Paparoa Ultra
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Paparoa Ultra
The Paparoa Ultra is a community-run trail event centred on the Paparoa Track and Punakaiki area. The main event covers the full length of the Paparoa Track as an ultra marathon of 55km, and there is a separate 1.5km Kids Fun Run.
The ultra is limited to 200 competitors and is described as remote, technically rugged, and mostly self-supported with only three aid stations located near huts at 10.3km (Ces Clark), 20km (Moonlight Tops) and 39.1km (Pororari). Aid stations provide water refills, electrolytes, snacks and a first-aid trained marshal; competitors are required to start with a full drinking vessel. There is a permanent boil water notice at the huts and purification tablets can be used.
Entries for 2027 open on 1 September 2026 with an entry fee of $415 NZD; Afterpay is available and a small non-refundable card fee applies via the registration platform. Registration, compulsory gear checks and a pre-race safety briefing take place the day before the race at Barrytown Settlers Hall. Compulsory gear includes a drinking vessel, extra nutrition, thermal layers, seam-sealed waterproof jacket and pants, hat, gloves, head torch, survival blanket, basic first aid kit, race number and transponder.
The event provides shuttle services between Punakaiki, the race start and the finish area, limited parking at finish locations, a post-race prizegiving and community activities including food vendors and a kids race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
