Saturday 14 November 2026
Trail Challenge Waihi
Waikino, Karangahake Gorge
The race
About this course
Set against the backdrop of the historic Karangahake Gorge, this annual trail run and walk attracts participants of all ages and abilities. The course features a mix of flat, fast riverside trails and challenging climbs up Mt Karangahake, allowing runners and walkers to experience the beauty of pristine native bush.
Participants can expect to traverse old railway tunnels and encounter intriguing relics from the region’s gold mining history, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage. The event fosters a sense of community, as it is part of a broader series that showcases some of the finest off-road locations in and around Auckland.
Logistically, this event promotes sustainability as it is a cup-free occasion, encouraging participants to bring their own reusable cups or water bottles for refilling at aid stations throughout the course. This initiative reflects a growing trend towards environmentally conscious practices in sporting events.
Pick your race
Distances
42K - run only
42km
21K - run/walk
21km
13K - run/walk
13km
8K - run/walk
8km
Kids' 1K
1km
What to expect
Race day conditions
Terrain and altitude come from the course. Weather is a ten-year average for this date, not a forecast.
Weather data by Open-Meteo(opens in a new tab).
Getting there
Event location
Dickey Flat Road, Waikino 3682, 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 If a listing looks out of date, or you need exact start lines and course maps, check the official source or email [email protected].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 Trail Challenge Waihi.