Crater Rim Ultra
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About the race
The Crater Rim Ultra is a multi-distance trail running event held on Sunday 18 October 2026, marking the 25th edition. Races take place on the Port Hills and around Lyttelton Harbour, with courses that include native bush, coastal sections, valley trails and summit tracks offering harbour and city views near Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Distances offered include:
- 53 km Crater Rim Ultra across the crater rim and Port Hills.
- 30 km Bellbird Buster featuring coastal and native bush terrain.
- 22 km Kiwi Challenge with a climb to the Sign of the Kiwi.
- 12 km Rapaki Rumble climbing Mount Vernon Farm Track to Summit Road.
- 6 km Valley View flowing through valley trail terrain.
- Hansen Park Dash with 1 km and 2 km options for young runners.
Event partners and supporters are acknowledged, and $5 from each entry fee is donated to trail custodians including the Summit Road Society, Mt Vernon Park Trust and Te Ahu Pātiki Charitable Trust. Training plans and official 2026 merchandise are available for participants. Volunteers and marshals support the on-course experience and provide encouragement to competitors. The event publishes photos, results and news updates, and references past event media such as a 2019 race video to illustrate course conditions and atmosphere. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
