The 24km Hanmer Adventure Run course is a true alpine trail experience, taking you high into the hills and over Mt Isobel – the most climbed peak in the Canterbury region. With 1,587m of vertical gain and 90% trail terrain, this is a run that challenges your legs and rewards your senses.
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The course weaves through native bush, open ridgelines, and rocky singletrack before descending back toward the village finish. It’s a mountain journey packed into one day – and when you return to Hanmer Springs, there’s one last thing to do: ring the 1879 historic fire station bell and celebrate your effort.

Saturday 17 January 2026

Distance: 24.12km 
Elevation Gain: ​1545m
Suitable for: Runners & Walkers
Start time: From 9:30am 
Start & Finish location​: Soliders' Block, Amuri Avenue 
Minimum Age: 16 years of age
Price: Pricing info here
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More Information
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Mandatory GEAR

All athletes may be required to carry mandatory gear during the race. For details, please refer to the Mandatory Gear page.

Timing, Results​, PRIZES & Medals

Results
Timing results will be based on net time.

Finisher Medal
All athletes who complete the course within the allocated time are considered a finisher and will receive a finisher medal. 
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Award Category
The following age groups for men & women, age is taken on event date.

• 16 - 29 years of age
• 30 -39 years of age
• 40 -49 years of age
• 50 -59 years of age
• 60+ years of age
• Open, Walk Only

​Awards (Category) 
The top 3 men and women of each age group are awarded prizes and medals at prize giving, the athlete must be present to claim the prize.  See the schedule for time.

​Awards (Overall) 
The top 3 men and women overall are awarded prizes,the athlete must be present to claim the prize.  See the schedule for time.

1st	Free Entry for the 2027 event
2nd	Free Entry for the 2027 event
3rd	Free Entry for the 2027 event

Aid Stations

Aid stations are located on course,  please refer to the Aid Station page. The 24km Adventure Run has the following aid stations:

• Pawsons Aid Station
  • Distance: 4.56km
  • Supplies: Water, PURE Gels & Electrolyte, Cliff bars
  • Support crew welcome
• Waterfall Aid Station (drop bag location)
  • Distance: 18.63km
  • Supplies: Water, PURE Gels & Electrolytes, Cliff Bars, Bananas, Oranges, Chips (mixed flavours), Sandwiches with choice of chocolate spread or jam, Jet-Planes, Brownie, Coke, Ginger Beer
  • Support crew welcome, but no vehicle access. Supporters must walk or bike in.

Cut off Pace & Locations

The total allowable time is 6 hours 43 minutes.

Course cut-offs are in place for athlete safety and event management. They account for terrain, weather, and the slowest allowed average pace.
Athletes who fall behind the cut-off pace will be stopped at checkpoints and removed from the race. A team will transport you back to the venue. Additional cut-offs may apply in adverse weather.  

Cut off pace required. 3.6km/h or 16:06 mins/km.
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• Cut off Check point #1      
  • 2:40pm @ Waterfall aid station 18.6km
• Cut off Check point #2
  • 4:13pm @ Finish Line

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Suitable for Runners and Walkers, the 24km Adventure Run is a bold, high-country challenge designed for trail runners ready to take on technical terrain, big climbs, and even bigger views, without going ultra. Starting in the heart of Hanmer Springs, the course sends you straight into the Southern Alps with a climb to the summit of Mt Isobel (1,319m), Canterbury’s most climbed peak. From there, the route takes you across exposed ridgelines, native forest, and rugged trail, before dropping you into the valley below.You’ll descend the technical Waterfall Track, refuel at the base, and then tackle rolling fire roads through Hanmer Forest. A splash through the Percival River adds a touch of adventure before you wind your way through the century-old trees of the Heritage Forest.
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Course Map

GPX FIle