Legend of the Peaks 2026

Legend of the Peaks is an off-road running festival in Whakarewarewa, Rotorua, with races designed around the local forest's peaks. The main event is the Whaka Ultra 50K, a 50.2 km trail race featuring 2,240 m of climbing and including all four forest peaks on its route. The festival, now in its fourth season, offers runners a range of distances, from ultra and marathon options to a 5K loop, children's races, and short Koeke Classic choices. The New Zealand Forest Marathon is nearly as demanding as the ultra, covering 42.5 km, four peaks, and 1,950 m of elevation gain. The Moerangi Half Marathon covers 21.4 km with 950 m of climbing, and the Titokorangi 10K includes two peaks and 430 m of gain. The event welcomes participants of most ages and attracts competitive trail runners, casual runners, families, and supporters; a free tethered guide runner option is also available. Alongside the races, the festival features music, food, and an expo, making the finish area a gathering spot for those awaiting friends and whanau returning from the forest.