Tourism New Zealand has launched a new campaign, “Active Escape,” starting in November.
The campaign promotes travel throughout New Zealand built around outdoor activities such as running events, cycle trails, Great Walks and day hikes. It also highlights stay styles that emphasize connection with nature by combining hot springs and wellness experiences, cultural exchanges, and more to enjoy after the activities.
As a main event, the trail race “Race Tekapo” will be held on September 19 around Lake Tekapo in the central South Island. The race takes place within a designated Dark Sky Reserve, known as one of the world’s premier stargazing locations, with runners traversing courses set against lake and mountain scenery. Seven race distances are offered, and finishers will receive medals.
In addition, in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, at the easternmost tip of New Zealand’s North Island, the “First Light Marathon” will be held on January 24, where runners take on courses in one of the first regions in the world to see the sunrise. The event features three categories: full marathon, half marathon, and a 6‑kilometer race. Over a five-day stay, participants can combine cycling, hiking, historical walks, winery visits, wildlife watching, and art and cultural experiences into their trip.
For running, hiking, and cycling enthusiasts, the campaign also showcases the “Blue Duck Station Multiday Adventure Walk” on the North Island, which takes visitors through native forests, waterfalls, and UNESCO World Heritage–listed Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park. On the South Island, it highlights “Hiking New Zealand Scenic South Hike & Bike,” an eight-day guided tour that visits some of the South Island’s most iconic landscapes.