Legend of the Peaks

The Legend of the Peaks is an off-road running and walking festival set in Rotorua, Aotearoa New Zealand, offering a variety of events designed for participants of all fitness levels. The festival includes a kids’ 2km event, 5km, 10km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and culminates with the Whaka Ultra 50K, which serves as the New Zealand Athletics National 50K Championships.

The New Zealand Forest Marathon features a course that circumnavigates the scenic Whakarewarewa Forest, traversing all four prominent peaks: Kohaturoa, Titokorangi, Moerangi, and Kakapiko. The terrain includes a mix of forest trails and off-road paths, providing a challenging experience with significant elevation gain.

The Whaka Ultra 50K offers an extended experience beyond the Marathon, incorporating more technical climbs and single-track trails, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Whakarewarewa Forest.

The festival atmosphere is enhanced by a vibrant site featuring music, food, and an expo, creating a communal space where participants and spectators can relax, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate the achievements of runners and walkers crossing the finish line after their challenging adventures in the forest.