After a five-year hiatus, one of New Zealand’s iconic mountain bike events, the Lake Hāwea Epic, will make its return on March 28, 2026.

Founded in 2008 by Aaron and Danielle Nicholson, the event has long held a special place in the country’s endurance sports calendar. 

It is now entering a new era with local multisport athlete and America’s Cup winner Dougal Allan taking the reins as the new owner and race director.

“It’s bittersweet to be stepping away from something that has been such a huge part of our lives and the community for so long,” Aaron and Danielle Nicholson said in a statement. 

“But we couldn’t think of a better person to carry the Lake Hāwea Epic forward than Dougal. His connection to the sport, the region, and the event itself makes this transition feel right.”

The Lake Hāwea Epic is renowned for its rugged beauty, taking riders through two private high-country stations - Hunter Valley and Dingle Burn - which are accessible to the public only on race day. 

Returning competitors and newcomers alike can look forward to many of the event’s traditions that make it unique, including the enduring Last Man Standing challenge - a group of about 15 riders who have completed every Epic since 2008.

Dougal Allan, pictured setting the course record in 2012, is the Epic’s new owner and race director.

Riders will again experience the country’s most remote ‘café’, where tea and scones are served as they roll through Dingle Burn Station, while local community groups will continue to support the event as their major annual fundraiser. 

“I’ve loved this event for years – as an athlete, a local, and a fan,” Dougal said. 

He still holds the course record he set in 2012.

“It’s a privilege to be entrusted with something that means so much to so many. My goal is to preserve the traditions that make the Epic special, while evolving it for 2026 and beyond.”

Among the new developments for 2026 are initiatives to make the event more accessible by supporting e-bike riders with a mid-course battery changeover point for both the Epic and Classic courses. 

The elite race will feature increased prize money for the top male and female finishers, and a new 16–18-year-old category will be introduced for the Classic event, giving young riders a chance to experience the challenge.

Earlybird entries are now open, with reduced rates available until December 31. 

Dougal said he expects a strong response from riders eager to be part of the Epic’s ‘comeback story’.

“We can’t wait to welcome riders back to Lake Hāwea and celebrate everything that makes the Epic truly one-of-a-kind,” he said.

Find more information here.

PHOTOS: Supplied