The Course

The Coast to Coast has become almost a rite of passage for multisport athletes from around the world with over 20,000 people having completed the event in the 40+ years to date.

Held every February, the race starts on the West Coast, at Kumara Beach and traverses the width of the South Island, crossing the main divide and finishing on the East Coast with the finish at the Pier on New Brighton Beach in Christchurch. 

The race is one of the world's longest running multi-sports events and is older even than the Hawaiian Ironman. From similar roots, Robin Judkins founded the event in 1983 when just 25 hardy souls took on the 243km challenge over two days. 
Over the years that grew to a peak of close to 1000 competitors and the event has grown with different sections to suit all those from the professional athletes to the weekend warriors. 

The One Day race was introduced in 1989 and has the title of the World Multisport Championship with the top athletes covering the entire course in close to 11 hours. The other end of the field sees some competitors in the Two Day race taking closer to 24 hours.
Competitors leave on foot from the black sands and lush windswept landscapes on the West Coast, running 2.2km inland to their waiting bikes. They then follow the Taramakau River to the foothills of the Southern Alps where they switch their bikes for runners and the first true test of the course.

The 30.5km run is mainly off trail with the rocky riverbed often the only direct line up the valley. Competitors encounter multiple river crossings with frigid crystal clear water and an elevation gain of nearly 800m on their way to Goat Pass and the start of the descent.
With the very fastest athletes taking nearly 3 hours the run is as much a test of co-ordination and strength as it is outright speed.

A short 15km ride follows before the second jewel in the course. The mighty Waimakariri River. 70kms of braids and a stunning gorge, the river section is for many both the highlight and the crux of the race. The water flows swiftly in places and mixes long calm sections with rapids up to grade 2 in size.
It takes competitors from the heart of the Southern Alps out on to the Canterbury Plains where just one final 70km ride stands between competitors and the finish on the East Coast at the New Brighton Pier amongst a vibrant beachside festival.

While the One Day athletes complete the distance in a day, the majority of competitors take two days to cover the same course, with an overnight camp at the end of the Mountain run stage.

Stage 1a

Run 2.2km

Kumara Beach to Kumara Transition

There is no start order on the beach. There will be two flags set back as far as practical on the beach or road (depending on access to beach) and you will have to start between these. Please be sensible and seed yourselves, if you anticipate taking 3 hours on the ride don’t start at the front,  you will get run over!

Run up the gravel road and turn left onto the main road, there is a slight rise before you reach Kumara Junction. Head straight through towards the cycle transition. Turn right into the transition area and run all the way around the outside of the bike racking area and enter on the far-right hand corner. From here you can go directly to your bike.

Stage 1b

Cycle 55km

Kumara Transition to Aickens Transition

This cycle stage is 55km, following the Taramakau valley towards the Main Divide. The route is flat or undulating and has a net elevation gain of 250m. There is one railway crossing and several one-lane bridges – if you’re in the bunch please indicate to cyclists behind of
approaching bridges or hazards. There are several very fast downhills and large bunches often form on this ride, please be very careful in bunches – this is often the most dangerous part of the race.

There is a road closure from Kumara Junction to just before Jacksons (10km to go). Do not count on it working. You MUST obey all road rules and keep to the left, DO NOT cross the centre line under any circumstances. There will also be media and official vehicles on the road and it is highly likely you will also encounter local traffic. KEEP TO THE LEFT!

There is a railway line between Jacksons and Aickens (approximately 2km to go). Road rules apply - stop for trains. The crossing has an uneven surface between the tracks – take EXTREME CAUTION and be especially careful if you are in a bunch.

There is a one lane bridge between Jacksons and Aickens. Please obey the road rules and give way to traffic. The transition is on the left-hand side about 2km after the railway crossing. You will see a gravel run-off heading into a paddock and the transition are. Follow the signage and instructions from officials.

Dismount where indicated, then run with your bike through to rack your bike. Exit the racking area to the far left of the transition and run down the chute to your crew. Individual crews will be set up on the left side of the chute and teams on the right. Collect your running gear and ensure you are wearing your bib before departing onto the Mountain Run stage. .

Stage 2

Mountain Run 30km

2 Day & Mountain run athlete cut offs (Friday)

  • 2pm at Doreen Creek
  • 4pm at Goat Pass
  • 7:30pm at Klondyke Corner

One Day Cut offs (Saturday)

  • 10:45am at Doreen Creek
  • 12:15pm at Goat Pass
  • 2:15pm at Klondyke Corner


The 30km Mountain Run stage of the Coast to Coast uses the DOC Mingha – Deception Route which crosses the Goat Pass. This route is often referred to simply as Goat Pass. There are route guides downloadable from the DoC website , competitors should download the West to East guide.


WARNING: The run course is very rough and there are many places where most people simply cannot run. If you haven’t been over the course, prepare yourself by doing a lot of training on the roughest ground you can find. See the race YouTube channel for some footage from the running section. Expect A LOT of running on rocks with no track. It is a wilderness run. There are only two ways out, on foot or in a helicopter (which can only fly during daytime and in good weather). There are potential charges for non-emergency helicopter extractions of $500 per person.


Drink - many competitors choose to drink directly out of the rivers. The water is generally very good and safe to drink but we cannot guarantee this. However, when you get close to the stopbank and power lines towards the end of the run you will cross the Bealey River, Giardia is present, do not drink water from the Bealey River.


There is some race-specific course marking, but competitors are responsible for their own navigation over the course and should familiarise themselves with the terrain. Competitors who have not been over the course should consider carrying a map (Topo50 Map BV20-Otira) and compass or GPS. You can download GPS route file from the map below.


The course marking is a mix of DoC marking and race specific marking – it is a fast, efficient route but it is not compulsory to follow, you may self-navigate.


Head out of the Aickens Corner transition and through the timing point under the arch. Follow a farm track for about 2.5km until you reach the Deception Footbridge. Continue straight ahead for about 15m before turning left through the trees, down the bank and into the river. Cross to the far side and start up the Deception Valley. You don’t have to follow a set route but generally follow a mix of rough tracks and the main riverbed up the valley –there are multiple river crossings.


After about 13.5km, there is a succession of bush tracks that mark the start of the upper Gorge, here the valley steepens significantly and the next 4km to Goat Pass take even the quickest athletes close to 40 minutes. This is one of the most stunning sections of the run and has many routes –following the wet footprints is usually a safe bet.


About 500m from Goat Pass you turn right up a smaller creek and scramble and wade your way up the final part of the climb. Goat Pass elevation is 1070m so you will have climbed around 800 vertical metres and run about 17.5km from Aickens transition to this point.


From Goat Pass it is around 13km to Klondyke Corner, the track is generally much better formed and includes some boardwalks over fragile ground. It is also mainly downhill with the exception of a few short, sharp climbs, the largest being Dudley Knob where you will often find race photographers.


The final 5-6km is flat but is some of the roughest riverbed to run over. When you reach the stopbank you get some respite for about a kilometre, then the final 1.5km is real ankle-rolling stuff, especially if you are tired. Concentrate and focus on getting safely to the cheering crowds waiting at the finish of the stage.


Cut-off procedure

Athletes who do not meet the designated cut-off times will be removed from course as follows.

Friday (2 day athletes)

  • Doreen Creek - competitors who miss this cut-off will return on foot to Deception Footbridge, accompanied by event marshals.
  • Goat Pass - competitors who miss this cut-off will be transported by helicopter (weather permitting) to Klondyke Corner. Organisers reserve the right to charge up to $500 for this flight.

Saturday (Longest Day athletes)

  • Doreen Creek - competitors who miss this cut-off will either be transported by helicopter (weather permitting) to Klondyke Corner or return on foot to Deception Footbridge, accompanied by event marshals. Organisers reserve the right to charge up to $500 for this flight.
  • Goat Pass - competitors who miss this cut-off will be transported by helicopter (weather permitting) to Klondyke Corner. Organisers reserve the right to charge up to $500 for this flight.


Department of Conservation 
For up to date hazards or warnings in the area talk to the Arthurs Pass DoC visitor centre or visit the DoC website and Plan Your Trip with the Mountain Safety Council
There is a DoC office located in Arthurs Pass and it is strongly encouraged that you check in at the DoC office for the most up to date track information before starting your journey.

Arthur’s Pass National Park Visitor Centre
State Highway 73, Arthur’s Pass

A long range weather forecast and current local weather conditions can be found at www.arthurspass.com

Be prepared

Athletes are able to train on the track; however you must be suitably prepared. The route traverses an alpine environment with numerous stream and river crossings, weather conditions can change rapidly and without warning. This route is only suitable for well-equipped people with previous backcountry experience. The route is open to the public and anyone training on the track must be courteous and respectful to other users and of the natural flora and fauna by staying on the marked trail. Our DoC Concession states a ban can be put on pre race training if there are adverse effects (physical or social) so runners need to be mindful and courteous of walkers.

Guided Runs

Independent guided running trips are available and we highly recommend you invest in a guided trip, especially first timers.

There are 2 operators that have DoC concessions to offered guided trips.
Goat Pass Guides TopSport

Alternative Training Course

If the river levels are high or could be high on the Mingha-Deception route there is a an alternative, slightly longer (34km) Cass Lagoon Saddle Track DoC recommend that you do not leave vehicles on the Cass side over night as it's beside the road.

Didymo

Stop the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests. Remember to Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Stage 3

Cycle 15km & Run 1.3km

Klondyke Corner to Mt White

Turn left and cycle along the main road for 15km to the Mt White turn-off. The one-lane bridge near the start is marshaled, follow
their instructions. The ride is undulating with several very fast downhills – please take extra care if it is wet, windy, or you are in
a bunch. Also be aware of the steep downhill, after the bluffs, is often in poor condition and should be treated with extra caution.
Once you reach the Mount White turn-off, turn left onto the gravel road, dismount, and run with your bike for 1km~ down to the river. It is highly recommended you carry some running shoes or sturdy river booties to put on, or use mountain bike shoes for this stage – it is not a pleasant run in socks, bare feet or road cycle cleats!

At the bottom of the road is a railway crossing – you must obey the marshals here, if a train is coming you must STOP. Failure to obey marshals will result in disqualification. Once it is clear, you cross the bridge and rack your bike on the left-hand side of the road where your crew can also meet you.

Continue running to the right along the road to the kayak put-in area. This area changes yearly depending on the path of the river, it is possible you will still have up to 300m~ to run until you reach your kayak.

Stage 4

Kayak 70km

Mt White to Gorge Bridge

The river is typically low around the race date. 35-70 cumecs as measured at the Otarama Gauge - the race day river flow upper end guidance is around 180 cumecs, but also depends on associated weather factors.

The river is classified as Grade 2+ with braided river and gorge characteristics. You are likely to encounter wave trains, strong eddy lines, bluffs, braids midstream rock hazards and tree hazards. From the put in, paddle downstream on generally easy grade 1 riffles with multiple braid options. Good river reading skills will help you take the most efficient and fastest lines. After about 30 minutes you will reach 3-4 Rock Garden Rapids. These change annually, but usually involve a mixture of manoeuvring around boulders and punching larger waves.

At 15km you pass the Gooseberry Stream Checkpoint. This is the last opportunity to exit the river prior to committing to the Gorge. Another 10km of braided style river will see you at the Esk Checkpoint and the beginning of the Waimakariri Gorge. The gorge is about
30km long and consists of larger wave trains, bluffs and boily eddy lines.

If the river is higher there are more options, often with ’chicken routes’, but as the river drops in volume the options become fewer and the rapids more technical. The Gorge is absolutely stunning and if you are comfortable in your boat it will be one of the highlights
of the race. Significant landmarks to look for are Hamilton Rapid at the mid-point of the kayak stage, and the Red Staircase Viaduct which is two thirds of the way through the gorge.

The Woodstock Checkpoint marks the end of the gorge and the beginning of the final 15km braided section. Willow tree hazards are prevalent in this section. Stay focused on good route choice and avoiding tree hazards.

The exit is on the river right immediately downstream of Gorge Bridge. Get out of your kayak, leave it with your support crew and cross over the timing mat. Run up the track that starts near the bottom of the gravel road on the right by the permanent toilets, go around
the outside of the trees in the centre of the transition area to your bike. Your support crew must not cross the timing mat – they must go around the outside.

River Safety Notes
  • If you are expecting to swim you should be paddling a more stable boat or getting more time on Grade 2 water. A swim will cost you 15 mins, a lot of energy and exposure to unnecessary risk. Your ‘faster’ boat will need to have an outboard to make up that swim time!
  • River safety personnel are stationed at known trouble spots on the course. They are not everywhere, and are primarily there for emergencies – expect to self-rescue if you swim. If you see someone in trouble, please help them whilst ensuring you don’t put yourself in danger. Communicate any issues you see to next downstream river safety personnel.
  • Having an understanding of international river signals is important. Officials may use them to communicate hazards or direct you to preferred lines.
  • Jet boats are used as part of our safety management system. They are important for the transportation of officials, rescuing competitors, radio communications and evacuations of injured competitors. Jet boats require less water and produce less wake when going fast.
  • Verbally communicate your bib number to check point officials and/or paddle close to enable a clear view of your number. Paddle between buoys at timing mats.
  • Look for and follow signage. This is aimed to keep you away from hazards and within the managed river braids.
  • If you exit your kayak and end up on the riverbank, please be aware that 80% of the kayak stage is only accessible by jet boat. Depending on your location, it may take some time for officials to reach you for a rescue. If you’re unable to continue paddling, you will likely need to remain with checkpoint crew until you can be safely transported off-course, which may only happen once the tail-end Charlie has passed. To stay warm while waiting, please put on your compulsory clothing.

Stage 5

Cycle 70km

Turn right and cross the one-lane Gorge Bridge and head up the small incline, which is the only climb on the final cycle. After 8.8km on the main road, turn right onto South Eyre Road. Continue down here for 41.2km (including 26km without a turn). 

Turn right onto Tram Road and follow the road over the bridge that crosses State Highway 1 for 2.75km. Turn right onto the Main North Road and follow this, across the Waimakariri River, for 2.9km to a large intersection and continue straight onto Marshland Road, there is a railway line crossing after this intersection, obey road rules and stop for trains. Continue for another 3.5km to reach Lower Styx Road, where you turn left, then Right onto Te Korari Street, Left onto Te Rito Street, Left onto Prestons Road (Prestons Road follows onto Burwood Road) and then turn left into Mairehau Road. Continue for 2.2km then turn left into Beach Road for 1.75km. The road turns to the right and becomes Marine Parade - and the finish is within sight. Ride 2.3km down Marine Parade before dismounting directly in front of the New Brighton Pier.