The first Tararua Mountain Race was held in 1990. It has been run every year since.

A small group of local runners wanted to have their own event on the mountain running calendar. It is now well established, attracting runners form all over the country and more recently from overseas.

The one thing that makes this event unique is having first time participants running as a team of two. This is a safety requirement, because this event is tough and challenging (especially the extreme weather conditions) but some fun can be had by sharing it with your running partner. The views can be fantastic, but only the very fit or insane contemplate running all of it.

"I have done 12 Tararua Mountain Races, plus heaps of other runs, and overall I would rate the Tararua Mountain Race, the best little mountain race in New Zealand and the most challenging of the lot; that includes the Kepler Challenge…; Abel Tasman Coastal Classic…; Croesus Crossing…; Captain Cook's Landing… Kaweka Challenge… Jumbo/Holdsworth Trail Race (a damn fine run in its own right but doesn't have the length)… "

Keith Frankum

Our Principal Sponsors

Vasque is the major sponsor for this event; in conjunction with Bridgedale.

Touted as New Zealand's hardest mountain run, the Tararua Mountain Race is the kind of event where the best equipment can make all the difference. When the going gets tough you notice the difference your gear makes and Vasque shoes and Bridgedale socks not only live up to the challenge but thrive on it; helping you to obtain your best result possible.

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