Rocky Point Trail Run 2026

Rocky Point Trail Run is an off-road running and walking event on New Zealand’s Kawatiri Coastal Trail, with all distances finishing at Carters Beach. It uses newer sections of the trail, offering participants four options: the 25km Charleston Challenge, the 22.5km Gut-Buster, the 12.5km Bay Watch run/walk, and the 5km All Aboard run/walk. The event caters to various participants, from long-distance trail runners to walkers and families seeking a shorter course. A compulsory race briefing takes place at Carters Beach Hall, and the event contributes to the ongoing maintenance and improvements of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. The longer routes connect coastal trail sections around the Buller district, featuring native forest, wetlands, farmland edges, coastal views, swing bridges, climbs, and descents. The Charleston Challenge begins at Constant Bay in Charleston and concludes at Carters Beach. The Gut-Buster starts near Virgin Flat Road, incorporating the Okari, Tauranga, Omau, and Kawau sections. Bay Watch commences at Tauranga Bay, following the coastal trail to Carters Beach. All Aboard starts at the Buller Bridge carpark in Westport, crosses the bridge, and continues over boardwalks, wetlands, and native bush. The field grew rapidly from 104 competitors in its first year to 250 at the next edition, with race director Brent Oldham noting it was a reflection of the district, the trail, and the local people involved.