ULTRA WANAKA 11.5km
11.5km Race Details
Sunday, April 26th, 2026
The 11.5 km Ultra Wanaka course offers a fast, scenic route that delivers the full Ultra Wanaka experience in a shorter, highly runnable format.
The race starts at Hīkūwai Conservation Area, where runners join the Outlet Track and follow smooth, well formed trails toward Lake Wanaka. This section is flat and flowing, making it ideal for relaxed pacing, first time racers or those looking to enjoy the scenery without pressure.
From early on, the course runs alongside Lake Wanaka, with open water and mountain views featuring throughout. The final kilometres follow the lakefront paths past Beacon Point, finishing with a flat, fast run beside the lake to the line.
The 11.5 km is well suited to new runners, those returning to racing or anyone looking for a scenic, confidence building race that still carries the atmosphere and energy of Ultra Wanaka.
Race Details
- Distance: 11.5km
- Run or Walk
- Race Start: 10am
- Date: 26th April, 2026
- Start: Hīkūwai Conservation Area, Wanaka
- Finish: Lakefront Wanaka
- Mandatory Bus to the start line for all Participants
- Cutoff: All 11.5km athletes must finish the course by 2pm
- Minimum age: 14 on Race day
- Medals: All finishers receive a medal
Pricing
- Early Bird: $70, ends 1st March
- Standard: $90, 2nd March to 12th April
- Late Entry: $109, from 13th April
Recommended Gear
We recommend you carry the following:
- Long sleeved thermal
- Waterproof, Seam sealed jacket
- Flask/camel pack with capacity for a minimum of 600ml of fluid
Aid Stations
- 6.5km - Food, hydration, toilet
Mandatory Buses to the Start line
There is no event parking at the start line on Hīkūwai Conservation Area on the morning of the event, the DOC carpark will be closed.
All athletes must use the official event buses to reach the start line
All buses depart from the lakefront finish area and are included in your entry price. Boarding checks will be in place to ensure only registered participants access the start area.
Buses will leave the lake front from 08:30am for the 11.5km
Athletes are asked to arrive early and allow time for boarding
This system helps minimise congestion, protect the environment at Hīkūwai Conservation Are, and ensure a smooth, stress free start for everyone.
Spectators
Supporters can see athletes along the lakefront path at Beacon Point and Bremner Bay, where the course winds along side the lake before heading toward the finish.
Spectators are asked to stay off the course, follow any signage or marshal instructions and respect other shared path users at all times.