Well-known Newshub journalist Paddy Gower was among thousands of ultra-keen bikers, runners and walkers who took to the hills of Wānaka and Arrowtown yesterday (Saturday March 2) as part of the Motatapu event.

Paddy said he was happy to be enjoying world-class scenery and an epic backcountry adventure after learning this week that he along with 300 of his friends and colleagues will be losing their jobs due to the closure of Newshub at the end of June.

“Obviously, I’ve had the most terrible week, me and 300 of my friends lost our jobs on Wednesday (February 28) so I spent a lot of time thinking about them out there,” Paddy said. 

“I don’t know whether it was thinking about them or the scenery or my quads but I had tears in my eyes a lot of the time. 

“What a way to cap off a crazy week by doing something crazy beautiful, it was absolutely special and one of the best days of my life.”

For many competitors the day is about ticking off a bucket list achievement while the elites battle for podium places.

The event traverses the privately-owned Motatapu, Mt Soho and Glencoe Stations.

Mountain biker Reef Roberts defended his (mens) 2023 title in the 47km Mondraker Mountain Bike from Glendhu Bay through to Arrowtown with Sharlotte Lucas first home in the women’s event.

The 2024 Motatapu consisted of six events:

• 52.5km Ultra Run
• 42km Allpress Espresso Trail Marathon (run or walk options)
• 47km Mondraker Mountain Bike (individual, teams and e-bike options)
• 15km UDC Finance Miners Trail (run & walk options)
• 4km Jennian Homes Junior Trail Run
• 57km Coronet Peak Loop Mountain bike

It is a rare opportunity to access the high-country terrain of the Motatapu Valley traversing the privately-owned Motatapu, Mt Soho and Glencoe Stations which are only accessible to the public one weekend a year.

Find the full results here.

PHOTOS: Supplied