Challenge Wānaka Multi
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Challenge Wānaka Multi
Challenge Wānaka Multi is a multisport event in October 2026 at Lake Wānaka, New Zealand. The course combines paddling on Lake Wānaka and the Clutha River, mountain biking on local trails, and a final trail run into the town centre.
Competitors follow a sequence of three disciplines. Distances for the main multisport format are:
- 25 km kayak across Lake Wānaka and down the Clutha River, exiting at Albert Town
- 43 km mountain bike on a mix of farm track and technical single track; gravel bikes are not allowed
- 14 km trail run along the Outlet Track, finishing on the lakefront in the centre of town
There is a duathlon option that omits the kayak, and entries can be solo or team-based. The bike course lists about 85 m of elevation gain for the multisport route. Average local conditions noted for the event include an air temperature around 18°C, water temperature around 14°C, and typical wind speeds near 15 kph.
Event entries include a unique 2026 finisher medal, a finishers t-shirt, and a neoprene swim cap for participants. Wānaka is located on New Zealand’s South Island near the Southern Alps and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area; Queenstown Airport is the closest major airport, about a one hour drive away. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
