Wanaka Events and Festivals

Sporting Events in the Upper Clutha

• Challenge Wanaka

Billed as ‘the world’s most scenic Iron distance triathlon’ Challenge Wanaka has become a hugely popular event with a lively family friendly atmosphere nature due to the fact that teams can also compete. Held every January a number of business house, sports clubs and family teams compete alongside elite professional athletes. As well as the full 226 km distance Iron event, there is a half Iron event for teams, a number of short course competitions, a junior competition for those aged 5-16 and a fun run.

• Contact Epic

This 125km cycle race around Lake Hawea is a true adventure race and draws people from around New Zealand and Australia every April. The arduous route takes riders through streams and rivers, along rugged farm tracks and includes some serious climbs through remote New Zealand backcountry. It also includes a 95km option that starts at Kidds Bush. Not for the unfit or faint of heart but an incredible achievement for finishers!

• Motatapu Ride and Off Road Marathon

Going from Glendhu Bay to Arrowtown through the Motatapu Valley every March this event includes a 47km mountain bike ride, a 42 km marathon, an off road triathlon, a 49 km two person, four peak adventure race and a 15km run.

Wanaka Festivals

• Warbirds Over Wanaka

Held every second year at Easter the Warbirds show is a world class airshow that draws visitors from all over the globe. The next show will be in 2012 and coincides with the 75th anniversary of the RNZAF. It’s a stunning few days for air enthusiasts with unique historical warbird aircraft, helicopters, aerobatic displays, the Royal New Zealand Air force, civilian aircraft, transport aircraft, pyrotechnics and a some of the worlds best acrobatic pilots performing above the crowd.

Wanaka accommodation gets booked out very quickly for this event.

• Rippon 2012 Music Festival

Kora. Katchafire. The Datsuns. Trinity Roots…when Rippon tickets come round every second year you have to move fast! Held in a natural amphitheatre in the stunning setting of Rippon Vineyard the festival showcases some New Zealand’s best music. February 4th.

• Upper Clutha A&P Show

Going from strength to strength since it was first held in 1895, the show is a hugely popular family event. From the Jack Russell race, to showjumping, the animal parade and all the exhibitors the two day show in March is one A& P show you won’t want to miss.