The XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series consists of a series of trail running and walking events held in or around the Auckland region of New Zealand. The series has multiple races of varying distances and difficulty levels, catering to participants of different fitness levels and abilities.
Trail running and walking events are popular among outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of exploring natural landscapes while challenging their physical endurance. Participants navigate through rugged terrains, including dirt trails, uneven surfaces, and elevation changes, which adds an additional element of excitement and adventure to the race.
The Trail Run/Walk Series has specific age group categories for participants. The age categories are as follows:
Members of all age groups are encouraged to join and participate so that they can support a healthy lifestyle and have fun in the process. For children under the age of 11, it is recommended that they participate with a parent or guardian who can walk/run alongside them for the entirety of the course.
Nestled at the entrance of the impressive Waikato River, you’ll find the enchanting Waiuku Forest, a hidden gem often overlooked by many. The forest is adorned with majestic pine trees and offers well-maintained trails covered in firm, sand-based surfaces that minimize impact.
The courses at Waiuku Forest offer a unique experience as they are slightly longer than usual, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the breathtaking vistas that span across the Tasman Sea, Port Waikato, and the magnificent mouth of the Waikato River. Read on to learn about how you can join us at this exciting event!
The run takes place on Sunday, August 13th, 2023 from 8:30 to 14:30. Please ensure your presence at the mandatory event briefings held 15 minutes prior to each event start time. The schedule for the different events is as follows:
To register for the event, you must first purchase the necessary tickets from the vendor. During this process, you must select which of the courses you wish to run and the age group of those running. Remember to bring your own cups, bottles, or hydration packs as disposable cups will not be provided at drinking stations.
We offer several different types of courses for patrons to experience and explore. Below you will find a brief summary of each of these so that you may pick whichever is your preferred length of style.
The short course of the XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series covers a distance of 8 kilometres with a total climb of 73 metres. The course begins with a quick start along Elders Road, leading participants into the first playful forest trail. Emerging onto the beach, you will head northeast, relishing the invigorating winter air. Returning to the forest, the course winds northwest through woods and metal roads towards the Aid Station. Not long after passing the aid station, you’ll have the opportunity to splash through the famous Waiuku mud puddle. As you make your way back, replenish your energy with some R-Line Electrolyte Drink and hasten down the metal road, through the final trail section, and towards the finish line. Along the route, there are designated drink stations at the 3-kilometre, 5-kilometre, and 6.5-kilometre marks. These stations provide R-Line electrolyte drink, water, chips, pretzels, and lollies. The course’s toughness factor is rated as 5 out of 10, indicating a moderate level of difficulty.
The mid-course of the XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series spans 12 kilometres, with a total climb of 110 metres. The course begins with a brisk start along Elders Road, leading participants into the first playful forest trail. Emerging onto the beach, you will head northeast, relishing the refreshing winter air. As you re-enter the forest, an aid station awaits along the route, marking the start of your journey winding northwest through woods. This section encompasses a mix of metal road and trail terrain. At the last aid station, replenish your energy with some R-Line Electrolyte Drink before dashing back down the metal road, through the final trail section, and crossing the finish line.
Savor your achievement with hot chips and cold beer once you complete the trail. There are designated drink stations along the course, positioned at the 3.9-kilometre, 8.9-kilometre, and 10.4-kilometre marks. These stations offer R-Line electrolyte drink, water, chips, pretzels, and lollies. The mid course is rated with a toughness factor of 5 out of 10, indicating a moderate level of difficulty.
The long course of the XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series is a 19-kilometre route exclusively for runners. It presents a total climb of 344 metres and offers an elevation profile that can be viewed by clicking here. The course kicks off with a rapid start as you navigate along Elders Road, swiftly transitioning into the first playful forest trail. Exiting onto the beach, you’ll head northeast, relishing the invigorating winter air.
Re-entering the forest, an aid station awaits along the route, marking the start of your journey winding northwest through the woods. This section combines a mix of metal road and trail surfaces. At the aid station, replenish your energy with some R-Line Electrolyte Drink before ascending over the sand drifts into the northern part of the course. As you embark on a small climb, a delightful surprise awaits at the top.
A speedy trail section leads to the second aid station where you rejoin with the super long course runners and commence the epic sandy downhill stretch. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views as this segment is a favourite among participants. Upon reaching the bottom, you’ll make a left turn, traversing the woods and gravel road alongside the beach, conquering the final hill. From there, it’s a dash down the metal road, through the last trail section, and into the finish line.
There are designated drink stations along the course, positioned at the 3.9-kilometre, 8.9-kilometre, 12.6-kilometre, and 17.6-kilometre marks. The long course has a toughness factor rating of 7 out of 10, indicating a relatively challenging level of difficulty.
Entry fees vary depending on the course you select, the length of the course, and the age of the participant. For an up-to-date list of prices and the latest trail tickets that are available for sale, we recommend reading the XTERRA entry fees on their website.
There is nothing required of you to be done before the event besides your own personal training and arriving to the course on time for the event.
To prepare yourself for the physical challenges of the event, it is essential for both newcomers and experienced athletes to engage in training beforehand. Here are some valuable tips to support you on your training journey.
Firstly, it is crucial to set realistic goals based on the race category you have selected. While the desire to push your limits may be strong, it is important to resist that urge and establish achievable milestones that align with your capabilities.
Secondly, consider seeking guidance from a professional running coach, especially if you are new to the sport. Their expertise and experience will enable them to create a tailored training plan that suits your individual abilities and goals.
Lastly, ensure that you maintain a well-balanced diet, focusing on consuming nutritious meals that include an adequate amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and sufficient hydration through water intake. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in providing your body with the energy and sustenance it requires during training sessions and on the day of the race.
