The team behind the legendary Motatapu race is celebrating the event’s enduring success as they prepare for the next event.

The annual event attracts sportspeople who compete by water, foot, bike (or a combination of the three) on trails that pass through the Motatapu, Soho and Glencoe stations.

The routes are open to the public just once a year for the event, making it a special, one-of-a-kind race.

Another special thing is the event turning 21 next year, Motatapu race director and co-owner Gemma Peskett said.

“Twenty-first birthdays are something to celebrate and when we get to race day on 1 March next year it’ll be an extra special occasion,” she said.

Gemma said many long-running events have been forced to pull the pin in the face of a tough economic climate this year and she and her team are grateful to still be able to go ahead.

“Like anyone celebrating a 21st birthday, we have many people to thank for getting us to this point, including the wonderful landowners for allowing us course access, and our loyal sponsors and competitors.

“Many of them have been involved since day one and we’re delighted to welcome them back in 2025.”

The Motatapu includes events for mountain bikers (including a competitive eBike category), runners and walkers, as well as a junior trail run for competitors aged 7-15.

Over the past two decades, it has become known as the bucket-list off-road event for both elite athletes and weekend warriors.

 “We ask all our competitors about their motivation and we have people telling us it’s their 14th or 15th time doing Motatapu; they just love the challenge,” Gemma said.

Seventy-three-year-old Gary Kirkham has competed in the Motatapu Trail Marathon every year since it began.

“I come back every year because I love the event,” he said. “The great rural countryside, the autumn colours and the chance to run in such a spectacular environment is just great.”

Find everything you need to know about Motatapu 2025 here.

PHOTO: Neil Kerr