Trail running course near Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, NZ
Tarawera Ultra-Trail by UTMB

Tarawera Ultra-Trail by UTMB 102K

102K·Rotorua, New Zealand
ultra100kforesttrailqualifierpoint to pointbeginner friendly

AI-generated image

Distance102K
Date13 Feb 2027
Difficulty3/5

About This Race

The 102K stands as Tarawera's signature single-loop distance, threading runners through the full spectrum of the Bay of Plenty's volcanic landscapes. Starting in Kawerau and finishing at Rotorua's lakefront, this course traverses native bush, lakeside trails, and geothermal zones across terrain that rewards consistent pacing over technical prowess. As part of the UTMB World Series, the race attracts a deep international field while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that defines New Zealand trail running. The distance sits in a practical sweet spot for experienced ultrarunners: substantial enough to demand respect and preparation, but structured with cutoff times that favor steady forward progress rather than survival shuffling. The predominantly runnable terrain allows runners to maintain rhythm through varied landscapes, making this an appealing choice for those stepping up from 50K distances or seeking a strong performance without the recuperation demands of 100-mile events.

The route departs Kawerau and moves through native podocarp forest before reaching the Tarawera Trail network. Runners follow the edge of Lake Tarawera, pass through sections of regenerating bush, and traverse paths carved by the 1886 Tarawera eruption. The final sections wind through Rotorua's Whakarewarewa Forest before descending to the lakefront finish. The terrain favors those comfortable with extended time on feet rather than technical mountain skills, though wet conditions can make tree roots and volcanic rock sections demand attention.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

February brings late summer conditions with temperatures typically 15-25°C (59-77°F), though rain remains possible year-round in this volcanic region

Nearest Airport

ROT - Rotorua Airport

Accommodation

Rotorua offers extensive lodging options from backpackers to resorts, with many properties catering specifically to the race weekend; Kawerau has limited accommodation, making Rotorua the practical base for most runners

Best For

trail runnersultra beginnersinternational travelersnature enthusiasts

Notable Features

The course passes through landscapes shaped by the 1886 Tarawera volcanic eruption, offering a rare opportunity to run through geologically recent volcanic terrain. The finish at Rotorua's lakefront includes passage through the Whakarewarewa Forest, a working redwood plantation that has become one of New Zealand's premier trail running destinations. As a UTMB World Series event, the race provides qualifying points for UTMB Mont-Blanc while maintaining a distinctly Kiwi character in organization and community support.

Other Distances at This Event

14K

161m gain

Starting Sunday morning from Te Puia, this 14-kilometer route offers the most accessible way to experience Tarawera's trails. With only 161 meters of elevation gain, it's perfect for families, trail running newcomers, or those wanting a shorter adventure in the stunning Rotorua landscape.

21K

The route begins in Rotorua and follows a network of purpose-built trails and forest service roads through the Whakarewarewa Forest and surrounding conservation lands. Runners encounter both technical singletrack requiring attention to footing and smoother forest roads where pace can be pushed. The native bush sections feature root systems and occasional volcanic rock, while the redwood groves offer softer, needle-covered surfaces. The course concludes with approaches to Lake Tarawera, where the terrain opens and views expand across the water.

50K

The course transitions through three distinct environments that define Rotorua's trail character. Runners begin in native bush, where the trail weaves through ferns and nikau palms characteristic of New Zealand's North Island forests. The route then enters the Whakarewarewa redwood forest, where towering Californian sequoias planted in the 1900s create an unexpected contrast with the surrounding native landscape. The final sections trace the shores of Lake Tarawera, with volcanic peaks visible across the water and the trail occasionally passing geothermal features that remind runners of the region's active geology.

100 miles

The course consists of multiple loops through Rotorua's Redwoods and the trails surrounding Lake Tarawera, with runners passing through the same aid stations at different stages of exhaustion. The terrain mixes groomed forest trails with narrower bush tracks, offering consistent footing without significant technical obstacles. Views across volcanic lakes and through cathedral-like stands of California redwoods provide visual relief during the long hours of movement.