93%Match
21
NOV
OFF-ROAD
Hunt 1000
Canberra
1000 KMS
23000M
All Events
Tour Te Waipounamu
Difficulty Profile
TERRAIN
CLIMBING
HEAT
1300 km
Distance
21500 m
Elevation
Off-Road
Surface
Extreme
Difficulty
What to Expect on Tour Te Waipounamu
The land between the Southern Alps and the plains of the South Island of New Zealand is mostly occupied by the high country stations. I’ve explored this region by bike in the past and always wanted to connect a route through this awesome landscape. After many evenings examining Google Earth, reading horse trekking blogs and searching 4WD and off-road motorbike chat sites I came up with the initial route.
I thought about what experience I wanted to create for myself and others. The route changed, it got harder, it got easier, it got harder again. I spent forever chasing up contact details for landowners and even longer trying to get in touch with them. I sent a proposal out to riders whose opinions I valued. The route changed again.
And here it is; the Tour Te Waipounamu, a bikepacking race the length of the South Island of New Zealand/ Aotearoa.
Bike Setup for Tour Te Waipounamu
Bike
Hardtail MTB
Tires
2.2-2.4" Tubeless
Cassette
10-52T
Chainring
30-32T (1x)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Tour Te Waipounamu?
At 1300 km with 21500 m of elevation gain, Tour Te Waipounamu is roughly the distance of 31 marathons back to back, with climbing that adds up to more than 2.4 times the height of Mount Everest.
What bike do I need?
A Hardtail MTB is the right tool for Tour Te Waipounamu. Set it up with 2.2-2.4" Tubeless rubber and gear it low — a 30-32T (1x) chainring and 10-52T cassette will keep you spinning on the steeper sections.
How difficult is it?
Expect a Extreme-tier challenge at Tour Te Waipounamu — consistently demanding, with sustained climbing climbing over seriously technical, unforgiving terrain throughout, with mild and generally comfortable weather typical for the time of year.
When does it take place?
Mark your calendar for January 25, 2026 — Tour Te Waipounamu's summer timing means with long daylight hours, though heat can become a real factor.
What surface is it?
Tour Te Waipounamu's route is off-road. Plan your tire choice around 2.2-2.4" Tubeless for the best combination of speed and comfort.