A World Class Ultra
in a World Class destination
26 April 2026 • Wanaka, New Zealand
ULTRA WANAKA
Fast, runnable trail racing around the Upper Clutha River and Lake Wanaka
Built for First Ultras
Runnable, well maintained trails and multiple aid stations make this the perfect first ultra experience. Challenge yourself and earn every kilometre.
Fast & Scenic
Flowing single track along the Upper Clutha River and Wanaka lakefront. Fast times on stunning terrain, a rare combination.
World-Class Destination
Make it a weekend in Wanaka. Mountains, lakes, restaurants and adventure, New Zealand’s outdoor playground at its finest.
Choose Your Distance
From first time trail runners to seasoned ultra athletes, there's a course for everyone
21 km
- 150m
A beautiful trail half marathon winding around the start of the mighty Clutha river, whether going for a PB or achieving your first half marathon.
11.5 km
- 40m
The shorter, accessible trail run finishing on the lakefront. Ideal for newer runners, road runners curious about trails or those wanting to be part of race day without committing to a longer distance.
The Ultra Wanaka Experience
Ultra Wanaka is built to showcase one of the most stunning places on Earth. The courses follow well-formed public tracks through the Upper Clutha River and along the Lake Wanaka shoreline, offering long runnable sections and uninterrupted rhythm from start to finish.
Every detail is designed with runners and the environment in mind. Cupless aid stations keep things efficient and reduce waste. Clear course marking removes guesswork. Volunteers and course marshals positioned throughout the course so support is there when it’s needed, without getting in the way of the race.
Whether you’re stepping into ultra distance for the first time or lining up with years of experience, Ultra Wanaka is designed to let you focus on the run and nothing else.
Upper Clutha Tracks Trust
The courses at Ultra Wanaka are only possible because of the extraordinary work of the Upper Clutha Tracks Trust (UCTT), a local charitable trust dedicated to developing and caring for a world class network of public tracks around Wānaka and the Upper Clutha Basin.
Since its founding in 2006, the Trust has been instrumental in protecting, building, and sustaining trails that bring people outdoors, whether you’re running, walking, biking or simply exploring nature.
Their vision is simple but powerful: a connected, high quality trail network that enhances health, well being and everyday life for locals and visitors alike. From easy lakeside paths and commuter links to adventurous back country excursions, the tracks they help create shape the landscape of recreation in our region.
Without the dedication of the UCTT’s volunteers, partners, and supporters, the Ultra Wanaka experience wouldn’t exist.
We’re proud to run on tracks built and cared for by this passionate community trust. If you would like to support the Trust, please scan the QR code or donate here.
Race Day Logistics
We handle the details so you can focus on running.
Shuttles
Free shuttle buses from the finish line to the start lines. Easy, stress free race morning.
Cupless & Rubbish Free
Bring your own collapsible cup or flasks. We provide refill stations, you help us protect this beautiful environment.
Safety & Support
Full medical coverage, course marshals and clear course marking. Run with confidence.
Make it a weekend
Stay in Wanaka
Wanaka is a town built around the outdoors. Trails, water and mountains sit right on the doorstep, with easy access to river paths, lakefront trails and the wider Upper Clutha network.
Arriving early gives you time to explore and relax before race day. After the finish, it’s just as easy to slow things down, walk the lakefront, eat well and recover properly. Hampshire Holiday Parks Accommodation sits close to the finish area, keeping logistics simple for runners and supporters alike.
