22km Trail Run/Walk Course
All new for the first time in 2025 - we bring you the Hunua Hillbilly 22km course! Designed to be more achievable, by using the less technical tracks in the regional park - we know this event will appeal to many! Open to runners and walkers this event is perfect for people starting the “Hunua Hillbilly journey” and those of you who just love a magic trail half marathon, alike… there sure is something cool about this distance!
From the start you will get your heart rate up pretty quickly by making your way up (sorry!) to the stunning Mangatawhiri Dam, before following the gravel road next to the lake for around 3km, while you settle in to a good rhythm. When you reach your first aid station at 4.2km you will join courses with the Marathon and Ultra runners. You will then head up to and across the undulating challenge MTB track with stunning views of the ranges, before completely your final 10km or so on the very well maintained walking tracks of the Wairoa and Suspension bridge loop.
The bulk of the run will be on single track under the cover of stunning native bush. There will also be a combination of gravel roads, MTB trail, swing bridges and even the odd Watercare dam mixed in for good measure. When you aren’t under the very welcome cover of the bush, you will enjoy some of the most stunning 360 views in Auckland!
Although this course will still be very challenging, we have designed it on purpose to use the less technical and (slightly) less demanding tracks, so is great for anyone new to trail running, on the journey to longer things or anyone who just loves a great day out on the bush!
Event Details
Start Time
11:00am
Start Location
Upper Mangatawhiri Campground
Distance
22km
Vertical Meters
Approx. 883m
Aid Stations
4.2km, 9.6km & 18.2km
With: Water, Pure Electrolyte Drink & Gels, Coke, Bananas, Strawberries, Oranges, Potato Chips, Gingernuts, Lollies & Chocolate
Toilets
4.2km Port-a-loo
9.6km Repeater Campground
18.2km Repeater Campground
Compulsory gear
This is gear you (everyone!) must take with you on your run, from the start to the finish.
Long sleeve top (polyprop or wool)
Seam sealed water proof jacket
Beanie (polyprop or wool)
Gloves
Survival blanket/bag
Head torch
1 liter of water minimum (2l recommended)
While some of this gear may seem excessive, we ask you to bring it for your safety. You may not need it while you are running or walking but if something happens and you have to stop you will need it. The event is on very exposed, rugged country and it can be very cold if you have to stay in one spot.
Course cut-off
FINISH CLOSED – 22km – 9 hours/8:00pm