Saturday 13 March 2027
Tararua Mountain Race (TMR)
Otaki, Kaitoke to Otaki Forks, Tararua Ranges
The race
About this course
The Tararua Mountain Race features a challenging point-to-point course that follows the historic Southern Crossing tramping route from Kaitoke to Otaki Forks. This rugged terrain is characterized by steep ascents, with participants facing a significant elevation gain as they navigate through the diverse landscapes of the Tararua Ranges.
As one of New Zealand’s longest-running mountain races, first held in 1990, the event draws both seasoned runners and outdoor enthusiasts. The Tararua Ranges are known for their dramatic weather and demanding conditions, making this race particularly suited for those with considerable experience in mountain running.
In addition to the main race, the event day includes shorter races: a 13K Field Dash and a 24K Kime Climb, both of which offer participants a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty while challenging their endurance. The atmosphere on race day is often vibrant, with a strong sense of community among participants, volunteers, and spectators, reflecting the local culture and appreciation for outdoor activities.
Pick your race
Distances
Field Dash 13K / 770m ascent
13km
Kime Climb 24K / 1300m ascent
24km
Southern Crossing 36K / 2,300 ascent - solo/team
36km
What to expect
Race day conditions
Getting there
Event location
Otaki Gorge Road, Hautere 5583, New ZealandGet directions(opens in a new tab)
From runners
What runners wish they’d known
Event details and map location come from public information on the official event website(opens in a new tab). If a listing looks out of date, or you need exact start lines and course maps, check the official source or email [email protected].
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Questions about this race?
Ask the NZ Running community about the course, parking, and what race day is like at Tararua Mountain Race (TMR).