8th annual Tarawera Ultramarathon –Rotorua to Kawerau (North Island, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand)
Date: Saturday, 6 February 2015. Waitangi Day.
Start time: 6am
Location: Start line – The Redwoods Visitors Centre, Rotorua (central North Island). Finish line – Firmin Field, Kawerau.
Embarking on New Zealand’s most esteemed ultramarathon in the centre of the North Island, surrounded by Geothermal
activity and stunning lakes, 1250 national and international trail runners, including some of the world’s best, will
take off on a 100km trail running event like no other in the Tarawera Ultramarathon on New Zealand’s national day, 6
February 2016.
The spectacular point-to-point course from Rotorua to Kawerau has recently been included in the Ultra-Trail World Tour -
a series of the 11 most prestigious ultra-running races in the world.
The race is a journey through some of New Zealand’s best kept secrets with views of four beautiful lakes as well as
flowing streams and stunning waterfalls. Starting at Rotorua’s world-renowned Whakarewarewa Forest, runners make their
way past the picturesque Blue Lake, onto Lake Okareka and then to the Western Okataina Walkway. Then making their way to
the Eastern Okataina Track, over the saddle between Okataina and Lake Tarawera, runners arrive at the Tarawera Fall’s
track – one of the best walking trails in New Zealand. Coming out on to a deserted forestry road, runners then follow
the river until they reach Firmin Field, Kawerau.
The Tarawera Ultramarathon is not just a race, it’s a whole week experience where events and gatherings forge lifelong
friendship and unforgettable moments. Leading up to race day on the 6th, athletes, volunteers, media and event
organisers will get to know one another during the Paradise Valley meet and greet, the Lake Tarawera boat trip and the
Te Puia fun run and VIP hāngī dinner.
Presenting athletes with their ultimate challenge, the Tarawera Ultra is not for the faint hearted and even the fittest
athletes will be pushed to their limits, both physically and mentally.
So make your own adventure and become part of the spectacle that is the Tarawera Ultramarathon.
For media accreditation, please register your details online here Further media resources VIP tour details will be sent to accredited media.
ENDS