Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund, transfers or sell my entry or defer my entry to the the next year?
You can only get a refund if you withdraw before the stated refund date. You may defer your entry to the next year. More info here.

 

Is this event child friendly?
Yes – very much so. We have especially set up the 6 and 11km options with children in mind. We want them to have the excitement of exploring these caves and other magical places with their brothers, sisters, friends and parents. Parents – this is a kids paradise to go exploring – they will remember it for years!

 

Is the event limited to hardcore marathon and ultramarathon runners?
Not at all. In fact – we do not offer something even remotely close to a marathon with this event. We welcome recreational walkers, especially family / whanau and fitness groups that are looking for a wonderful day-long adventure without the pressure of competition.

 

Can I train on the entire course?
No. More than 90% of the super long course is on private land.  We are very privileged to have access to these amazing locations.  The walkway from Ruakuri Cave, including the Ruakuri Reserve and Waitomo Trail is all open to the public.

 

Will I need special trail running shoes?
Yes – they  are recommended – except for the 6km event.

 

How can I check that I have entered?
You should have received a confirmation email. Check your spam folder just in case. We update the start list regularly.

 

Do I need to take my own food and drink?
No, we provide everything. If you have something special you’d like to eat or drink – by all means bring that with you. We do recommend that you carry some water between the aid stations.

 

Can I have friend’s mountain bike along with me?
No – sorry.

 

How can I volunteer?
Sign up here – it takes 2 minutes. We really love volunteers – seriously really love them!!

 

Do we go in caves?
Yes – the short courses start in Ruakuri Cave. The long and superlong courses start under a natural bridge and go through the amazing Waitomo tunnel. The 11km course has no underground exprience.

 

Will this make my legs look good before I settle into a winter hibernation?
Yes – we can guarantee this. The event will also improve your smile.

 

Do I need headlamps?
Yes. Waitomo tunnel (long and super long course) will get dark – but you’ll be fine.

 

Carrying water?
It is recommended (although not compulsory) to carry water between aid stations.

 

Compulsory gear (Applies to 11km, 21km & 35km) 
In the week prior to the race and at registration, competitors will be advised, and again at the pre-race briefing, what compulsory clothing and equipment items they must carry (based on the expected weather conditions). If there is little risk of bad weather, the most likely Compulsory Gear list will be A.

There are three compulsory gear levels:
– A. No compulsory equipment.
– B. Waterproof seam-sealed jacket with a hood.
– C. Base Layer Long Top Wool/Polypropylene, Base Layer Long Pants Wool/Polypropylene, Waterproof Jacket (seam-sealed, hooded), Thermal Hat (Buff accepted), Thermal Gloves.

Be prepared to bring C with you to Waitomo – just in case.

 

Transport to the start?
Shuttle buses will take you to your start location. No shuttle required for the 11km.