mollymawk (60-69) Albatross (70+)*

MarathonHalf Marathon10k5kDistance42km21km10km5kmVert (m)39220316157Gradient0.9%1%1.6%1.1%GRADIENT FACTORFlatFlatRunnableRunnable

River-Run Backyard Ultra
2026-10-24 00:00 - 2026-10-25 23:59 | Hawkes Bay, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
All profits from the event will be donated to the Waipukurau Rotary River Pathways Trust. You can find out more about the Waipukurau Rotary River Pathways Trust, and the beautiful Tukituki Trail at https://www.tukitukitrail.com/.

Wairarapa Backyard Ultra
2026-10-24 00:00 - 2026-10-25 23:59
Event Details

Date & Time

Labour Weekend 2026 – Saturday 24th October 1pm

Location

Colin Pugh SportsbowlMasterton, New Zealand

Course

6.7km loop on mixed terrain including trails, gravel roads, and short pavement sections

Capacity

Limited to 150 participants

Entry Fee

$95 NZD

Aorangi 100
2026-10-31 00:00 - 23:59
Day 1Day 2 / Aorangi UndulatorDay 3Distance50km33km23kmVert (m)2800500Gradient8.5%4.2%GRADIENT FACTORBrutalTough

Mission Mt Somers
2026-10-31 00:00 - 23:59
Start and finish at the Staveley Store. The run is based around the Mt Somers DOC walking track.
The nearest town to provide accommodation and facilities is Methven.

Somers MarathonHalf Marathon10kDistance42km21km10kmVert (m)1400700100Gradient3.3%3.3%1%GRADIENT FACTORBumpyBumpyRunnable

Legend of the Peaks
2026-11-06 00:00 - 23:59 | Rotorua, Rotorua, New Zealand
Legend of the Peaks is an off-road running festival, open to almost all ages, set in Rotorua, Aotearoa New Zealand. Within the festival there are a number of different races that aim to attract both competitive and non-competitive participants with the premier event being the New Zealand Forest Marathon, an epic 42km race incorporating awesome forest trails, off-road running and hitting all four peaks in the forest making for over 1700m of elevation gain.

The events are:New Zealand Forest Marathon – 42.8kms, 1750m elevation gain, 4 Peaks

Moerangi Half Marathon – 21kms, 950m elevation gain, 2.5 Peaks

Titokorangi 10K – 10kms, 430m elevation gain, 2 Peaks

5K Trig Loop – 5kms, 140m elevation gain, 1 Peak

Kids Forest Run – 2kms, 45m elevation gain

The festival site will have music, food, expo and a vibe that could see you sipping away on a tasty beverage, chilling to the music while you watch your friends and whānau cross the line after an epic adventure in the forest.

Forest MarathonMoerangi HalfTitokorangi Forest 10k5k TrigDistance42km21km10km5kmVert (m)1750950430140Gradient4.2%4.5%4.3%2.8%GRADIENT FACTORToughToughToughRunnable

Lochmara Half Marathon
2026-11-07 00:00 - 23:59 | Picton, Picton, New Zealand
The excitement in the air, as we all queue to board the two handsome passenger catamarans at the Beachcomber wharf this November the 9th, we will have all the anticipation of the previous 9 half marathons. The 1 hour cruise to the start line at Anakiwa has a unique energy. As we motor out of Picton Harbour, huddles of friends gather aboard to tell each other they haven’t done enough training, perhaps an early excuse just in case they have a slow day, whilst the more serious close their eyes and focus on everything they have learned in training and then rethink their race plan. It will be just a couple of hours before all will be forgotten and the beckoning Lochmara Lodge, a swim and a relaxing drink and lunch will be front of mind. This is your invitation to not only run this beautiful course, but also to dust off the winter just past, maybe loose a bit of weight and lift your fitness levels and join 199 other competitors in this the 10th anniversary Lochmara Lodge Half Marathon in 2024.

Half MarathonDistance21kmVert (m)935Gradient4.5%GRADIENT FACTORTough

Hamilton Gardens Trail
2026-11-07 00:00 - 23:59 | Hamilton, Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand
Located in the Centre of Hamilton and nestled on the side of the mighty Waikato River, Hamilton Gardens offers picturesque views and wonderfully manicured gardens. Both the start and finish line are sat within the gardens with the course meandering throughout the gardens out towards the Waikato River. You will then cruise along the banks of the river treated with lush native bush and beautiful views out over the River. Supported by kiwiana theme pit stops along the way and different distance options, it’s the perfect Saturday adventure to the whole family!

Arrowtown Backyard Ultra
2026-11-07 00:00 - 2026-11-08 23:59 | Arrowtown, Arrowtown, Otago, New Zealand
Sat 9 Nov 2024 9am until the last person is standing!

Butler Green (Event Village) & Arrow River Trail (Course)

The event SOLD OUT in 2 days and there’s a long waitlist.

If you want to be emailed before entries open for the 2025 event, then you can join the WAITLIST.

How far do you think you could run?

Marathon? 100km? 100miles?

Are you interested to see how far you can go?

Test your limits, enter the Arrowtown Backyard Ultra now!

Riversea Ultra
2026-11-14 00:00 - 23:59
How far can you run without crossing a “proper” road

whilst staying within a few hundred metres of a waterway

~ river, lagoon, ocean or stream,

and offering a variety of terrain to run on?

The Result

82kms of pure running magic

Rakahuri to South New Brighton

45m elevation gain

140m elevation loss

Fast, flat & fabulous

RiverSea Ultra ~ Where the tide determines the start time!!

Coastal Five
2026-11-14 00:00 - 2026-11-15 23:59
A running festival like no other.The Coastal Five offers a fresh take on the traditional marathon — five unique events over two days, all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Taranaki and the New Plymouth coastline.

Choose to run just one, or mix and match two, three, four or take on all five. Whether you’re chasing a new challenge or soaking up the scenery, this is a weekend of running you won’t forget.

From the world-class Coastal Walkway to iconic spots like Pukekura Park, Pukeiti Gardens and Lake Mangamahoe — this is a running experience like no other, right here in Taranaki.

Aotearoa Afghanistan Marathon
2026-11-15 00:00 - 23:59
Inspired by the ground-breaking Marathon of Afghanistan , Timatanga Hou welcomes you to the second Aotearoa Afghanistan Marathon.

The Aotearoa Afghanistan Marathon is fueled by the spirit of inclusivity and friendship and is an event that combines running with celebrating the many cultures of Afghanistan.

WAI2K
2026-11-21 00:00 - 23:59
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Find adventure on the unbeaten path with the mighty WAI2K. Our team of trail-running experts will take you on an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes and challenging terrains. Get ready to lace up your shoes and experience the freedom of the trail.

100K Ultra50K UltraQuad ExtenderScenicDistance100km50km24km12kmVert (m)400025001200250Gradient4%5%4.8%2.1%GRADIENT FACTORToughHarshToughRunnable

Rage Against Riverhead
2026-11-21 00:00 - 23:59
Rage Against Riverhead 8, 12 or 24hr Relay or Solo

Solo or relay teams of 2, 4 or 6 people completing as many 5km trail laps as possible (non-stop) in either 8, 12 or 24 hours.

One runner at a time on the course which goes through the tent city so you transition right outside your team’s tent!

Summary of the Relay

Starts at 9am on Saturday 23 November

Solo people or teams of 2, 4 or 6 people complete as many laps as they can in the time limit

Only one person from each team is running on the course at any time

Each team will be allocated a tent site on the course at the event base. Teams set up this site as they please and the runners tag right outside their tent site. BYO Tent.

Teams decide who runs how many and which laps – totally up to them

The event is aimed at all fitness levels from families to running clubs to corporate teams. We encourage walking teams too!

Teams are encouraged to dress up in a team costume!

8 Hour12 Hour24 HourDistance5km (per lap)5km (per lap)5km (per lap)Vert (m)70 (per lap)70 (per lap)70 (per lap)Gradient1.4%1.4%1.4%GRADIENT FACTORRunnableRunnableRunnable
