Rocky Point Run
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Rocky Point Trail Run : Tauranga Bay to Carters Beach
The Rocky Point Trail Run is an annual trail running and walking event held along sections of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail between Westport area locations and Carters Beach. Proceeds from the event support maintenance and enhancement of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail.
The event offers four distances and courses that use recently opened sections of the coastal trail. Course surfaces include well-groomed cycle trail, boardwalk through native bush and wetlands, farmland tracks, and coastal paths with views toward the Paparoa Range and the Tasman Sea. Some sections include suspension swing bridges; marshals control bridge crossings and a maximum of ten people are allowed on those bridges at any one time. Road crossings of SH67 and other local roads are marshalled and may require runners to wait for safe passage.
Logistics and safety features include:
- 5 km run or walk starting from the Buller Bridge car park
- 12.5 km route along the Tauranga Bay, Omau and Kawau sections
- 22.5 km route beginning near Virgin Flat Road then joining the Kawatiri Coastal Trail
- a longer coastal route starting at Constant Bay and following the trail to Carters Beach
Aid stations are spaced no more than 6 km apart and provide water and half strength Tailwind in paper cups. Competitors must wear an official race number; no other compulsory equipment is listed, though appropriate clothing is encouraged. Race packs are collected from Trail HQ prior to the compulsory race briefing. Drop-bags are transported from start to finish. Volunteers and tail-end support provide marshals and first-aid coverage on course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.