Canterbury
Spring Challenge marks 20 years in Hanmer; Dunedin next in 2027
Spring Challenge’s 20th edition brought 500 teams to Hanmer Springs. Dunedin is confirmed for the 24–26 September 2027 weekend.
The 20th Merrell Spring Challenge brought around 1,500 women in 500 teams to Hanmer Springs on 26 September. The event combined rafting, mountain biking, hiking and navigation, with three-, six- and nine-hour categories.
An anniversary in Hanmer
Sportzhub’s 28 September event report describes a return to the place where Spring Challenge began in 2007. The Racing Donkeys team won the nine-hour category in 7 hours 54 minutes 49 seconds.
Dunedin is next
The organiser has confirmed Ōtepoti Dunedin for 24–26 September 2027. Check the event programme for individual race and registration times as details are released.
Interested in trying adventure racing?
Start by finding teammates and choosing a course that suits the whole group. Build navigation practice into ordinary walks, try riding together and read the compulsory equipment list before buying gear.
Use the official 2027 event page for entries and updates.
Sources and photo credits
Sources checked 30 September 2026.
Photo: Archive Hanmer Springs landscape (2008), not a race photograph. Mount Isobel behind Hanmer Springs.jpg — Pseudopanax at en.wikipedia. Public domain. Resized for display.
