The Challenge Wānaka Multisport event is an exhilarating off-road adventure set against the stunning backdrop of Wānaka’s rugged terrain.

The Challenge Wanaka Multi event features a 25km kayak, 43km mountain bike and a 14km trail run. Or you can skip the kayak and sign up for our duathlon option.

Competitors take on a 25km kayak across the pristine waters of Lake Wānaka, followed by a 43km mountain bike through diverse trails, and finish with a 14km trail run showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes. For those who prefer to stay on land, the duathlon option allows participants to skip the kayak and tackle just the bike and run. Whether solo or in a team, this event promises an epic challenge in one of the world’s most scenic multisport destinations.

Event details and schedule

Part of the legendary Challenge Family global series of middle distance triathlons, renowned the world over for their memorable events, Challenge Wanaka is the race of a lifetime for athletes wanting to compete and holiday in paradise.

Watch over 1,500 top professional and amateur athletes from all over the globe compete on the world’s most scenic course in the 1.9km swim in crystal clear waters, the 90km bike alongside an alpine lake and the 21.1km run around Lake Wanaka’s stunning landcape.

The festival includes the Junior and Intermediate Challenges for budding triathletes aged six to fifteen, the Adaptive and Secondary Schools Challenge.

The week culminates with the flagship Challenge Wanaka race on Saturday which features both the middle distance race and Aquabike race. Thousands of spectators line the route and finish chute cheering on these inspirational contenders as they compete in the most arduous of the triathlon disciplines.