Kepler Challenge 2026

What it is

The Kepler Challenge started in 1988 and has become what organisers call New Zealand’s iconic mountain run. It is held on the first Saturday in December, when the small town of Te Anau fills with runners and supporters, and the whole community gets behind the event. The 2026 race is on Saturday 5 December.

The course

The Kepler Challenge follows the Kepler Track, one of DOC’s Great Walks, in Fiordland National Park. The course is 60 km long, with a mix of flat sections, steep climbs and hard descents. The track’s high point is about 1,400 metres above sea level, and the course climbs about 2,200 metres in total.

There are eleven checkpoints, including the finish, staffed by local volunteers, with first aid and radios at each. They offer electrolytes, lollies and, at the main stops (Brod Bay, Luxmore Hut, Iris Burn, Moturau Hut and Rainbow Reach), Clif bars. There are toilets at most checkpoints, though some are long drops.

The Luxmore Grunt is the shorter option at 27 km, which the organisers say is still “not for the faint of heart”.

Who it suits

Experienced trail and mountain runners, and their supporters, who get a weekend in one of New Zealand’s most scenic corners. Places are limited and demand is high, so check the entry process well ahead.

Rules and safety

Every runner must carry the compulsory gear and meet the entry criteria on the official site, with no exceptions. Runners also wear a transponder, so supporters can follow live progress online. To keep the national park rubbish-free, there are no disposable cups at checkpoints: bring a reusable cup or buy one at registration.

Getting there

Te Anau is on State Highway 94 on the shore of Lake Te Anau. It is about two hours’ drive from Invercargill Airport through Winton (or about three hours on the coastal Southern Scenic Route through Riverton), and about two hours from Queenstown Airport along Lake Wakatipu. From Dunedin it takes about 3.5 hours by car. Tracknet and InterCity run buses from Invercargill, and InterCity runs from Dunedin.

Where to stay

Te Anau and nearby Manapōuri have everything from backpackers to luxury lodges, but rooms fill quickly on Kepler weekend. Organisers list partner rates at Distinction hotels. Our Queenstown or Te Anau base guide explains why Te Anau works so well as a base.

What to bring

Fiordland weather can change fast in early summer, so supporters should bring waterproofs, warm layers and insect repellent for sandflies, as well as sunscreen.

Make a trip of it

Te Anau is the gateway to Milford Sound. Add a day on the water with our Milford Sound cruise guide, or walk the Kepler at your own pace another time with our Great Walks guide.