Signing up for a multisport event or cycle race can be a great way to switch up your exercise regime, increase fitness or discover a new area of the country. If you’re in the mood for a new challenge, here’s a roundup of some of New Zealand’s most iconic events. One of the world’s longest running multisport events, the Coast to Coast traverses the width of the South Island, starting out at Kumara Beach on the West Coast and finishing at New Brighton Beach in Christchurch. Incorporating running, biking and kayaking stages, over 18 000 people have completed the event since 1983.
The 2019 race takes place on 8 and 9 February. If you’ve got the stamina, sign up for the Longest Day, which involves attempting the entire 243 kilometre course in one day. There are also two day and two day tandem events on offer. Early bird entry is now open on the website.
The 226 kilometre Challenge Wanaka triathlon takes place amongst the stunning lake and mountain scenery of Mount Aspiring National Park. Considered one of the world’s toughest long distance triathlon courses, the 2019 event is scheduled for 16 February. Half triathlon and various junior events are also on offer.
Looking for a straight-up bike race? The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is New Zealand’s largest cycle event, with a huge array of categories, including the ever-popular Bike Barn Round the Lake (a 1 lap, 160 kilometre circumnavigation of Lake Taupo), the Half the Lake (approximately 75 kilometres), and the Extreme Enduro (1280 kilometres). There are also various off-road and kids events taking place. This year’s event runs on 24 November.
In late summer, why not head to Christchurch for Le Race – a 100 kilometre ride from Cathedral Square to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula. You can take on the whole distance as an individual, or as a two-person team. Alternatively, enter the Petite race, which ends at Little River for a total distance of 53 kilometres. The 2019 event will take place on Saturday 23 March.
Need bike hire for any of these events? We can supply high performance road bikes and mountain bikes. We also offer mountain bike skills training on local hills in either the South Island or North Island, so if you’re not a confident rider, or you’d like to improve your riding technique and gain an edge on the competition, get in touch today.
Have a great week,
Steve
P.S. Natural High’s Cecileah is a big fan of Spring Challenge, an all-woman adventure race. Read about her experiences in the 2017 event here.
