The Annual Waiheke Traverse - 54km Training Run

Name: The Annual Waiheke Traverse - 54km Training Run
Start: 2026-01-02T20:00:00+13:00
End: 2026-01-03T07:00:00+13:00
Location: Matiatia Bay Waiheke

Schedule

Fri, 02 Jan, 2026 at 08:00 pm to Sat, 03 Jan, 2026 at 07:00 am

UTC+13:00

Location

Matiatia Bay Waiheke | Takapuna, AU

A 54km coastal loop of the island's western half - our 6th year!
And this year we're inviting our friends at TrailTribe Waiheke to join the fun.
We're meeting at the Auckland Ferry Terminal for the 6 AM ferry to Waiheke Island.
Bring a bag with a change of clothing - we will leave these in the lockers at the Waiheke Ferry Terminal.
As we encourage you to reduce your carbon footprint, please consider carpooling or using public transport to get to the respective ferry terminals.
The 54km loop will be run in a clockwise direction, approximately 20-25% is on concrete/asphalt surfaces so trail shoes are still the better option. This loop takes into consideration the closed tracks and peak high tide.
We will make two stops to refuel:
• 20km - Four Square
• 37km - Countdown / Dairy
It is absolutely essential to pack a minimum of 2 litres of fluid and sufficient nutrition for the run, likely an overall duration of 8.5-11 hours depending on the group.
There are at least 7 toilets along the way. Definitely wear plenty of good sunscreen and a light rain jacket is always handy.
Feel free to invite others; one can run part of this loop if they wish (run or catch the bus back from various points). We run this as a group, regrouping at the top of each climb or at intersections, as and when required. However, a minimum fitness level is required to keep up with the group - one must be comfortable running 30-35km at the minimum. (and yes, we stop for photos and 'power hike' plenty)
Every year about half the attendees have never run 50km so this is a great setting to gain that confidence in a fun way whilst gaining plenty of valuable tips from seasoned mid-to-rear pack ultramarathon runners in the group. In essence, we start as a group and finish as a group.
Ideal for those building for Tarawera 50km/100km Ultramarathon, Old Ghost Ultra, Hunua Hillbilly, Northburn100 or just enjoy setting yourself a new PB in a social setting.