The Kepler Challenge & Luxmore Grunt

The Kepler Challenge and Luxmore Grunt events feature a course that traverses the beautiful landscapes of Fiordland National Park. The race begins with a relatively flat 6km stretch along the shores of Lake Te Anau before ascending steadily to Luxmore Hut. This segment is followed by a run along the mountain tops, offering panoramic views of the South Fiord, and then a descent to Iris Burn Hut. The course continues with a gradual downhill run along the Iris Burn, leading to Moturau Hut on Lake Manapouri, and finishes with a 6km path to Rainbow Reach before returning to the start point via a scenic route adjacent to the Waiau River.

The Luxmore Grunt, running concurrently with the Kepler Challenge, follows the same initial path but turns around at Luxmore Hut for a return to the starting point, effectively making it a shorter but equally challenging experience.

Due to the popularity of both races, entry spots are highly coveted and typically sell out quickly. The course’s stunning natural scenery, combined with the challenging terrain, makes these events a significant draw for both local and international runners seeking a distinctive trail running experience. Additionally, the races foster a strong sense of community and camaraderie, with many volunteers and spectators supporting runners throughout the day.