Try Off Road Taupō
50km Ultra
Course Summary
Are you ready to take on the ultimate test of endurance? The 50km Ultra is not just a race—it’s an adventure through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. Starting in the iconic Spa Park, this course combines the beautiful 26k trail run with a thrilling 24k loop through the Craters Mountain Bike Park. Get ready for a mix of terrain, incredible views, and challenges that will leave you feeling accomplished at every step.
Map & Info
Elevation Gain:
COURSE Description:
The 50 km Ultra kicks off at Spa Park, taking athletes along the scenic Huka Falls tracks before crossing the Red Bridge to the other side of the river. From there, runners make their way into the Craters Mountain Bike park section.
Armband Collection (MANDATORY)
At approximately 15.7 km on the Craters Outback Loop, you will collect a GREEN armband. You must collect and wear the armband to continue on the Outback Loop.
Exiting Craters Mountain Bike park, athletes pass through the beautiful Wairakei geothermal streams and make their way toward Aratiatia Dam. On the return, the course follows the river and Rotary Track back to Spa Park for a thrilling finish.
Expect a mix of rolling trails, gentle climbs, adrenaline-pumping descents, and breathtaking scenery—including Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, geothermal streams, native bush, and farmland. Every twist, climb, and descent will test your stamina and reward you with an unforgettable adventure. This is your chance to conquer the ultimate 50 km Ultra!
Aid Stations:
All aid stations are proudly sponsored by PURE, and will be fully stocked with water and PURE electrolyte to help keep you fueled and hydrated throughout the race. Aid stations are located at key points along the course: 5 km, 8 km, 11 km, 25 km, 33.5 km, 37.5 km, and 43 km.
This is a cup-free event, so all participants must carry a reusable bottle or hydration system to refill at aid stations.
While aid stations are there to support you, it’s essential to carry enough food and fluids to get through each section of the course. Please plan ahead, particularly for the longer distances between aid stations.
The Details
12th December 2026
Start Time
6:00am
Cut-off Time:
Must make past the Aratiatia Dam Aid Station (39 km mark) by 2:30pm
Start Line
Spa park, Taupō
Finish Line
Spa park, Taupō
Cut-off Time: Must make past the Aratiatia Dam Aid Station (39 km mark) by 2:30pm
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:
Prizes:
Prizegiving:
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!)
50km Ultra Trail Run
$260
Standard Entry
01 May to 30 November 2026
50km Ultra Trail Run
$275
Late Entry
01 December to 10 December 2026
50km Ultra Trail Run
$300
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
Huka Falls Mountain Biking Carpark
– 415 Huka Falls Road, Taupō
Wairakei Hotel Car Park
– 640 Wairakei Drive, Wairakei, Taupō 3384
Te Aro Car Park (Aid Station)
– 804 State Highway 1, Wairakei, Taupō 3384
Aratiatia dam (Aid Station)
– 630 Aratiatia Road, Rotokawa 3378