Challenge

Wānaka Multi

WHEN

WHERE

The Challenge Wānaka Multisport event is an exhilarating off-road adventure set against the stunning backdrop of Wānaka’s rugged terrain.

5 reasons to race – Challenge Wānaka Multi

18°C

Avg. air temperature

14°C

Avg. water temperature

15 KPH

wind speed

Lake

SWIM COURSE

550M

Bike course elevation

85M

Run course elevation

Multisport Tri together option available

25 km Kayak
25 km Kayak
43 km MTB
43 km MTB
14 km Trail
14 km Trail

Rouvy

Rouvy

Ride the Challenge Wānaka Multi 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.

ABOUT THE RACE

RACE INFORMATION

Competitors take on a 25km kayak across the pristine waters of Lake Wānaka, followed by a 43km mountain bike (no gravel bikes allowed) through diverse trails, and finish with a 14km trail run showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes. For those who prefer to stay on land, the duathlon option allows participants to skip the kayak and tackle just the bike and run. Whether solo or in a team, this event promises an epic challenge in one of the world’s most scenic multisport destinations.

accommodation

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.

Race day tips

Side events

How to Get There

Wānaka is easily accessible via several travel options. The closest airport is Queenstown Airport, about a one-hour drive away, with direct flights from major New Zealand cities and international connections via Auckland, Sydney, and Melbourne.

About Lake Wānaka

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.

Whats in your entry

Medal

Unique 2026 medal for all our particpants, including for all our side events.

t-shirt

Also unique 2026 finishers t-shirt for all our finishers on all different events.

swim cap

High quality neoprene, something for all the family.

Best practice

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Multisport

25 km Kayak
25 km Kayak
43 km MTB
43 km MTB
14 km Trail
14 km Trail

Rouvy

No sports available.

Time schedule

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.

Join the community

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.

Latest news

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.

Race courses

swim course

Kayak across Lake Wanaka and down the Clutha River, exiting at Albert Town

bike course

A mix of farm track and technical single track

run course

Run along the scenic Outlet Track before finishing on the lakefront in the centre of town

Race director

Jane Sharman