This Content Is Only For Subscribers
The Hits Waitomo Trail Run is set to return on April 18, showcasing one of New Zealand’s most distinctive natural landscapes while drawing visitors into the region.
Held in the Waitomo, the event combines trail running with access to areas not typically open to the public, including limestone valleys, native forest and cave systems.
Events supporting regional visitation
The event offers four distances — 5km, 11km, 23km and 35km — catering to a wide range of participants, from competitive runners to families.
Organisers say many attendees travel to Waitomo specifically for the event, contributing to visitor activity across accommodation, hospitality and local attractions.
Showcasing unique landscapes
Courses pass through a mix of farmland, bush and cave environments, including the Mangapohue Natural Tunnel and DOC-managed tracks along the Marokopa River.
The 5km course begins inside Ruakuri Cave, offering a distinctive experience that highlights the region’s natural assets.
Encouraging longer stays
Events such as the trail run are increasingly used to drive regional dispersal and extend visitor stays, particularly outside peak periods.
Participants are encouraged to explore local attractions, including the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and surrounding cave network, alongside guided adventure experiences in the area.
