Saturday 7 March 2026

Athlete Update – 1 Month To Go!

One month to go until Motatapu 2025!
We’re looking forward to seeing you all on the start line and hope training is going well. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the resources on our website for handy training and event day tips.

Talking of the start line, how about getting there by helicopter? Our longtime sponsors Over The Top – the helicopter company are offering competitors a chance to win a flight.Scroll down for all the details.
We recently went for a ride through the course (thanks Mondraker for the loan of some awesome ebikes!) and work was underway to clear some of the more overgrown areas and flatten out areas of the track that have been problematic in the past. Check out the video below of station manager Huntly at work!

We accidentally chose the hottest day of summer to go for our ride so that was a good reminder to make sure you apply plenty of sunscreen and have enough water and electrolytes on board. We’ll have Pure Electrolyte Hydration at some of our aid stations and Pure are offering Motatapu competitors 15% off so you can try it out while you train – check out the offer below.
Here are a few other reminders to help you prepare for race day.

Mountain Bikers
We highly recommend booking a service with your local bike shop pre and post event to ensure your bike is in top condition. Regular bike maintenance will increase the longevity of your bike’s life, minimise breakdowns and be easier on your pocket in the long run.
The team at Outside Sports have put together some great tips on how to prepare your bike for the Motatapu Mondraker Mountain Bike. These legends will also have mechanics throughout the course to provide support if needed. If you need a hand, look out for them in their Outside Sports kit and with Mechanic number plates on their bikes.
They’ll also be at the start line for any last minute repairs and forgotten compulsory gear items and will be completing spot bike checks. ALL competitive ebikes will be checked for compliance – make sure you know the rules.

Transport
Have you got your logistics sorted to the start line? Check out our transport options and book now to avoid missing out – capacity is limited.
For Allpress Espresso Trail Marathoners please note that your entry includes a free shuttle bus from Wānaka to the Motatapu Station start line. No bookings are required for this service (Wānaka to start line). No private vehicles are permitted to drive to the start of the marathon.

Trail Etiquette
Please remember trail etiquette, which is stay left unless passing and pass on the right and call out “Passing on your Right” as you begin to overtake. Politeness goes a long way to keep the vibes high and stress low!

Mandatory Gear Lists
Find our Mandatory Gear lists online and make sure you’ve got what you need for your event! Officials can randomly check bikes (if applicable) and gear at any point during the event, including at the start and finish line. So make sure you have everything sorted before race day. No mandatory gear = no start.

Check your entry details
You can check your registration details via your Event Plus portal, make sure you’re entered in the correct event! Check medical conditions we have recorded for you and your emergency contact. Please ensure your emergency contact is not also taking part in the event, this should be someone we are able to contact on race day.

View the whole athlete newsletter here.