Snow Farm’s high-country trails will host some of the world’s top cross-country skiers next month as the 30th Merino Muster welcomes elite American athletes and celebrates its first edition as a fully-fledged member of the Worldloppet global ski marathon series. 

The Merino Muster - a cross-country ski marathon - has been running since 1995 and for the past 14 years it has been an associate Worldloppet member.

It now joins 18 other prestigious marathons in the Worldloppet series, placing New Zealand on equal footing with global icons like the Vasaloppet (Sweden) and the American Birkebeiner (USA).

Becoming an official Worldloppett member marks a turning point for the sport in New Zealand, race founder Mary Lee said.

“The Merino Muster is now part of the world’s premier ski marathon series,” she said.

Confirmed to race at this year’s Merino Muster are US cross-country star Jessie Diggins, a World Champion, Olympic gold medallist and 2025 Crystal Globe winner, as well as homegrown talent Campbell Wright.

The Wānaka-raised biathlon talent, who now represents Team USA, recently claimed two silver medals at the 2025 IBU World Championships and his own Crystal Globe from this season’s Biathlon World Cup.

“Having athletes like Jessie and Campbell here is a major opportunity to raise awareness of cross-country skiing in Aotearoa and inspire new generations to try it,” Mary said.

Racers at last year’s Merino Muster. PHOTO: Wānaka App

The Merino Muster’s signature race is the 42km, but it has three other race options for different ages and abilities.

They include the 21km Snow Rake, 5km Straggle Muster, and the 1km Mini Merino for under ten-year-olds.

Spectators are welcome and first-time skiers are encouraged to take part in shorter course options, Mary said.

The Merino Muster will take place on August 30 at the Snow Farm. 2025 entries are open now.

Find more information here.