Ring of Fire 100km Solo Ultra
The Ring of Fire 100km is one of Aotearoa’s most extraordinary ultra-distance journeys. Circling the sacred volcanic landscapes of Mt Ruapehu, this course is more than just a test of endurance – it is a pilgrimage across alpine terrain shaped by history
Runners set out from the Ohakune Junction, stepping into Tongariro National Park. From there, the course climbs up to the Round the Mountain Track, following its full circuit around Ruapehu before returning to Ohakune.
Along the way, you’ll climb through alpine ridgelines, cross vast tussock plains, traverse volcanic deserts, descend into glacial valleys, and move across ancient lava flows.
This is a course that demands courage, resilience, and respect – for Ruapehu, for your fellow runners, and for your own limits.
Highlights include:
- Waitonga Falls & Alpine Wetlands – the first climb into Ruapehu’s volcanic landscapes.
- The Cascades – rugged volcanic rock and waterfalls, technical and raw.
- Rangipo Desert – vast and lunar-like, a stretch unlike anywhere else in Aotearoa.
- Eastern Slopes – remote and awe-inspiring beneath Ruapehu’s peaks.
Distance: 100km | Elevation Gain: 3924m | Time Limit: 28 hours
NOTE: The 2026 race field is limited to 200 competitors.
Each pricing tier has a limited number of entries. Once a tier reaches capacity, the next will automatically open — so the earlier you commit, the better your entry value. Entries across all distances are limited, and once a tier closes, it’s gone…
NOTE: Entries close Monday 23rd March at 2359hrs unless sold out prior. There will be no late entries available from race registration or on the day.
100km Solo Ultra
Ember Pricing Period
100km Solo Ultra
Flare Pricing Period
Your entry fee includes:
- Ring of Fire 100km Solo Finishers Ring (my precious…)
- Race Bib & Finishers Medal (or tree donation, your choice)
- Registration Goodies
- Aid Station Supplies
- Drop Bag Service
- On-course medical support and assistance
Check out the course below or click here to view full screen (will open in a new tab).
Course Notice: All course routes are subject to change based on weather, track conditions, or operational requirements. Decisions will always prioritise participant safety and environmental care.
The below cut off times are the time you must have LEFT the aid station – not at the aid station. Please ensure you are aware of the cut-off times – these will be strictly enforced for your safety. If this is your first time doing an Ultra or you are unsure if you can make the cut-offs, we recommend you try the 60km distance, the Ring of Fire Relay with friends, or a lesser Tussock Traverse (also on the 28th March 2026 and sharing some of the Ring of Fire Course) distance this year, see how it goes and come back next year and have another crack at the longer event.
NOTE: Cut-off times are set to ensure participant safety and operational logistics. These times may be adjusted closer to the event in response to weather, track conditions, or other operational requirements. Any changes will be communicated to participants.
- Water and portaloos will be available at all start lines. All aid stations will have hut toilet access or portaloos.
- The aid stations will have sun-block available to those that need it, but we strongly encourage each athlete to have their own supply.
- This is a cup‑less event. To reduce environmental waste, aid stations will not provide disposable cups. Participants must carry their own drinking vessel (collapsible cup, bottle, or hydration pack).
- Our hydration partners are Tailwind and ZeroTwenty2. Our Tailwind will be mixed as per packet ratios for ‘long’ activities.
CLICK THE BELOW IMAGES TO ENLARGE (Updated 24/3/26)
As part of keeping our 100km runners safe out there, all participants will be weighed at registration and again at the finish line. This is a standard safety measure used at ultra events to help us monitor hydration and support our medical team in identifying anyone who may need a bit of extra care post-race. What you need to know:
- Weigh-in will take place at registration before your race
- A second weigh-in will be completed after you finish
- Please aim to wear similar clothing for both weigh-ins where possible
- The process is quick, simple, and handled respectfully by our team
If at any point you’re feeling off, struggling, or something doesn’t feel right:
- Let a course marshal know, or
- Head into the next aid station. Our medical team from Peak Safety are there to support you.
Please visit our Event Information page for ALL you need to know about:
- Crew Access to Aid Stations
- Compulsory Mandatory Gear
- Compulsory Race Briefing
- Race Rules
- Event Registration Hours & Location
- Event Entry Waiver
- Optional Entry Insurance
- Key Event Timings
- Pre & Post Race Events
- Respecting the Maunga
- and more…






