The Goat Tongariro Adventure Run

Thinking about doing The Goat in 2026? We dare you.

This isn’t your average trail run. The Goat Tongariro is an epic 20km adventure race across the rugged western flanks of Mt Ruapehu, from Whakapapa (1,607m) to Turoa (1,624m). It’s got everything: over 1,000m of vertical ascent, unforgiving terrain, and scenery that will stop you in your tracks—if the hill climbs haven’t already.

Running through a UNESCO Dual World Heritage site, you’ll traverse ancient lava flows, towering scoria formations, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, native beech forests, and even pass by Lake Surprise (altitude 1,233m) before the final push up the notorious Mama’s Mile.

This is not just a run. It’s a journey through the bones of a mountain.

Enter now

Your Saturday Timeline – Post-Run Highlights

11:00am onwards
The first post-event bus drops runners back at the Powderhorn Chateau. Park yourself there for a well-earned drink and a bite.

3:30pm
Course closes – final runners must be through the finish line.

Approx 3:45pm
The last event bus returns finishers to the Powderhorn Chateau.

3:50pm
The Kid Tongariro kicks off – the next generation of Goats hits the track!

5:40pm – 6:25pm
Prizegiving Ceremony (approx. 45 mins)
Held just after The Kid event on Ngāti Rangi’s Te Urunga property (2 min walk from the Powderhorn Chateau).

Bring the tag from the bottom of your race number to enter the spot prize draw! Fancy dress encouraged for the After Party theme.

Getting to Prizegiving:
From the Powderhorn Chateau corner, walk 200m up Ohakune Mountain Road. Turn right just after the Ngāti Rangi office and follow the signs/arrows to the grass venue.

Wet Weather Backup:
If needed, prizegiving moves to Ruapehu College School Hall (2km away via Mangawhero Terrace, Shannon Street & Tainui Street). Entrance via 30 Tainui Street.

Evening Plans – All Roads Lead to the Powderhorn

6:30pm – Dinner Sitting #1
7:45pm – Dinner Sitting #2
User-pay BBQ dinner tickets must be purchased via EventPlus by 3pm Tuesday, 6 January 2026 (no door sales!). Get in early to avoid missing out.

From 9:00pm – Late
The Infamous Goat After Party
Back at the Powderhorn Chateau. No explanations needed. It’s legendary.