Legend of the Peaks Off-Road Running Festival 2026

Legend of the Peaks is a two-day off-road running and walking festival held at Whakarewarewa in Rotorua, Aotearoa New Zealand. Taking place in November, it offers a range of forest course options: children's races, 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, and the Whaka Ultra 50K. The shorter races include elevation gains of 145m for the 5K and 430m for the 10K, while the half marathon reaches 950m. The 50K serves as the Athletics NZ National 50K Champs. The marathon, named the New Zealand Forest Marathon, circles Whakarewarewa Forest, crossing Kohaturoa, Titokorangi, Moerangi, and Kakapiko via forest trails and off-road terrain. Its stated climb is 1950m, distinguishing it from a flat road marathon. The Whaka Ultra 50K extends further, featuring more single track, technical climbs, and 2240m of elevation gain. The festival includes amenities for families and supporters, such as music, food, and an expo at the venue, coinciding with the runners' and walkers' finishes.