The 27th Taupo Great Lake Relay will be held on the 8th October 2022!
2022 is going to see some big and exciting changes for the 27th Traffic Management NZ Taupo Great Lake Relay!!
The event is still keeping its original concept and team building model but with distances that are more logistically convenient for teams and competitors. Making it a completely new experience by also going in the opposite direction now! These major changes have been made for safety reasons as the event now will not run-on State Highway 1 between Taupo and Turangi as the volume of traffic over the past 27 years has increased considerably.
All Long Course teams will now start at the stunning Pukawa Reserve and head in an anti-clockwise direction around Lake Taupo to finish up on Taupo Riverside Park, the same place that the Length of the Lake has started for the past 11 years. The Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola Long Course covers 100km around Lake Taupo. Each team consists of 5 to 10 members, either running or walking the 100km around Lake Taupo.
The Smiths Sports Shoes Short Course covers 50km around Lake Taupo and caters for teams of 2 to 5 who can run or walk to complete the 5 legs from the Tihoi Trading Post (located on State Highway 32) on the north west end of the lake back to Taupo and finishing in the Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre.
The Ledlenser Solo Short Course covers the same 50km around Lake Taupo as the team option above but provides our ultramarathon competitors a suitable option to enter into this amazing event.
Introducing two new distances and team configurations. The Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola Long Course – 100km which has ten legs and consists of five – ten team members and the Smiths Sports Shoes Short Course – 50km which has five legs and consists of two – five team members or the Ledlenser 50km solo option.
Grab your friends, family or work colleagues together and join this amazing running or walking event around Lake Taupo.
Don’t miss being part of this awesome run/walk relay around the stunning Lake Taupo with 2500 other competitors! Renown as being the best team building exercise of all time, the ultimate Team Relay has been described by participants as the most social and scenic event in New Zealand.
If you’re really up for a challenge, take on one of the ultra-marathon options. Run or walk the 50km Led Lenser Length of the Lake as a solo competitor!
Use to be an 18-person team?? Why not create two Long Course teams and have some inhouse competition as well as trying to take out the overall Long Course distance.
Saturday 8th October 2022
Course Information
Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola 100km Long Course Relay
The Long Course caters to teams of five to ten members either running or walking to complete the ten 5.2km to 13.1km legs from Pukawa on the Southern end of the lake back to Taupo – a total distance of 100km. All Long Course teams will start and finish on the Taupo Riverside Park. Start: Pukawa Reserve, Kaiuru Ave, Pukawa. Finish: Taupo Riverside Park.
Smiths Sports Shoes 50km Short Course Relay & Ledlenser 50km Solo Ultramarathon
The Short Course caters for teams of two to five members who can run or walk to complete the five 6km to 12.9km legs from Tihoi Trading Post on the North West end of the lake back to Taupo – a total distance of 50km. Start: Tihoi Trading Post, 2822 Tihoi Road. Finish: Taupo Riverside Park.
Solo competitors will require their own support crew as there are no aid stations on the course.
Event Information
Standard Entries – until 26th September
Long Course 100km Team option : $450 per team
Short Course 50km Team option: $250 per team
Short Course 50km Solo option: $75 per person
Late Entries – from 27th September
Long Course 100km Team option : $500 per team
Short Course 50km Team option: $300 per team
Short Course 50km Solo option: $85 per person
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
ALL withdrawals MUST be notified to info@eventpromotions.co.nz by 9:00am, seven days prior to the event date. These withdrawals will receive their entry fee refund, minus a $50.00 administrative/booking fee per team or a $15.00 administrative/booking fee per solo competitor.
Any withdrawals notified to info@eventpromotions.co.nz after 9:00am, seven days prior to the event date will not be entitled to a refund, no exceptions.
In the case of a natural disaster or if the event is cancelled due to safety reasons, no refunds will be made.
Transfer Policy
All transfers to a different event length can be done 14 days prior to the event date, after this date, they must be done at event registration on Friday 7th October 2022. If you need to make a transfer, please contact info@eventpromotions.co.nz.
Covid-19 Event Policy
If an event is postponed due to Government Restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, your entry will be automatically transferred to the new event date provided by Event Promotions.
If an event is cancelled due to Government Restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, you will be able to choose one of the below options:
- Transfer your entry to the 2023 Taupo Great Lake Relay event.
- Transfer your entry to an alternative Event Promotions event (options to be listed by Event Promotions at the time of cancellation).
- Receive a 50% refund of your entry fee.
Click here to Enter Online. (credit or visa debt only).
Click here to download an Entry Form.
– Post it in to PO Box 324, Rotorua with proof of bank deposit payment. Please pay bank deposit into ASB Taupo 12-3162-0075818-61 using your name as reference.
Email it to info@eventpromotions.co.nz with proof of bank deposit payment. Please pay bank deposit into ASB Taupo 12-3162-0075818-61 using your name as reference.
Email Confirmation
You will receive confirmation of your entry and team number via email when you enter. Please print this out and bring along to registration. You can also check your entry by clicking here and looking at our confirmed entrant list.
The team manager’s book includes event rules, leg descriptions, course map and registration details. This will come in handy when driving around the course.
Download team manager’s book here. (link coming soon).
Event Timetable
Friday 7th October
5pm – 9pm: Registration at the white marquee in Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre off Redoubt Street.
Saturday 8th October
5.00am: Start for Long Course 100km Composite Teams
6.30am: Start for Long Course 100km Running Teams
8.00am: Start for Short Course 50km Walking Teams and Solos
9.30am: Start for Short Course 50km Composite Teams and Solo Runners
11.00am: Start for Short Course 50km Running Teams
6pm: Prize-giving for all grades on the Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre
Registration/Race Bag Collection
Event packs must be collected from the white marquee in Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre, Redoubt Street, Taupo on Friday the 7th October between 5.00pm and 9.00pm.
Team Managers Meeting
The team managers meeting will be done virtually this year with all team managers being emailed our team manager video which includes all important information for the event. We encourage all team managers and team members to watch this video to ensure everyone is aware of the details.
Flashing Lights
Are to be provided by each Long Course team. For added safety each team MUST have at least one flashing light clipped on the back of their shorts and be worn at all times for their first two legs of the event and during the hours of darkness by the competitors.
Below is the course descriptions for each of the legs. Legs 6 to 10 are legs 1 to 5 for the Short Course as well.
100km Long Course Start – Pukawa Reserve, Kaiuru Ave, Pukawa
50km Short Course Start – Tihoi Trading Post, 2822 Tihoi Road
Leg 1: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg One
Start at Pukawa Reserve beside boat ramp then turn left onto Kaiuru Ave.
Steep, hard uphill for 2km, turn right on SH41. Runners/walkers are to stay on the right-hand side of the road at all time.
Undulating section for 6km, then downhill for 1.5km. Turn right into State Highway 32 (Western Bays Road). Slight undulating for the next 2.1km.
Stage Classification: Hard
Distance: 13.1km
Changeover to leg 2: On SH32 (Western Bays Road) at gravel pit 100m before Kuratu Hydro Road
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 2: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Two
Flat rolling road for 1km. Uphill for 500m. Gradual uphill from 5km around 7.7km. Slight Undulating to finish. Stay on right hand side of State Highway 32.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 13km
Changeover to leg 3: Hauhungaroa 2C Station letter box 5202.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 3: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Three
Undulating leg with some big up and down hills. Change over on long flat in forestry section.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 5.2km
Changeover to leg 4: Pull over section at Parsons Glory Forestry Road (white gates on each side of the road)
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 4: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Four
Starts off flat with some gradual uphill then big downhill at 6km leading into an uphill and sharp bend leading into the finish on a long straight.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 8.5km
Changeover to leg 5: Long straight underneath two sets of powerlines that cross the road (big rock in paddock on left on hillside). Middle of long straight after the sharp bend, farm gateway on the left hand side of road.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 5: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Five
Run/walk on the right hand side of the road. Gradual uphill for first 4km then down hill and undulating to the finish line at the Tihoi Trading Post.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 10.2km
Changeover to leg 6: Tihoi Trading Post, 2822 Western Bay Road (SH32).
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 6: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Six
Very easy slight downhill with long flats for first 4km.Slight undulating then flat for 1km to finish.
Stage Classification: Easy
Distance: 6.0km
Changeover to leg 7: 2221 Western Bays Road (SH32), Bus shelter on left hand side of road. Long Straight.
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 7: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Seven
Undulating for first 9km. at 9.8km turn right onto Poihipi Road. Steep downhill and uphill in a gully from 9.8km to 11km – Runners and Walkers please take extra care in this section of road. Undulating/flat to finish.
Stage Classification: Easy
Distance: 12.9km
Changeover to leg 8: 2945 Poihipi Road opposite wooden fence/tanker entrance on right hand side of road.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 8: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Eight
Slight Undulating for first 4km. Sharp bend at the 4km please take care. Undulating for next 2km then flat and downhill to the finish at Poihipi Pastures.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 10.1km
Changeover to leg 9: Poihipi Pastures letter box 1950-1957 Poihipi Road, row of letter boxes on left hand side of road Fonterra No. 78340.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 9: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Nine
Continue downhill then large rolling hills for next 4km. Slight undulating to finish.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 8.3km
Changeover to leg 9: 1127 Poihipi Road 20m past driveway in middle of long straight.
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 10: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Ten
Flat and downhill for the first 4.5km hill climb for next 1km then very slight undulating for next 3km then another hill climb for 1.2km. Undulating to end of Poihipi Road. At 11.2km turn right onto Wairakei Drive downhill for next 1km. Competitors will then turn right into the Taupo basin at Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre to the FINISH!!
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 12.7km
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Note: all distances are + or – 0.2km
Reflective Clothing
During the hours of darkness and in any high vehicle volume legs all competitors must wear reflective clothing. See manager’s book for further suggestions.
Catch up Legs – 100km Long Course Relay
Teams are able to do catch-up legs at the start of legs 6 and if you are more than half and hour behind the last estimated time at leg 4, 10 or 16. You should only use a catch-up leg as a last resort to ensure your team finishes by 6.00pm. Full details on catch-up legs are available in your Team Managers Information Book.
Catch up Leg – 100km Long Course Relay
Teams are able to do a catch-up leg to help ensure they are finished by 6.00pm. We have changed the catch up legs to try simplify it for competitors. If you have not started the below legs by the time listed then you must get your competitors for these legs to start at this time.
Composite Teams
Catch up leg: Start of leg 6 – composite teams must start by 11.00am or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – composite teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Running Teams
Catch up leg: Start of leg 6 – running teams must start by 12.00pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – running teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Catch up Leg – 50km Short Course Relay
Teams are able to do a catch-up leg to help ensure they are finished by 6.00pm. We have changed the catch up legs to try simplify it for competitors. If you have not started the below legs by the time listed then you must get your competitors for these legs to start at this time.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Walking teams must start by 3.30pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Composite teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Running teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Cut Off Time
All competitors must complete the course by 6.00pm. Competitors may be removed from the event by the race referee, Event Directors or Medical staff for medical reasons at any stage during the event. Total times will be recorded by the organisers.
Limited Numbers
For safety reasons the event is limited to the first 500 teams registered. Entries will be accepted on a first in – first served basis. Minimum age is 13 years old.
Getting Around the Course – 100km Long Course
It is the responsibility of each team to get themselves to the start, each transition and around the course. There a couple of different ways to do this.
However if this is your first time we would suggest that you divide your team into 2 groups, depending on the size of your team e.g. Group 1 is doing the first 5 legs and Group 2 will do the next 5 legs. It is not advisable to have your entire team on the course for the whole event as it is a HUGE day and everyone will get very tired – remember the idea is to enjoy yourselves.
Suggestion 1:
You have two normal sized vehicles – one takes your first group of competitors and stays with them until they have completed the first 5 legs and after meeting the next group comes back to your base. The second vehicle takes the second group of competitors and heads out to the last 5 legs then you all meet at the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Suggestion 2:
Your team has a large vehicle, ie Van, that can comfortably accommodate all of your competitors people and all the gear they will need whilst on the course (drinks,food,clothing).
This vehicle stays on the course the entire race then when your last competitor has started the final leg you drive to the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Getting Around the Course – 50km Short Course
Your team has a large vehicle, ie Van, that can comfortably accommodate all of your competitors people and all the gear they will need whilst on the course (drinks,food,clothing).This vehicle stays on the course the entire race then when your last competitor has started the final leg you drive to the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Long Course Relay – 100km
Composite (mix of runners and walkers)
Each team must consist of five – ten members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are ten 5.2km to 13.1km legs in total. Walkers must complete legs 3, 5, 6, 9. Team members may either run or walk legs 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10.
All composite teams will start at 5.00am Saturday 8th October.
Runners
Each team must consist of five – ten member. Runners may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are ten 5.2km to 13.1km legs in total.
All running teams will start at 6.30am Saturday 8th October.
Short Course Relay – 50km
Composite (mix of runners and walkers)
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.9km legs in total. Walkers must complete legs 1 and 4. Team members may either walk or run legs 2, 3, 5.
Start time is 9.30am on Saturday 8th October.
Runners
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.96km legs in total.
Start time is 11.00am on Saturday 8th October.
Walkers
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.9km legs in total.
Start time is 8.00am on Saturday 8th October.
Short Course Solos – 5okm
Grade options are either Walker or Runner.
Solo Walk – Start time is 8.00am on Saturday 8th October
Solo Run – Start time is 9.30am on Saturday 8th October
*Competitors must finish by 6pm. If you think you will take longer please email us info@eventpromotions.co.nz
Prize-giving will be held at 6pm on the Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre from the Stage Truck. Competitors must be present to be eligible for prizes.
Major Spot Prizes (TBC for 2022)
Return flights for 2 people to San Francisco flying with United Airlines.
Greenlea Meat packages.
Ledlenser headlamps.
Smiths Sports Shoes/Asics shoe vouchers.
1-day vouchers.
Skyline Rotorua vouchers.
Minor Spot Prizes
There will be minor spot prizes up for grabs during the event. Please check the notice board at Event HQ on the Saturday to see if you are a lucky winner! You must show your managers book or race number to collect your prize.
Merit Prizes
The top 3 teams and individuals in each grade will receive medals and a prize.
Every Team Receives (TBC for 2021)
A race bag jam packed with goodies from our fabulous team of sponsors! This includes Hell Pizza Vouchers and some Craisins.
Course Records
Race records – Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola Long Course
Walking grade – Team New Balance, Whangarei 13hrs 47min 00sec (2007)
Composite grade – Smiths Sports Shoes, Tauranga 12hrs 13min 17 sec (2013)
Running grade – Adidas / Delloite / HEB, Auckland 8hrs 42min 47sec (2002)
Race records – Smiths Sports Shoes Short Course
Walking grade – Smiths Sports Shoes & Asics Walkers, Papamoa Beach 7hrs 9min 30sec (2017)
Composite grade – Eastgate Flyers, Auckland 5hrs 51min 00sec (2017)
Running grade – Ripping & A Tearing, Te Puke 4hrs 43min 03sec (2013)
Race records – Ledlenser Short Course
Solo male run – Russell Lake, Tauranga 4hrs 59min 44sec (2013)
Solo female run- Nicole Goldsmid, Feilding 5hrs 16min 24sec (2015)
Solo male walk – Michael Stride, Auckland 7:51:09 (2016)
Solo female walk – Penny Purcell, Tauranga 8:08:20 (2016)
Results
Professional photos can also be found at www.marathon-photos.com, search the event name then your bib number.
2021 Great Lake Relay Results (Provisional Results)
2021 Length of the Lake Results (Provisional Results)
2020 Length of the Lake Results
2019 Length of the Lake Results
2018 Length of the Lake Results
2017 Length of the Lake Results
2016 Length of the Lake Results
2015 Length of the Lake Results
2014 Length of the Lake Results
2013 Length of the Lake Results
2012 Length of the Lake Results
2011 Length of the Lake Results
2010 Great Lake Relay Results
Team Managers Book available to download here.
Each Team Manager will be receiving a Sky Waka Gondola & Pinnacles Lunch Combo voucher as a thank you from Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola, the naming rights sponsor of the Long Course for organising your team and being the main point of contact for this event.
_____
Situated within the UNESCO dual world heritage Tongariro National Park, Sky Waka travels 1.8kms through one of the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscapes on Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu. Making Sky Waka New Zealand’s most unique gondola experience.
Journey through the clouds, over waterfalls and ancient lava flows. Sit back and enjoy the majestic scenery of Mt Ruapehu and neighbouring volcanoes, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro on a return trip (one ride up, one ride down) on the Sky Waka to the Knoll Ridge Chalet. The multi-storey eatery features something for everyone, from a quick grab and go snack to a brand new menu of contemporary cuisine, all overlooking the wonder that is Tongariro National Park.
Your exploration is not complete until you have experienced the peaceful walking trails & unique volcanic terrain available from the top of Sky Waka. You will not be disappointed by the spectacular views and the photo opportunities, all just a short walk adventure away.
Standard Entries – until 26th September
Long Course 100km Team option : $450 per team
Short Course 50km Team option: $250 per team
Short Course 50km Solo option: $75 per person
Late Entries – from 27th September
Long Course 100km Team option : $500 per team
Short Course 50km Team option: $300 per team
Short Course 50km Solo option: $85 per person
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
ALL withdrawals MUST be notified to info@eventpromotions.co.nz by 9:00am, seven days prior to the event date. These withdrawals will receive their entry fee refund, minus a $50.00 administrative/booking fee per team or a $15.00 administrative/booking fee per solo competitor.
Any withdrawals notified to info@eventpromotions.co.nz after 9:00am, seven days prior to the event date will not be entitled to a refund, no exceptions.
In the case of a natural disaster or if the event is cancelled due to safety reasons, no refunds will be made.
Transfer Policy
All transfers to a different event length can be done 14 days prior to the event date, after this date, they must be done at event registration on Friday 7th October 2022. If you need to make a transfer, please contact info@eventpromotions.co.nz.
Covid-19 Event Policy
If an event is postponed due to Government Restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, your entry will be automatically transferred to the new event date provided by Event Promotions.
If an event is cancelled due to Government Restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, you will be able to choose one of the below options:
- Transfer your entry to the 2023 Taupo Great Lake Relay event.
- Transfer your entry to an alternative Event Promotions event (options to be listed by Event Promotions at the time of cancellation).
- Receive a 50% refund of your entry fee.
Click here to Enter Online. (credit or visa debt only).
Click here to download an Entry Form (Coming Soon)
– Post it in to PO Box 324, Rotorua with proof of bank deposit payment. Please pay bank deposit into ASB Taupo 12-3162-0075818-61 using your name as reference.
Email it to info@eventpromotions.co.nz with proof of bank deposit payment. Please pay bank deposit into ASB Taupo 12-3162-0075818-61 using your name as reference.
Email Confirmation
You will receive confirmation of your entry and team number via email when you enter. Please print this out and bring along to registration. You can also check your entry by clicking here and looking at our confirmed entrant list.
The team manager’s book includes event rules, leg descriptions, course map and registration details. This will come in handy when driving around the course.
Download team manager’s book here. (link coming soon).
Event Timetable
Friday 7th October
5pm – 9pm: Registration at the white marquee in Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre off Redoubt Street.
Saturday 8th October
5.00am: Start for Long Course 100km Composite Teams
6.30am: Start for Long Course 100km Running Teams
8.00am: Start for Short Course 50km Walking Teams and Solos
9.30am: Start for Short Course 50km Composite Teams and Solo Runners
11.00am: Start for Short Course 50km Running Teams
6pm: Prize-giving for all grades on the Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre
Registration/Race Bag Collection
Event packs must be collected from the white marquee in Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre, Redoubt Street, Taupo on Friday the 7th October between 5.00pm and 9.00pm.
Team Managers Meeting
The team managers meeting will be done virtually this year with all team managers being emailed our team manager video which includes all important information for the event. We encourage all team managers and team members to watch this video to ensure everyone is aware of the details.
Flashing Lights
Are to be provided by each Long Course team. For added safety each team MUST have at least one flashing light clipped on the back of their shorts and be worn at all times for their first two legs of the event and during the hours of darkness by the competitors.
Below is the course descriptions for each of the legs. Legs 6 to 10 are legs 1 to 5 for the Short Course as well.
100km Long Course Start – Pukawa Reserve, Kaiuru Ave, Pukawa
50km Short Course Start – Tihoi Trading Post, 2822 Tihoi Road
Leg 1: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg One
Start at Pukawa Reserve beside boat ramp then turn left onto Kaiuru Ave.
Steep, hard uphill for 2km, turn right on SH41. Runners/walkers are to stay on the right-hand side of the road at all time.
Undulating section for 6km, then downhill for 1.5km. Turn right into State Highway 32 (Western Bays Road). Slight undulating for the next 2.1km.
Stage Classification: Hard
Distance: 13.1km
Changeover to leg 2: On SH32 (Western Bays Road) at gravel pit 100m before Kuratu Hydro Road
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 2: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Two
Flat rolling road for 1km. Uphill for 500m. Gradual uphill from 5km around 7.7km. Slight Undulating to finish. Stay on right hand side of State Highway 32.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 13km
Changeover to leg 3: Hauhungaroa 2C Station letter box 5202.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 3: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Three
Undulating leg with some big up and down hills. Change over on long flat in forestry section.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 5.2km
Changeover to leg 4: Pull over section at Parsons Glory Forestry Road (white gates on each side of the road)
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 4: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Four
Starts off flat with some gradual uphill then big downhill at 6km leading into an uphill and sharp bend leading into the finish on a long straight.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 8.5km
Changeover to leg 5: Long straight underneath two sets of powerlines that cross the road (big rock in paddock on left on hillside). Middle of long straight after the sharp bend, farm gateway on the left hand side of road.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 5: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Five
Run/walk on the right hand side of the road. Gradual uphill for first 4km then down hill and undulating to the finish line at the Tihoi Trading Post.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 10.2km
Changeover to leg 6: Tihoi Trading Post, 2822 Western Bay Road (SH32).
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 6: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Six
Very easy slight downhill with long flats for first 4km.Slight undulating then flat for 1km to finish.
Stage Classification: Easy
Distance: 6.0km
Changeover to leg 7: 2221 Western Bays Road (SH32), Bus shelter on left hand side of road. Long Straight.
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 7: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Seven
Undulating for first 9km. at 9.8km turn right onto Poihipi Road. Steep downhill and uphill in a gully from 9.8km to 11km – Runners and Walkers please take extra care in this section of road. Undulating/flat to finish.
Stage Classification: Easy
Distance: 12.9km
Changeover to leg 8: 2945 Poihipi Road opposite wooden fence/tanker entrance on right hand side of road.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 8: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Eight
Slight Undulating for first 4km. Sharp bend at the 4km please take care. Undulating for next 2km then flat and downhill to the finish at Poihipi Pastures.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 10.1km
Changeover to leg 9: Poihipi Pastures letter box 1950-1957 Poihipi Road, row of letter boxes on left hand side of road Fonterra No. 78340.
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Leg 9: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Nine
Continue downhill then large rolling hills for next 4km. Slight undulating to finish.
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 8.3km
Changeover to leg 9: 1127 Poihipi Road 20m past driveway in middle of long straight.
Composite teams this is a compulsory walking leg.
Leg 10: Leg description: Click here for Elevation Map of Leg Ten
Flat and downhill for the first 4.5km hill climb for next 1km then very slight undulating for next 3km then another hill climb for 1.2km. Undulating to end of Poihipi Road. At 11.2km turn right onto Wairakei Drive downhill for next 1km. Competitors will then turn right into the Taupo basin at Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre to the FINISH!!
Stage Classification: Average
Distance: 12.7km
Composite teams this is a running or walking leg.
Note: all distances are + or – 0.2km
Reflective Clothing
During the hours of darkness and in any high vehicle volume legs all competitors must wear reflective clothing. See manager’s book for further suggestions.
Catch up Legs – 100km Long Course Relay
Teams are able to do catch-up legs at the start of legs 6 and if you are more than half and hour behind the last estimated time at leg 4, 10 or 16. You should only use a catch-up leg as a last resort to ensure your team finishes by 6.00pm. Full details on catch-up legs are available in your Team Managers Information Book.
Catch up Leg – 100km Long Course Relay
Teams are able to do a catch-up leg to help ensure they are finished by 6.00pm. We have changed the catch up legs to try simplify it for competitors. If you have not started the below legs by the time listed then you must get your competitors for these legs to start at this time.
Composite Teams
Catch up leg: Start of leg 6 – composite teams must start by 11.00am or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – composite teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Running Teams
Catch up leg: Start of leg 6 – running teams must start by 12.00pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – running teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Catch up Leg – 50km Short Course Relay
Teams are able to do a catch-up leg to help ensure they are finished by 6.00pm. We have changed the catch up legs to try simplify it for competitors. If you have not started the below legs by the time listed then you must get your competitors for these legs to start at this time.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Walking teams must start by 3.30pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Composite teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Catch up leg: Start of leg 10 – Running teams must start by 4.00pm or earlier.
Cut Off Time
All competitors must complete the course by 6.00pm. Competitors may be removed from the event by the race referee, Event Directors or Medical staff for medical reasons at any stage during the event. Total times will be recorded by the organisers.
Limited Numbers
For safety reasons the event is limited to the first 500 teams registered. Entries will be accepted on a first in – first served basis. Minimum age is 13 years old.
Getting Around the Course – 100km Long Course
It is the responsibility of each team to get themselves to the start, each transition and around the course. There a couple of different ways to do this.
However if this is your first time we would suggest that you divide your team into 2 groups, depending on the size of your team e.g. Group 1 is doing the first 5 legs and Group 2 will do the next 5 legs. It is not advisable to have your entire team on the course for the whole event as it is a HUGE day and everyone will get very tired – remember the idea is to enjoy yourselves.
Suggestion 1:
You have two normal sized vehicles – one takes your first group of competitors and stays with them until they have completed the first 5 legs and after meeting the next group comes back to your base. The second vehicle takes the second group of competitors and heads out to the last 5 legs then you all meet at the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Suggestion 2:
Your team has a large vehicle, ie Van, that can comfortably accommodate all of your competitors people and all the gear they will need whilst on the course (drinks,food,clothing).
This vehicle stays on the course the entire race then when your last competitor has started the final leg you drive to the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Getting Around the Course – 50km Short Course
Your team has a large vehicle, ie Van, that can comfortably accommodate all of your competitors people and all the gear they will need whilst on the course (drinks,food,clothing).This vehicle stays on the course the entire race then when your last competitor has started the final leg you drive to the Taupo Riverside Park to run in with your last competitors across the finish line.
Long Course Relay – 100km
Composite (mix of runners and walkers)
Each team must consist of five – ten members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are ten 5.2km to 13.1km legs in total. Walkers must complete legs 3, 5, 6, 9. Team members may either run or walk legs 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10.
All composite teams will start at 5.00am Saturday 8th October.
Runners
Each team must consist of five – ten member. Runners may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are ten 5.2km to 13.1km legs in total.
All running teams will start at 6.30am Saturday 8th October.
Short Course Relay – 50km
Composite (mix of runners and walkers)
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.9km legs in total. Walkers must complete legs 1 and 4. Team members may either walk or run legs 2, 3, 5.
Start time is 9.30am on Saturday 8th October.
Runners
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.96km legs in total.
Start time is 11.00am on Saturday 8th October.
Walkers
Each team must consist of two – five members. Runners/Walkers may compete for only one team and run/walk a maximum of two legs, can be consecutive. There are five 6km to 12.9km legs in total.
Start time is 8.00am on Saturday 8th October.
Short Course Solos – 5okm
Grade options are either Walker or Runner.
Solo Walk – Start time is 8.00am on Saturday 8th October
Solo Run – Start time is 9.30am on Saturday 8th October
*Competitors must finish by 6pm. If you think you will take longer please email us info@eventpromotions.co.nz
Prize-giving will be held at 6pm on the Taupo Riverside Park and Amphitheatre from the Stage Truck. Competitors must be present to be eligible for prizes.
Major Spot Prizes (TBC for 2022)
Return flights for 2 people to San Francisco flying with United Airlines.
Greenlea Meat packages.
Ledlenser headlamps.
Smiths Sports Shoes/Asics shoe vouchers.
1-day vouchers.
Skyline Rotorua vouchers.
Minor Spot Prizes
There will be minor spot prizes up for grabs during the event. Please check the notice board at Event HQ on the Saturday to see if you are a lucky winner! You must show your managers book or race number to collect your prize.
Merit Prizes
The top 3 teams and individuals in each grade will receive medals and a prize.
Every Team Receives (TBC for 2021)
A race bag jam packed with goodies from our fabulous team of sponsors! This includes Hell Pizza Vouchers and some Craisins.
Course Records
Race records – Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola Long Course
Walking grade – Team New Balance, Whangarei 13hrs 47min 00sec (2007)
Composite grade – Smiths Sports Shoes, Tauranga 12hrs 13min 17 sec (2013)
Running grade – Adidas / Delloite / HEB, Auckland 8hrs 42min 47sec (2002)
Race records – Smiths Sports Shoes Short Course
Walking grade – Smiths Sports Shoes & Asics Walkers, Papamoa Beach 7hrs 9min 30sec (2017)
Composite grade – Eastgate Flyers, Auckland 5hrs 51min 00sec (2017)
Running grade – Ripping & A Tearing, Te Puke 4hrs 43min 03sec (2013)
Race records – Ledlenser Short Course
Solo male run – Russell Lake, Tauranga 4hrs 59min 44sec (2013)
Solo female run- Nicole Goldsmid, Feilding 5hrs 16min 24sec (2015)
Solo male walk – Michael Stride, Auckland 7:51:09 (2016)
Solo female walk – Penny Purcell, Tauranga 8:08:20 (2016)
Results
Professional photos can also be found at www.marathon-photos.com, search the event name then your bib number.
2021 Great Lake Relay Results (Provisional Results)
2021 Length of the Lake Results (Provisional Results)
2020 Length of the Lake Results
2019 Length of the Lake Results
2018 Length of the Lake Results
2017 Length of the Lake Results
2016 Length of the Lake Results
2015 Length of the Lake Results
2014 Length of the Lake Results
2013 Length of the Lake Results
2012 Length of the Lake Results
2011 Length of the Lake Results
2010 Great Lake Relay Results
Team Managers Book available to download here.
Each Team Manager will be receiving a Sky Waka Gondola & Pinnacles Lunch Combo voucher as a thank you from Mt Ruapehu, home of the Sky Waka gondola, the naming rights sponsor of the Long Course for organising your team and being the main point of contact for this event.
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Situated within the UNESCO dual world heritage Tongariro National Park, Sky Waka travels 1.8kms through one of the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscapes on Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu. Making Sky Waka New Zealand’s most unique gondola experience.
Journey through the clouds, over waterfalls and ancient lava flows. Sit back and enjoy the majestic scenery of Mt Ruapehu and neighbouring volcanoes, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro on a return trip (one ride up, one ride down) on the Sky Waka to the Knoll Ridge Chalet. The multi-storey eatery features something for everyone, from a quick grab and go snack to a brand new menu of contemporary cuisine, all overlooking the wonder that is Tongariro National Park.
Your exploration is not complete until you have experienced the peaceful walking trails & unique volcanic terrain available from the top of Sky Waka. You will not be disappointed by the spectacular views and the photo opportunities, all just a short walk adventure away.
Contact us
- Event Promotions
- Physical Address: 92 White Street, Rotorua 3010
- Postal Address: PO Box 324, Rotorua
- info@eventpromotions.co.nz
- Phone: 07 348 3301