The Abel Tasman Coastal Classic, shaping up to be one of New Zealand's most anticipated trail running events, is set to take place on October 7th, 2023, in the stunning landscape of Takaka, Tasman region. The 31-kilometer course runs along the renowned Abel Tasman National Park, making it much more than an average race – it's a unique blend of physical challenge and breathtaking scenery. The trail sees participants running from Awaroa to Marahau, with boat transport for all runners provided from Kaiteriteri. Entries are limited to 350, making it an exclusive event for running enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience. First started in 1994, the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic is a must-add to any runner's bucket list.

The James Mountain Sport Series, now in its second year, will ignite the competitive spirit of adrenaline enthusiasts on January 20, 2024, in the visually vibrant Hanmer Springs, Canterbury. This mountain biking event is segmented into seven thrilling course names: Great Southern Alps Miler, Mad Cow, Pony Express, EPIC, Homestead Half, High Country 100, and Stampede Ultra. Participants will tackle distances ranging from a challenging 21 to an exacting 100, navigating diverse terrains, river crossings, and steep ascents. The varied and demanding landscape tests even the most resolute athletes. However, the awe-inspiring panoramas of Canterbury provide a magnificent setting for the strenuous endeavor. Tailored for the bold thrill-seeker, the James Mountain Sport Series turns the lush Southern Alps into a playground of adventure and competition.

The Marmot T42 is a test of endurance, set to take place on May 4, 2024, amidst the pristine environs of Owhango in the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Considered one of New Zealand's most iconic trail running events, it offers diverse race options. Participants can challenge themselves with an 11 KM, 24 KM, or the grueling 42.2 KM trail marathon; there's also a shorter 7 KM run/walk for those seeking a less intense endeavor. Originally including a 48 KM mountain bike race, this component has sadly been cancelled. Known for its astonishing alpine scenery and crisp air, the Marmot T42 promises an unforgettable running experience. The contest attracts a broad range of participants, from professional athletes to enthusiasts seeking a weekend adventure in the great outdoors. With the race day fast approaching, participants are gearing up and looking forward to testing their limits in this off-road challenge.

Le Race, an esteemed New Zealand cycling event, will run its next race in Canterbury, Christchurch, on March 23rd, 2024. The course will include four distinct categories: Le Race Petite, Tandem, Individual, and Relay, with the majority of races spanning across a rigorous 100-kilometer distance. As part of commemorating the 25th-anniversary celebration, Le Race will feature the iconic 100km route from Christchurch to Akaroa that provides an unforgettable cycling experience steeped in rich New Zealand history, dating back to the course's first running in 1935. An embodiment of inclusivity, Le Race, aptly deemed \"a race for everyone,\" offers options suitable for any type of rider, whether a solo competitor, looking to seize the landscape on a tandem bike, or part of a relay squad.

The Taupo Ultramarathon is an iconic and challenging race event promising a stunning mix of challenging terrains and breathtaking vistas in the Waikato region of New Zealand. Scheduled for October 12, 2024, the race offers a variety of distances to suit varying endurance levels - a staggering 100km relay, a solo 100km, a 74km, a 50km for running/walking, and a 24km course. Adopting an element of inclusivity, this ultramarathon presents opportunities for both trail running and walking races. Participants can expect a spectacular journey alongside the iconic Taupō’s Great Lake trail, offering expansive lake views, rugged mountains, mighty rivers, and pristine waterfalls. This ultimate test of physical and mental endurance draws athletes from around the globe to experience the incredible breadth of natural beauty in the Great Lake Taupō region.

Prepare to challenge your limits in the dynamic XTERRA Trail Challenge, taking place on the 18th of November 2023, in the picturesque and rugged terrain of Waihi, in the Waikato region. This trail running event guarantees an exhilarating experience across an array of distances - 21km, 42km, 13km, and 8km, with the Trail Tiger catered for the young budding athletes. The race course, renowned as one of the best off-road runs in New Zealand, navigates through the historic Karangahake Gorge. With courses ranging from fast riverside trails to inspiring climbs, participants will be enveloped in awe-inspiring natural beauty and intriguing remnants from a golden mining age. This event promises unparalleled excitement for trail runners of all ages and abilities.

The Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge, set to take place on February 24, 2024, is a premier trail running race hosted in the bustling city of Auckland, in the region of Auckland. The race encapsulates the spirit of adventure, featuring an off-the-beaten-track journey along Auckland's extraordinary North Shore coastline. Multiple course distances available, namely the Full Monty, Mid Monty, Mini Monty, Bay Scrambler, Beach Hopper, Full Monty Relay, self-supported 50 km ultra, and Mid Monty Relay, ensure there's something for everyone, from trained professionals to the everyday fun-runner.This well-organized challenge offers distances from 6 km, catering to beginner level athletes, up to a self-supported ultra of 50 km, designed for the more experienced trail runner. With courses traversing the coast, participants can look forward to running, walking, rock hopping, and yes, expect to get wet. Whether a one-time experience or a repeated tradition, the Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge promises an unforgettable experience among Auckland's most beloved beaches.

The Whitianga Marathon, set in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula region of Waikato, New Zealand, after being cancelled in 2023 due to severe local weather complications, is now eagerly anticipated for its return. The event, renowned for its scenic beauty along picturesque coastal courses, is rescheduled to take place on May 25, 2024. Participants can look forward to a variety of distances, from a 5km fun run to a challenging 21km trail run. With the issues of the past behind them, organisers are committed to ensuring an unforgettable running festival in 2024 and are already making preparations for a bigger and brighter experience to celebrate the event's recovery and comeback.

Join us for our much-awaited walking extravaganza, Coastal Classic Craypot Run - Moturata Views Walk and Akatore Challenge, set to take place on November 3, 2024. This stunning event takes centre stage in Brighton, region of Otago, with the race offering a variety of distances - 5 km, 12 km, 15 km, 21 km, and 45 km, catered to suit all levels of endurance.The Coastal Classic Craypot Run adds a twist to the endurance sport genre, with its myriad options for participants that include different challenges for walking enthusiasts. The event, which attracts participants from all over the region, features picturesque coastal views and the exquisite landscapes of Brighton. Proceeds from the event will be donated, aiding the completion of enhancement projects in the Taieri Mouth district, as well as supporting Southern Youth Development.

Get ready for the thrill of trail running at its best at the Buddy Coastal Classic, an event that promises exciting routes through a variety of terrain. Scheduled for November 9, 2024, this trail running event takes place in the picturesque city of Killcare, located in the lush region of New South Wales. Participants can look forward to two challenging runs across 21 kilometers and 14 kilometers, both immersing runners in the area's stunning coastal views, cliff tops, smooth trails, hills, sandy expanses, and rocky landscapes within Bouddi National Park. This event gives you the chance to experience the great outdoors while pushing your fitness levels to the limit. Don't miss out on this exhilarating sporting event that combines spectacular views with challenging trail running.

Abel Tasman Coastal Classic

Courses

Location

Don't Miss Another Bucketlist Race

Races you might like