Wairarapa Backyard Ultra 2026

The Wairarapa Backyard Ultra is a last-person-standing ultramarathon held in Masterton, New Zealand. It takes place at Colin Pugh Sports Bowl during Labour weekend. All runners begin a 6.7 km loop on the hour, starting at 9:00 am. Each participant must complete the lap before the next hour commences. Remaining time within the hour is used for rest, nutrition, and preparation before the next loop. The event continues until only one runner can finish a lap more than all other competitors. The loop follows riverside and lakeside paths within the Wairarapa region, incorporating trails, gravel roads, and brief paved stretches. This race is suited for participants seeking a test of pacing and endurance rather than a single, fast finish, as the consistent distance becomes more challenging with each successive hour. With a cap of 150 participants, the field is intimate yet sufficiently competitive for those training for ultras or exploring the backyard ultra format.