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SWIM COURSE
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Run course elevation
Ride the Challenge Wānaka course on Rouvy. ROUVY is the go-to indoor cycling app for triathletes, offering a realistic indoor cycling experience on video courses. Every ROUVY session allows triathletes to practice on gradient-precise courses to build fitness, confidence and muscle memory.
Challenge Wānaka is New Zealand’s largest triathlon festival, featuring events for over 2,500 participants from top professional to age group athletes from all over the world on a course that is like no other. Set in the heart of the town on the shores of Lake Wānaka, the event boasts a stunning backdrop of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The swim is in the tranquil waters of Lake Wānaka and the bike course is a an honest three-lap out and back along the water’s edge. The run has spectacular views of Lake Wānaka as it winds along the lake front. Thousands of spectators come out to cheer on the competitors and experience the jam packed expo.
Challenge Wānaka isn’t just a race – it’s an experience set in one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka is a natural playground surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, alpine vistas, and wide open spaces make it a destination worth the journey – for athletes and supporters alike.
Looking for background information and all answers to your questions?
The event has complied a list of all Frequently Asked Questions to help you prepare in the best way possible.
The Puzzling World Junior Challenge is a highlight of the Challenge Wānaka Festival of Triathlon, welcoming hundreds of enthusiastic young athletes from Years 1 to 6. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve raced before, this event offers a fun, safe, and supportive environment for kids to take on the challenge and experience the thrill of triathlon.
We’re proud to be recognised as Challenge Family’s 2024 Most Eco-Friendly Race, a reflection of our ongoing efforts to protect the incredible lakes, mountains, and ecosystems that make Wānaka so special.
Challenge Wānaka isn’t just a race – it’s an experience set in one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka is a natural playground surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, alpine vistas, and wide open spaces make it a destination worth the journey.
Unique 2026 medal for all our particpants, including for all our side events.
Also unique 2026 finishers t-shirt for all our finishers on all different events.
High quality neoprene, something for all the family.
No sports available.
Challenge Wānaka isn’t just a race – it’s an experience set in one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka is a natural playground surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, alpine vistas, and wide open spaces make it a destination worth the journey – for athletes and supporters alike.
Challenge Wānaka isn’t just a race – it’s an experience set in one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka is a natural playground surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, alpine vistas, and wide open spaces make it a destination worth the journey – for athletes and supporters alike.
Challenge Wānaka isn’t just a race – it’s an experience set in one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka is a natural playground surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, alpine vistas, and wide open spaces make it a destination worth the journey – for athletes and supporters alike.
“I am passionate about Challenge and what it means for our community. I love the inclusivity of Challenge – ranging from the pro athletes to the primary children and even pre-schoolers. The recent addition of the Adaptive event and the Cross Tri mean that nearly anyone can take part. I’m looking forward to exploring new ways to further develop Challenge Wanaka in our community.”