Challenge Wānaka has announced new courses for its middle-distance Wānaka Half race next year which will “maximise spectator opportunities”, organisers say.

Starting at Pembroke Park, bikers will head towards Glendhu Bay on the Wānaka-Mt Aspiring Road, turning around at Parkins Bay and returning to town. The race will be completed in three laps - a total of 90 kilometres.

Meanwhile the run course will feature a two-lap route from Pembroke Park along the lakefront to Eely Point and Bremner Bay and out to Beacon Point before returning to central Wānaka.

“We believe the new bike and run courses for the 2025 Challenge Wanaka Half will enhance the event by maximising spectator opportunities while minimising costs and traffic impact in the wider Wānaka area,” Challenge Wānaka event director Jane Sharman said. 

“These thoughtfully designed routes aim to provide exciting and accessible viewing experiences for fans, allowing athletes to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery and minimal disruption to local traffic and residents.”

She said the approach “reflects our commitment to delivering an event that benefits both participants and the community”.

If Queenstown Lakes District Council approves the route, the bike course will be closed to general public traffic from 7.00am until 12.30pm on race day (February 15). 

Next year the triathlon festival will return to Pembroke Park in 2025 after four years at Glendhu Bay.

The festival's schedule will run from February 13-15, with events for everyone from preschoolers through to elite athletes, culminating in the Challenge Wānaka Half.

Entries for the 2025 Challenge Wānaka are open now.

PHOTO: Lennon Bright Photography