Try Off Road Taupō

26km Trail

Course Summary

Prepare for an epic 26km adventure through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes! This trail run takes you along the iconic Waikato River, through lush forests, farmland, and geothermal wonders. With breathtaking views of Huka Falls, the Aratiatia Dam, and aquamarine waters, every step will leave you in awe. Whether you’re navigating winding trails, crossing streams, or powering past hidden viewpoints, this course offers an unforgettable experience for every athlete

Map & Info

Elevation Gain:

362m

COURSE Description:

Get ready The 26kmTrail Run/walk is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through a stunning network of rolling trails along the majestic Waikato River. Starting at Spa Park, you’ll race toward the mesmerizing Huka Falls, wind through the lush Wairakei Tourist Park, and power through the iconic Aratiatia Dam and Rotary Trail.

This course is packed with excitement! You’ll navigate through winding gullies, dodge towering trees, and sprint alongside open farmland. Cross two bridged streams and push past the best viewpoints, where the brilliant aquamarine waters of the Waikato River, the thunderous Huka Falls, and the surreal geothermal streams will leave you breathless. Every twist and turn brings new thrills, with awe-inspiring views at every step!

Aid Stations:

All aid stations are proudly sponsored by PURE and will be stocked with water and PURE electrolyte to support you along the course. Aid stations are located at 5 km, 8 km, 13.5 km, and 18.5 km.

This is a cup-free event, so please bring a reusable bottle or hydration system to refill as needed.

While aid stations are available to help, it’s important to carry enough food and fluids to keep you going between stations—especially on the longer stretches. Plan ahead and stay fueled throughout the race.

The Details

12th December 2026

Start Time

9:00am

Start Line

Spa park, Taupō

Finish Line

Spa Park, Taupō

Race Briefing:

It is compulsory for you to attend your race briefing that will be held 15min prior to race start. It will include up-to-date courses and weather conditions. The briefing will be based on you having read all the information sent to you pertaining to your event.

Athlete Check-in:

Event Registration Details

Date & Time: Friday, 11th December, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: IPPNZ Showroom, 2/258 Spa Road

Late Registration:

A $30 late fee applies (payable by cash or bank transfer).
Late registration is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed if the event is SOLD OUT.

Pick-up on Event Day: Late registration pick-up will be available at Spa Park from 5:00 am.

Timing Results:

Timing results will be provided by age group category. (age on race day) group categories are as follows for men and women; 18-20, 20 – 39, 40 – 49, 50 – 59, 60 – 69, 70+

Walkers:

Walkers are welcome to enter the 26km. The walking category is for participants who intend to walk the entire course and compete against other ‘walkers’. If you intend to run even one step on the course please register as a ‘runner’. Please ensure walkers start at the back behind the runners and keep to the left at all times.

Prizes:

All 26 km finishers will receive a Finisher Medal.

Prizegiving:

Prizegiving will be near the finish line at Spa Park (rain or shine) at 3.00pm.

Major spot prizes will be drawn at random, and you must be present to claim a major spot prize. Once again, there is a fantastic range of major spot prizes.

Top 3 male and female runners in each distance will be awarded at prizegiving. No age group placings will be acknowledged or awarded, however they will show in the results.

Entry Info

READY. SET. REGISTER!

Early bird entries are NOW OPEN!

Limited spots available – secure yours before 30th April 2026 or until sold out! This is your moment to lock in the best price and guarantee your place at the start line.

EArly Bird

Until 30 April 2026 (or until sold out!)

26km Trail Run

$130

Standard Entry

01 May to 30 December 2026

26km Trail Run

$155

Late Entry

01 December to 10 December 2026

26km Trail Run

$170

The sooner you commit, the more you save – and the sooner you can start training for something EPIC. Don’t wait. Don’t miss out.
👇 Hit that register button and let’s gooo!

Please note:

All entry prices are shown in New Zealand dollars exclusive of a $5 booking fee
Late entries will be accepted in person at Athlete Check-In, unless sold out prior. Registration fee + a $30 late entry fee will occur.

Entry inclusions:

Entry includes Finishers Medal + Chip Timed Results + On-Course Nutrition + Category winners prizes

Spectator Zones

Start & Finish (Spa Park)

– 281 Spa Road, Tauhara, Taupō

Te Aro Car Park (Aid Station)

– 804 State Highway 1, Wairakei, Taupō 3384

Aratiatia dam (Aid Station)

– 630 Aratiatia Road, Rotokawa 3378