Routeburn Classic

Welcome to the Routeburn Classic
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Sponsors

We would like to thank the following sponsors for their support...

Cardrona Alpine Resort, Wanaka New Zealand Outside Sports: Where Adventure Begins Em's Power Cookies Distinction Luxmore Hotel: An affordable accommodation experience in unique Fiordland Heritage Hotels, Queenstown Skyline Queenstown: Higher iews, wider smiles Ultimte Hikes: New Zealand's premier guided walk company Rockgas LPG Speights' Traverse Lager Bidvest NZ IceBreaker Marmot GU Pure Performance Energy Runners World The Helicopter Line New Zealand

General Information

Owing to the environmental and safety considerations, the field is limited to 350 competitors. Good Times Events reserves the right of acceptance, places will be allocated from eligible entries in the order received online. If requested on the entry, unsuccessful entrants will be placed on a waiting list - also in the order received. Unsuccessful entries will be refunded after entries close. Withdrawal costs apply to all withdrawals prior to event after entering as per terms and conditions.

The date for 2012 Classic is Saturday 28th of APRIL.
Entries open on JANUARY Monday 30th 2012 at 7am.
Limited field of 350 participants. First in first served basis.
Entries are taken by logging into this website.
Entry cost is NZ$179.

  1. The Department of Conservation requests that runners DO NOT use the track prior to the Routeburn Classic. The reason being this is the time for walkers to enjoy the environment in there way. DOC has granted us all the privilege of enjoying the track as we prefer with swifter foot work. Please respect this request as it impacts not only the walkers but your fellow runners as we may not be allowed to continue to have our day of glory in adventure running paradise.
  2. Registration for the event is in Queenstown Outside Sports between 10am and 4pm OR in Te Anau at Outside Sports on Main Street between 12pm and 730pm on Friday 27th. Registration in Te Anau closes just before the briefing at 730pm. Compulsory Gear check will be held at Outside Sports when you register. If you wish to register in Te Anau please specify either when you enter or by email so your pack is there.
  3. Start time 8.00am on Saturday 28th, April 2012. The race director and DOC reserve the right to postpone the event to Sunday 29th May 2012 if the weather conditions/ track conditions warrant this decision. For information on this call Te Anau Distinction Luxmore reception on 03 249 7526 on the morning of the 28th for event updates.
  4. Gear that you want at the finish line is to be dropped off at Outside Sports on Shotover Street when you pick up your registration packs. Your end of race gear should include warm clothes, food, towel, change of shoes, jacket, dry hat, gloves, money for massages and food. Gear bags must be clearly labeled with your name phone number and address. Gear will be at the finish line as you leave it. (In the same box or bag).
  5. There will be one race briefing. It is compulsory to be at this race briefing. Those not attending race briefing will forfeit their place in the event. The Briefing is at 7.30pm in Te Anau on the Friday the 28th at the Te Anau Community Center.
  6. The prize giving will be at The Skyline Restaurant in Queenstown. There will be photographers on the track and photos will be available for sale after the event at the prize giving.
  7. Gear given to us at the start of the Classic at 'The Divide' to transport over WILL NOT BE at the finish line when you get there. This gear will be driven over on the day and will be available for pickup at the Prize Giving Dinner on Saturday Night at Skyline restaurant in Queenstown.
  8. Compulsory gear: Please double check your compulsory gear list.
    • 1x poly pro bottom
    • 2x poly pro top (one can be short sleeved)
    • Hat & gloves
    • Seam proofed wind/waterproof jacket
    • Survival blanket
    • whistle
  9. Your gear is checked at Outside Sports when you register in either Queenstown or Te Anau. There will also be random gear checks at Mackenzie Hut on the track. Those without the appropriate gear will not race or when caught at McKenize will not proceed into the Alpine enviroment remaining with the marshall team.
  10. GEAR NOTE: Poncho's do not meet the standard required to survive when/if it turns nasty out there.
  11. The Routeburn Classic is a running event. The track is a technical and challenging course. Appropriate training is a requirement for athletes.
  12. YOU MUST REACH Mackenzie Hut (12km mostly up hill) BEFORE THE 10.30AM CUT OFF TIME. (2 and a half hours from the start) Those that do not meet this cut of time will return to the start either with the marshals or in their own time. The marshalls will assist with rides back to Queenstown.
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Course Description


Track Distances and Heights


Location Distance From Start Metres Above Sea Level
Start Line:
Milford Road
0 km 550 m
Key Summit 2.8 km 827 m
Howden Hut 3.5 km 950 m
Earland Falls 7.2 km 1000 m
McKenzie Hut 12 km 925 m
Oceans Peak 15 km 1215 m
Harris Saddle Shelter 19.5 km 1292 m
Falls Hut 23 km 992 m
Flats Hut 25.5 km 725 m
Finish Line:
Routeburn Shelter
32.2 km 515 m

Divide to Lake Mackenzie - 12km

The start is 500m before the Divide, this has the effect of spreading the field before you reach the single track of the Divide. From here you climb a well-graded track to the turn off to Howden Hut. You then descend to Lake Howden Hut for a chance to replenish your water supplies, before gradually climbing through lush silver beech forest to the base of Earland Falls. You will look over the Hollyford Valley to the ice capped Darran Mountains before descending to the lodge at Lake Mackenzie where another drink station is positioned and compulsory gear check is carried out. YOU MUST REACH Mackenzie Hut (12km mostly up hill) BEFORE THE 10.30PM CUT OFF TIME. (2 and a half hours from the start) Those that do not meet this cut of time will return to the start either with the marshals or in their own time. The marshalls will assist with rides back to Queenstown.

Lake MacKenzie to Routeburn Falls - 11km

You leave the ancient forest draped in moss and lichen, and enter the alpine world of daisies, buttercups, gentians and edelweiss. Here you have a full vista of the Darran Mountains across the Hollyford Valley, which slices through Fiordland to the distant Tasman Sea at Martins Bay. At the Harris Saddle (1277m), After running around Lake Harris you come into more intimate terms with the mountains towering above the upper basins of the Routeburn River as you descend to the Routeburn Falls hut.

Routeburn Falls to Routeburn Shelter and finish line - 9km

Enjoy the dramatic landscape around the Falls, before descending to the alpine pastures of the Routeburn Flats. The track shadows the river as it roars through a magnificent gorge before plunging beneath the unyielding rocks at the Sump. From here it is a gentle run through columns of red beech trees to a large swing bridge. It is then just 200meters to the Routeburn Shelter at the road end where the finish line is.

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Map of the Course

Click here for the course map of the Routeburn Classic. (PDF) Routeburn Classic Course Map

Maps were made by Geographx. Geographx Logo

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Results

Click one of the following to view the final race results for that year...

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Bus Transport

  • Bus from Queenstown to Te Anau on Friday 27th April leaving from the Queenstown Station Building corner of Shotover and Camp Street at 4pm.
    Cost NZ$50.
  • Bus from Te Anau to Divide on 28th April leaving Distinction Luxmore Hotel at 6.00am.
    Cost NZ$65.
  • Bus from Glenorchy Shelter on 28th April to Queenstown for prize giving goes back and forth through the day as the bus fills.
    Cost NZ$50.

Helicopter Transport

The Helicopter Line New Zealand
  • Helicopter flights with Helicopter Line departing from Queenstown the morning of the Routeburn Classic.
  • Get a group of mates to book or just soak in the experience along with some like minded athletes.
  • No other flights are to be chartered for groups within the event.
  • The Helicopter Line offer athletes the best fares and event management need to know who is on choppers and where they are for a number of logistical reasons.
  • It is an amazing way to start an event flying over the terrain before you canter along it on foot.
  • Helicopter Line are offering a special rate.
    Cost NZ$350 / seat.

Car Rental

ABLE Rentals

ABLE Rentals will look after athletes and support crew from their fleet of motor vehicles. Best rates in Queenstown.

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Prize Giving Dinner

The Price Giving Dinner is a special event in itself. The venue for the function is Skyline Restaurant at 7.00pm on Saturday 28th after the event. We will indulge in a delicious buffet dinner and a few Speight's Summits only enhanced by the unrivaled views from Skyline above Queenstown. You and your comrades will share tales of glory from on the Routeburn Classic. This will be the cherry on top so to speak of an unforgettable adventure.

There will be photographers from Magic Memories on the track and photos will be available for sale at the Prize Giving Dinner at Skyline. Bookings for the Price Giving Dinner are taken when you enter. This includes salad bar & cheeses, Soup and rolls. Japanese rice and pickles. A great selection of hot and cold seafood, a hot buffet meal including two types of roast meats. If you still feel the need to consume there is a delicious desert buffet. You and your support crew will receive a complimentary gondola ride to this special event! (Normally $30.00).

Dinner is NZ$57.00

Click here for a sample of the Dinner Menu.

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Accomodation

IMPORANT: When booking accommodation mention that you are a part of the Routeburn Classic event to receive special rates at the Sponsor Hotels below. It is highly recommended that you book for dinner (held at the conclusion of the compulsory briefing on Friday 27th) and breakfast the following day prior to the bus departing the Distinction Luxmore Hotel. You are going to need that fuel to burn three hours later. There will not be any where else open for breakfast at that time of the morning in Te Anau. All prices quoted below include GST.

Distinction Luxmore Hotel - Te Anau

Luxmore Hotel Logo

Phone 03 249 7526 (Remember to say you are part of the Routeburn Classic) or reservations@distinctionluxmore.co.nz (www.distinctionluxmore.co.nz)

  • $125.00 per room per night twin share
  • Extra person $34.50 per room
  • Dinner Buffet $40.00 (at conclusion of compulsory Briefing)
  • Buffet Breakfast at $20.00 (From 5am. Keep in mind bus departs for the Divide at 6.00am) (Bookings for both breakfast and dinner are essential)

Heritage Hotel - Queenstown

Heritage Hotel Logo

Phone 03 450 1507 or freecall on 0800 424 988 (Remember to say you are part of the Routeburn Classic) or reszqn@heritagehotels.co.nz (www.heritagehotels.co.nz)

  • $145.00 King/Twin room per night (based on 2 pax sharing). Room Only
  • $159.00 Bed and Breakfast based on one person booking
  • $169.00 Bed and Breakfast based on two people booking
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Frequently Asked Questions


What is the entry cost?

$179 NZD

What options of payment are available when entering?

Credit card. Visa and Master Card

In regards to the helicopter from Queenstown to the start. At what point is a decision made as to the weather and if the chopper can fly? Would there still be time to drive to the start if the weather is not suitable for flying? Is there a refund of the $350 if this happens?

The decision is made on the morning of the event. Fiordland is notoriously changeable and factors such as fog which can come in the valleys play a part. That said typically we have a pretty good idea the evening before the Classic. Also in case fog was a factor we have an alternate flight plan for heli-athletes and would get you as far in as possible flying in the Te Anau direction basically above Milford Road to a place 25 minute bus ride from the start. the race wouldn't start without you. No fly no pay. Fill refund. A fill refund on the chopper is credited also to athletes forced to withdraw from the event.

Will I need transport?

Yes. Buses pick up and drop of at key points for key events over the Classic weekend.
Buses run from...
  • Queenstown to Te Anau
    Travel Time: 2 Hours
    Cost: $50 NZD
    Te Anau is where we all meet for the compulsory briefing the Friday (day before the Classic event).
  • Te Anau to the Divide
    Travel Time: 1½ Hours
    Cost: $65 NZD
    The Divide is at the start of the Routeburn Track and the event just off Milford Road.
  • Routeburn Shelter to Queenstown
    Travel Time: 2 Hours
    Cost: $50 NZD
    The Routeburn Shelter is the finish line and Queenstown is where the prize giving event happens and where your accommodation will be.
  • Helicopter
    Helicopter flights are with the Helicopter Line departing from Queenstown the morning of the Routeburn Classic. (limited seats so be in quick.) No other flights are to be chartered for groups within the event. The Helicopter Line offer athletes the best fares and event management need to know who is on choppers and where they are for a number of logistical reasons.
  • Rental car and support crew
    Your team drives you to each point mentioned above and then drives back around to the finish line. Round trip from Start to finish line is approximately : 5½ – 6 hours from the Divide (start) to the Routeburn Shelter (finish). Chances are a support crew who dropped you at the start would not be there to see you finish and as such you would not have any gear that travelled with them at the finish line either.

I didnt book transport when I entered but now I need it. How can I book now?

To book the buses you require just click on 'support the event' log in to the Good Times Events website using your email address and password. From here select what buses and other things you require and you will receive a confirmation email.

Do I have to have dinner at Skyline in order to attend the function?

No, there is complimentary gondola ride for you and your support crew up Skyline. The bar up there will be open and you can have a few bevies while others eat before the presentations start. Start time for the presentation is 7.30pm

Where are the aid stations on the track?

Aid stations are located at each of the major huts. Howden, McKenize and Falls hut. Here we will have drink, food, friendship or support if you will. There are other marshals out there with light supplies for those who require at various locations.

What is available at aid stations?

Water, Isofuel sports drink, lollies and first aid. Toilets. It is recommended that you carry other food and drink as per your individual needs. Mckenize hut is where your compulsory gear is checked before you begin a mighty climb into the mountains. The rivers and streams you cross are all fresh mountain water. We drink from all of the rivers with good flow and have always lived to tell the story. Fortunately in Fiordland. Water is one thing that athletes do not lack.

What is at the finish line?

Number one, You will be at the finish line all going well. When you get there you can refuel with, water, Isofuel sports drink, Bidvest fruit and a complementary venison sausage sizzle thanks to the crews hunting ability. There is also a catering truck doing a large variety of food and hot drinks. A massage team will be on site to ease the tension as will Contact Energy with their big gas heaters. You can expect fan fare, cheering and group hugs. Good Times after a stand out mission in the hills and valleys.

How do I get my gear from Te Anau back to Queenstown and from the start to the finish line?

Gear that you dont need for your night or morning in Te Anau and would like at the finish line is to be clearly labelled with your name and phone number and leaved with the Outside Sports team when you register in either Te Anau or Queenstown.

Gear that you take to the start but dont intend on taking with you on the Adventure Run can be leaved on the designated gear bus at the start line. This gear may NOT be at the finish line when you finish. You are a superior athlete and may well beat the bus to the finish thus a separate 'finish line gear bag' is a requirement. Again, finish line gear bags are labelled with your name and number and leaved with the Outside Sports Team when you register.

All gear will be at the finish line when the bus completes its round trip. Finish line and other gear bags will be in the athlete gear tent when you finish.

Anyone who does not collect gear bags at the finish line at the conclusion of the days activites can pick up from either...
  • Skyline Prize Giving function on the Saturday night after the event or...
  • Outside Sports on Shotover Street in Queenstown on Sunday after 1pm.
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Terms and Conditions

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Fundraiser

The Ultimate Hikes team of athletes use the Routeburn Classic as their last hooray of the Great Walks season.

Their runners are fund raising for a greater good that of the 'Fiordland Conservation Trust'. If you can please help the team raise the money they require by following the link below. Your contribution will help improve and maintain the brilliant natural environment that we all enjoy over the Classic weekend.

Contribute