🏃♂️ Waipuna Challenge Half Marathon – Athlete Guide
Ride Holidays Raetihi Gutbuster | Saturday 18 April 2026
The Waipuna Challenge Half Marathon is a rewarding 21km road run through the rural landscapes around Raetihi and the Waipuna Valley. Expect rolling country roads, open scenery, and a great community atmosphere from start to finish.
⏰ Key Event Timings & Check-In
All athletes must complete registration prior to the event.
Friday Registration (recommended)
📍 Raetihi Information Centre | 🕔 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Saturday Morning Registration
📍 Raetihi Information Centre | 🕖 From 8.00am (before race start)
Saturday Start Times:
9.45am
👉 At registration you will receive:
Timing chip
Race bib - pin this to the front of your running top. This will have a GREEN dot attached to signify you're in the Half Marathon. See below)
Event information
🥕 Your famous Raetihi Gutbuster vege bag (fuel for the journey!)
🏁 Start & Finish – Raetihi Event Hub
Start and finish at the Waimarino Museum Event Hub.
👉 Please:
Allow time to register, collect your gear, and get organised
Be at the start line at least 10–15 minutes before the start.
Facilities on the day include:
Water and refreshments
Food stalls
Medical support
Secure bike area
Medals and Prizegiving at 1.00pm
👉 Stay around after your walk or run — great atmosphere and community vibe.
📍 Course Overview
The Waipuna Challenge Half Marathon is a 21km rural road run exploring the roads and landscapes around Raetihi and the Waipuna Valley.
Expect:
Quiet rural roads
Rolling terrain
Open country views
A clearly marked turnaround point
A shared section near the Waipuna aid station/turnaround area
🏷️ Athlete Identification & Timing
All Raetihi Gutbuster riders will be issued with:
Timing Chip – used to record your official start and finish time
Run Bib – attach to your front.
👉 Please ensure:
Your number is clearly visible at all times
You wear your assigned timing chip for the duration of the event
This helps our team with timing, safety, and identification on course.
💧 Aid Stations
There are two Aid stations
Waipuna turnaround
Valley Spin Turn (around 9km from Raetihi)(shared with the Bike Courses)
Each includes:
Water
Basic nutrition (snacks/lollies/bananas)
Support from volunteers
📱 Communication & Emergencies
Mobile coverage is limited in places
Event team uses mobile + WhatsApp groups
We have a roving Event Medic on course with the tail end sweep vehicle.
If something goes wrong:
Ensure your safety
Call 111 if urgent.
Notify Race HQ / event staff:
Rabbit 021 111 6514
⚠️ Safety & Ride Expectations
This is an open road event:
Roads remain open to the public
Normal road rules apply
Please stay aware of vehicles and other participants
Important reminders:
Run on the instructed side of the road
Follow marshal directions
Be mindful in shared areas where runners and cyclists may both be present
If you feel unwell, stop and seek assistance
🌦 What to Bring
We recommend:
Running shoes suitable for road running
Drink bottle or hydration if desired
Race-day nutrition if needed
Weather-appropriate clothing
Sun protection
💚 Final Notes
Please come prepared, allow time for registration, and enjoy the day. The Waipuna Challenge Half Marathon is all about getting out there, taking on the challenge, and enjoying the special character of Raetihi and its rural surrounds.
