The Kid Tongariro

The Kid Tiongariro - Saturday 17 January 2026

A special adventure run just for young trailblazers aged 5 to 16, The Kid Tongariro is part of The Goat Tongariro Adventure Run and designed to inspire a love for the outdoors. This exciting 3.2km off-road trail takes place in Ohakune’s Mangawhero Forest and finishes under a dedicated finisher’s arch — with a few fun surprises along the way (and yes, The Goat mascot will be there!).

Event Details

• Date: Saturday 17 January 2026

• Start Location: Ngāti Rangi’s Te Urunga property (approx. 200m up the road from the Powderhorn Chateau)

• Start Time: Final race briefing at 3.50pm, followed by wave starts from 3.54pm

• Distance: Approx. 3.2km loop

• Age Limit: 5–16 years

• Entry Includes:

  • Finisher’s medal or plant a native tree in Tongariro National Park (or do both for $10 extra)

  • Edible finish line treats for every Kid finisher

The Course

This friendly off-road track loops through the beautiful Mangawhero Forest and includes a small section of road crossing (safely managed by traffic control). With approx. 110m of elevation gain and descent, it’s a manageable but exciting adventure for confident young runners.

Course Notes:

• Not suitable for pushchairs or buggies

• Designed as a running event – entrants must be capable of running the majority of the distance

• Runners aged 5–6 must be accompanied by a supporter on-course

• Marshals and medics will be present throughout

Start Waves (Age-Based)

• 3.50pm: Final race briefing (all entrants)

• 3.54pm: Wave 1 – Ages 13–16

• 3.56pm: Wave 2 – Ages 10–12

• 3.58pm: Wave 3 – Ages 7–9

• 4.00pm: Wave 4 – Ages 5–6

Finishers are expected to arrive shortly after 4.05pm, with course cut-off at 4.40pm.

Important Info

Parents/caregivers should ensure children are confident trail runners with previous bush track experience. The Kid Tongariro is not designed as a walk — entrants must be prepared to run most of the 3.2km course.

Please note: Pushchairs/buggies are not permitted on course.

Celebrate the Finish

Prizegiving will follow immediately after the event at the Goat Tongariro prizegiving area — just a short walk from the finish line.

This is more than just a run — it's an unforgettable outdoor adventure for the next generation of trail lovers.