Taupo Ultramarathon 2026

The Taupo Ultramarathon is a trail race held in Taupo, New Zealand's Waikato region, with its main race weekend scheduled for mid-October. Participants can select from 100.1 km, 74 km, or 50 km distances. A 24 km option is also available for running or walking. The 100.1 km event presents the most significant challenge, featuring 2,860 meters of elevation gain, and can be completed solo or as part of a team. The 74 km race includes 1,221 meters of climbing, and the 50 km race has 1,190 meters, attracting the largest number of participants. The courses traverse wild paths, forests, and mountain trails in the Taupo area, incorporating lakes and natural landscapes. The 100 km race is part of the UTMB Index, drawing participants focused on mountain-ultra rankings alongside those seeking a demanding local trail challenge. Past event statistics indicate over 300 participants in the 50 km and more than 100 in the 100 km, with one listed 100 km edition recording 158 finishers. The event offers a comprehensive trail-ultra weekend with its climbing, team option, and varied distances, catering to serious runners, walkers, and relay teams.