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Course Overview

Runners and walkers will pass through the legendary Waitomo tunnel, across karst-studded farm landscapes, lush DOC reserves and through canyons and caverns on private farmland.

The two longest distances start at Mangapohue Natural Bridge, and traverses the most unique  geological line in New Zealand (or indeed the world). The 21km finishes on Stubbs Farm and the 33km continues on to finish at the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Visitors Centre.

Runners and walkers will pass through the deep forested gorge of the Ruakuri Caves and Bush Scenic Reserve with towering limestone cliffs. A smooth trail along the Waitomo stream takes everyone back to the award-winning Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitors Centre.

The tables below give an overview and comparison of the four courses.
For more details on each course, please click on the links below:

  1. 6km

  2. 11km

  3. 21km

  4. 33km

33KM
21KM
11KM
6KM
Start
Mangapohue Natural Bridge
Mangapohue Natural Bridge
Stubbs Farm
Ruakuri Cave
Finish
Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre
Stubbs Farm
Stubbs Farm
Glowworm Caves Visitors Centre
Mangapohue Natural Bridge
Yes
Yes
-
-
Waitomo Natural Tunnel
Yes
Yes
-
-
Karst, limestone formations
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Rocky Ridge
Yes
Yes
Yes
-
Stubbs Canyon
No
No
Yes
-
Hole in the Rock
No
No
Yes
-
Ruakuri Cave & Spiral
-
-
-
Yes
Ruakuri Reserve & mini caves
Yes
-
-
Yes
33KM
21KM
11KM
6KM
Underground experience
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Free shuttle buses
Yes
Yes
Not Required
Yes
Buffet aid stations
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Number of aid stations
4
2
1
1
Child friendly
-
-
Yes
Yes
Finishers medals
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
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The Four Courses

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