Athletics New Zealand 50km Championships To Join Legend Of The Peaks Festival In 2026

The Legend of the Peaks trail running and walking festival will reach new heights in 2026 with the introduction of the Whaka Ultra 50.2K, an ultra-distance race that will double as the Athletics New Zealand National 50km Championships.

The new event will take centre stage at the two-day festival held 6–7 November 2026 in Rotorua’s world-renowned Whakarewarewa Forest, elevating the festival to national championship status and cementing its reputation as one of Aotearoa’s premier endurance events.

The 2025 event drew more than 3,200 participants across the two days, signalling the momentum and appetite for the festival’s continued expansion.

“Athletics NZ is delighted to be bringing the NZ 50km Championships to the inaugural 50km event within Legend of the Peaks in November 2026,” said Jason Cameron, Head of Growth Events, Athletics NZ.

“The event is gaining an impressive reputation in the trail and endurance running community, and the opportunity to stage our national championships in the legendary Whakarewarewa Forest will make for a special occasion.”

Festival Director Takurua Mutu said adding the Whaka Ultra 50.2K marks a major milestone for the event and the wider Rotorua community.

“We’re incredibly proud to see Legend of the Peaks evolve into a platform worthy of hosting a national championship,” said Mutu.

“The Whakarewarewa Forest is the heart of outdoor adventure in Aotearoa, and to welcome athletes from across the country to race here at a championship level is something really special. It’s a testament to how far the festival has come — and to the people who make it happen.”

The Whaka Ultra 50.2K course will challenge even the most seasoned runners, featuring 2000 metres of elevation gain and summiting four peaks — and then some — through the iconic redwoods, native bush, and geothermal landscapes that make Rotorua unique.

The 2026 festival will once again feature a full weekend of events for all ages and abilities, including the New Zealand Forest Marathon, CamelBak Moerangi Half Marathon, Titokorangi 10.5K, Secret Spot Hot Tubs 5.8K Trig Loop, Koeke Classic 2K and 3K, and the PAK’nSAVE Rotorua Kids Forest Run.

Since its debut in 2023, Legend of the Peaks has grown into one of Rotorua’s signature sporting festivals, bringing together thousands of participants, supporters, and spectators to celebrate community, culture, and endurance in the heart of the forest.

The 2026 edition is expected to draw the event’s biggest field yet, as elite athletes and recreational runners alike descend on Rotorua for the chance to be part of a truly national celebration of trail running.

The Legend of the Peaks festival is locally owned and operated by Tohu Experiences, showcasing the region’s trails, culture, and community spirit through world-class events that honour the mana of the land and people who call it home.

About the Legend of the Peaks:

The Legend of the Peaks Festival is a locally owned and operated event held in Rotorua, New Zealand. Founded by local Rotorua company Tohu Experience’s, this festival celebrates the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and athletic spirit of New Zealand. The festival's premier event, the New Zealand Forest Marathon, offers participants a unique opportunity to explore stunning landscapes while pushing their limits. The festival aims to create an unforgettable experience by immersing the attendees in the local community, showcasing the amazing outdoor recreation and inspiring culture on offer in Rotorua.

Legend of the Peaks events:

o Whaka Ultra 50.2K, 50.2, 2000m Elevation Gain, Summit 4 Peaks + some

o New Zealand Forest Marathon, 42.5kms, 1750m Elevation Gain, Summit 4 Peaks

o Camelbak Moerangi Half Marathon, 21.3kms, 950m Elevation Gain, Summit 2.5 Peaks

o Titokorangi 10.5K, 10.5kms, 430m Elevation Gain, Summit 2 Peaks

o Secret Spot Hot Tubs 5.8K Trig Loop, 5.8kms, 140m Elevation Gain, Summit 1 Peak

o Koeke Classic, 2kms and 3kms, 45m Elevation Gain, No Peaks

o PAK'nSAVE Kids Forest Run, 2kms and 3kms, 45m Elevation Gain, No Peaks (kids only, School Years 0-8)

About Tohu Experience:

Tohu Experiences is owned and operated by brothers Takurua and Tuhua Mutu. First started in 1989 (then named Priceless Experiences) Tohu has accumulated a depth of knowledge and experience that have led it to become industry leaders in Tourism and Events.

The Tohu Experiences whānau (family) is one that was born from an ethos of ensuring that every experience is always about people. Their professional and personable crew follow traditional Māori values of Kaitiakitanga (guardians of place and people), Manaakitanga (building integrity and strength in each other), Whanaungatanga (creating lasting relationships with all those whose paths we cross) and Kotahitanga (coming together and moving forward as one).

Tohu Experiences delivers experiences for corporate and sports events, luxury and premium tours, international schools and also is the parent company to the Mountain Bike Rotorua group.

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