See yourself, a friend or family member? Tag them and let them know they’re famous (in NZ)
Even with the rough weather rolling through over the weekend, the energy out on the course never dropped. Muddy shoes and soaked jackets to peace signs, hands in the air and determined thumbs-ups at the camera, everyone brought an incredible atmosphere to the 2026 Waitomo Trail Run!
Massive credit to all the runners, supporters, volunteers and crew who embraced the conditions and made the event what it was.
#waitomotrailrun #trailrunning #waitomo #newzealand #runnz #discoverwaitomo
What a weekend 🙌
A huge thank you to everyone who came out for The Hits Waitomo Trail Run. From our runners, joggers and walkers, supporters to the volunteers, crew, and partners who made it all happen. The energy, the atmosphere, and the turnout this year were something special.
It was incredible to see so many people taking on the challenge and making the most of everything Waitomo has to offer.
We couldn’t do it without you, and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again.
See you in 2027 🏃♂️
#waitomotrailrun #trailrun #newzealand
Thank you, trail runners! We’re so grateful to everyone who signed up for our trail run and a special shout-out to those of you who have opted to have a tree planted here in Waitomo 🌱
Your choice is helping create something that lasts far beyond race day, supporting our local environment and contributing to a greener Waitomo for years to come. Thank you for running with purpose and being part of this kaupapa.
#TrailRun #Waitomo #PlantATree #RunForGood #Kaitiakitanga
@waitomotrailrun was one of those days you will not forget!
We didn’t quite know what we were getting ourselves into and we absolutely loved it. Running through mud, pitch black caves, river crossings, hill climbs, karst formations... moments where you question your life choices and somehow also have the best time! 🤣😅
There’s something about being out there in the wild, a little challenged, soaked head to toe, that just hits different. What an epic adventure run, one for the books!
Taking on a trail run is no small feat.
Huge congratulations to Sarah and Otis at @theluckytaco_nz for completing the @waitomotrailrun .
And they didn’t stop there - adding to the challenge, they suited up in wetsuits to do the Black Labyrinth at @legendaryblackwaterraftingco .
A huge weekend, and no doubt some unforgettable memories made.
The Waitomo Trail Run Prize giving will be at the Waitomo Homestead (584 SH3) from 5pm.
Bar and café will be open all day.
Free face painting from 2pm – 5pm.
The spectacular Wai Taiko drummers will perform from 4.30pm.
Lots of spot prizes up for grabs, including an Apple Watch proudly sponsored by Spark, plus a weekend away for two including ensuite accommodation at the Homestead, Waitomo Glowworm Caves tickets, and Ruakuri Cave tickets.
Conditions on the courses may be wet and slippery and there may be potential course changes but they’re just as awesome as the original route. Original transport options remain the same so just show up as normal and any changes will be communicated to you on the day by marshals and race director.
Happy days!
#waitomotrailrun #trailrunning #waitomo
Trail Run is almost here 🏃♂️ Here’s everything you need to know before race day:
📍 Start & Finish
5km: Ruakuri → Glowworm Caves
11km: Stubbs Farm loop
23km: Mangapohue → Stubbs Farm
35km: Mangapohue → Glowworm Caves
🚌 Transport
5km, 23km & 35km runners must catch the free shuttle from Waitomo Domain (23km includes return).
🚗 Parking
5km, 23km & 35km: Waitomo Domain
11km: Stubbs Farm (970 Te Anga Rd)
⚠️ Race Day Essentials
Race numbers must be visible at all times
11km+: waterproof jacket + thermal layer
23km & 35km: head torch required
All shoes + gear must be checked at registration
🕒 Registration
Waitomo Homestead
Fri: 4–8pm
Sat: 5:30am–12pm
Weather’s looking a bit unpredictable… but we all know how quickly that can change 👀
More info: waitomotrailrun.co.nz
🎉 BIG WINNER ALERT! 🎉
Our $500 Waitomo Homestead shopping spree winner is… Thomas Waterman!
Huge congrats, Thomas! Send us a message to claim your prize—then get ready to hit the aisles on the 18th of April and go wild! 🛍️
#WaitomoTrailRun #LikeAndWin #RunWaitomo #TrailRunningNZ #AdventureAwaits
