Choose your event...and come for the fun
The Raetihi Gutbuster offers a range of exciting run, road bike, mountain bike, and e-bike options to challenge and inspire you in our unique and welcoming landscape. Pick your event from the options below, secure your entry, book your accommodation, and kickstart your training – the adventure awaits!
We can’t wait to welcome you to Raetihi this April for an unforgettable day of fitness, fun, and community spirit!
Event Schedule - Entry Fees
Event Day: Saturday 18 April 2026| Waimarino Museum - Raetihi
A market day atmosphere with food and beverage stalls and local crafts will greet you at the Waimarino Museum. Perfect for ensuring your support crew are entertained and your post event needs are taken care of.
What | Distance | Start Time | Entry Fee | Late Entries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Raetihi 88 | 88km | 8.30am | $160+fee | $180+fee |
Gutbuster Classic 52kms | 52km | 9.00am | $90 + fee | $105 + fee |
Valley Spin 20kms | 20kms | 9.30am | $50+fee | $55+fee |
- Road/Mountain Bike or E - MTB* Out back along Mangaeturoa South Rd | ||||
Waipuna Challenge Half Marathon Run only | 21km | 9.45am | $60 + fee | $65 + fee |
5km Raetihi Rambler (All ages, teams and dress up options) | 5km | 10.30am | $15+ fee | $20+ fee |
PRIZE GIVING Waimarino Museum Event Base. Live results online | 1.00pm | |||
REGISTRATION Waimarino Museum | Friday night | 5.00pm - 7.00pm |
Event processing fee applies ($1 plus 5.5%, (e.g., $4 on the 50k cycle, and $1.75 on the local fun run))
Late entry fees apply for onsite Saturday registrations.
5km Fun run - local schools discount applies, please check with your school.
Things to Note:
Road distances are approximate.
Compulsory race briefings for all events are 5 minutes before the race starts.
Cash and ATMBring cash for food & merchandise. Caltex in Raetihi has an ATM machine which is open 7am – 7pm
Everyone WinsComplete your chosen event to receive a unique finishers medal and a bag of local veggies! Great spot prizes up for grabs provided by our local businesses
Race TimingRacetime will be taking care of timing - with live results throughout the event.
Unexpected WeatherSome weather conditions may result in the use of contingency or shortened courses. This is for the safety of all competitors and event support volunteers.
Questions?
Scroll down for answers to our Frequently Asked Questions. If there is something else you need to know contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.
Registration / Check In
Registrations will be at the Raetihi Information Centre, 46 Seddon St, Raetihi, on Friday evening 4pm - 8.30pm and on Saturday morning from 8am, Everyone receives a bag of local vegetables when registered.
Riders doing the Raetihi 88 from Whanganui can collect their registration packs from The Bike Shed in Whanganui (70 Ridgway St) on Friday from 3pm - 5pm. (TBC) - this may change to at the Startline prior to the race - we will be in touch.
Prize Giving
Prizegiving for all events will be at 1pm, near the start/finish line. First placegetters will receive a prize and there will be spot prizes as well. Everyone who completes their event receives a medal.
Toilets
These are next to the Waimarino Museum, near the start/finish line and at the public shelter in Pipiriki. There are no toilets on the half marathon or 5km courses.
There are also toilets at the start line, Matahiwi and at Hiruhārama (Jerusalem) on the Raetihi 88 Course)
Bag Drop
There will be a bag storage service at the Waimarino Museum for a gold coin donation.
Riders doing the Raetihi 88 will have their gear bags transported back to Raetihi from the start line, waiting for your return.
Aid Stations on course
Aid stations are located at the following locations:
Matahiwi (~39km)
Pipiriki (~62km)
Waipuna (~72km)
Aid stations will have water, lollies and bananas along with some friendly support from the locals.
Aid stations are there to support you, but should not be relied on as your only source of fuel. Take anything you prefer on your run/ride.
What type of bike can I ride for the event?
Road, MTB or E-bikes may be used. E-bikes and standard bikes have categories.
Getting to the Startline on the Raetihi 88
All riders will be transported to the startline on the Saturday morning by shuttle (and bike trailer).
If you are coming from Whanganui, we have a limited number of spaces so you can start at the startline and get shuttled back to Upokongaro at the end of prizegiving. Please let us know if you wish to take up that option. (You will also be able to register at The Bike Shed in Whanganui on Friday)
Gear List
There is no compulsory gear list, but it is recommended that you have a rain jacket as the weather can be changeable. Check the forecast and dress to the conditions.
If you're doing the bike ride, we suggest being self-sufficient for any unexpected punctures and mechanicals. Don't forget your helmet and water bottles!
Race Bibs and Timing Chips
All running competitors will be given a race bib with an integrated timing chip. Race bibs should be worn on the front of your race day top (so we can cheer you on).
Cyclists will receive a timing chip (to be secured to their front fork), helmet sticker and bike number. (check at registration for detailed instructions). Please note if you lose your timing chip, you may be charged a $100 replacement fee by Race Timing NZ
Road traffic
Roads and streets are still OPEN to traffic so please take care and be aware of traffic. We will have warning signs out to remind any traffic to take care and expect runners and cyclists.
Can I bring my dog?
NO Dogs are allowed on any of the courses for the safety of confidence of all participants.
Where should I park?
There is plenty of parking along Duncan St, Raetihi, as well as other side streets. There is parking in the yard next to Ruapehu District Council on Duncan St
Can I buy food at the event venue?
We will have food stalls at the event base and there are also two cafes and a take away shop in Raetihi. Hangi available by preorder (see newsletter)
Bike Parking on the Day
We have a limited number of bike racks at the Event Hub for parking your bike after the event - it will be coned off in a confined area - but is at owners risk.
What if I have to withdraw before the event?
Competitors will receive a full refund less a $10 admin fee if we are notified of their inability to compete by midnight 31 March.
Refunds after this date until midnight 04 April will be reimbursed at 50% entry fee.
There are no refunds from midnight 04 April until race day.
Entries cannot be transferred to future years.
If you wish to make changes to your entry (e.g. change of name or other alteration), a $20 admin fee MAY apply. You must inform the Event Directors of any changes or withdrawals.
These policies are applicable in ALL circumstances, please do not ask for exceptions.
Where can I find the results?
Live race results will be available on a live link here on the day.
Looking for the results of past events - check them out here.
Safety on the day
We have a full safety plan for you and our volunteers on the day. Check this page out for full details
