Event Information

The race briefing on Friday 27th March 2026 is compulsory for all courses including relays. Please make sure you attend.  At the briefing we will go over all the logistics of the event as well as cover the all important health, safety and medical aspects of the event.

All participants must collect registration packs and attend the briefing on Friday 27th at the Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune regardless of course start time on Saturday. There is no late registration on Saturday.

Friday 27th March 2026 Schedule
1230hrs-1900hrs – Event Registration open
1800hrs – Compulsory Briefing Session #1
1900hrs – Compulsory Briefing Session #2

Ring of Fire courses traverse remote alpine terrain, cross riverbeds, and include sections with limited rescue access and potential rapid weather changes. To ensure participant safety all runners must carry the following items at all times. There will be compulsory gear checks and shoe cleaning during registration and may be random gear checks on course. Missing gear may lead to refusal to start or disqualification.

Compulsory gear checks will be conducted at registration as well as randomly at the start lines and on-course at aid stations. If you do not have the correct gear you will not be allowed to continue on the course.

All runners must carry the listed items below. Download a printable version here.

*Consider supporting those that support us and check out the official Ring of Fire merino range from Opus Fresh.

Cup-less Hydration Policy

ROF 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 totalling 3L of capacity).

Hi‑Vis & Road Sections

The Hi‑Visibility safety vest is compulsory on all designated road/track segments of the course.

Marshals and officials will enforce compliance (especially on parts where participant runners mix with vehicle traffic or road crossings).

Gear Checks & Compliance

Pre-race check: Gear will be checked at registration before number / packet collection.

Random on-course checks: Selected aid stations may perform inspections.

Consequences for non-compliance:

• Missing or non-compliant gear → no start

If you fail registration check, you have the opportunity to source acceptable gear and present back to have gear checked before end of compulsory briefing to be permitted to start.

• Found missing gear during race → time penalty or directed to drop out / DQ

Optional / Recommended Gear

• Additional layers (vest, wind shell)
• Extra nutrition or electrolyte mix
• Emergency beacon or personal locator device
• Lightweight first aid items (blister plasters, tape)
• Spare socks or gaiters

Protect our Playground.  New Zealand’s lakes, rivers and streams are under threat from freshwater pests.  Pests like didymo can be sneaky little critters.  A wet shoe infected can spread pests into a river or stream.  These pests can clog out waterways, smothering fish, insect and plant life out of them and making them ugly and difficult for us to enjoy.   Pests can be microscopic at an early stage so you can’t be sure that a waterway hasn’t got a pest in it.   Almost all the freshwater pests there are in New Zealand are spread by people so what we do counts.

Your Gear and Shoes.  Please ensure that all of the gear you bring, especially your shoes, are clean and dry before you come to the event. If you have been through other freshwater in the last 72hrs please use Check Clean Dry (CCD) methods to clean. We recommend using a 5% detergent mix and soaking for one minute. Other methods can be found on www.mpi.govt.nz/check-clean-dry. All of your equipment will be checked before you register. You must bring your race day shoes to registration for check, clean, dry procedure (yes, even your road only shoes). Clean means free of dirt, sand, & seeds.  There will be cleaning equipment for your use if needed.

Start Line Busses:

If you are a 60km solo runner, or you are running Leg 2 or 3 of the 100km Relay you will be taking one of the official event buses to your start line.

The start line for the 60km solo and legs 2 & 3 of the 100km relay are NOT accessible to support crew vehicles so you MUST be on these buses to get to your start line. Bus departure times are as follows:

• 60km solo: Please be at the bus stop at 0505hrs (5:05AM). Buses depart at 0515hrs. (Times Updated 6/3/26)
• Leg 2 of 100km Relay: Please be at the bus stop at 0520hrs (5:20AM). Buses depart at 0530hrs. (Times Updated 6/3/26)
• Leg 3 of 100km Relay: Please be at the bus stop at 0750hrs (7:50AM). Buses will depart at 0800hrs.

All busses to these start lines will depart from outside The Powderhorn Chateau, Mangawhero Terrace, Ohakune (the same location as race registration).

Finish Line Busses:

If you are running Leg 1 or 2 of the 100km Relay you will be taking one of the official event shuttles back to Ohakune. These shuttles will run regularly from the finish line and return you to The Powderhorn Chateau, Mangawhero Terrace, Ohakune.

Note: The below details may be subject to change and will be confirmed in due course. Last Updated 6/3/26

The below cut off times are the time you must have LEFT the aid station – not at the aid station.

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 GRAPHICS TO ENLARGE

We can now confirm crew access to the following Aid Stations only. Please read the instructions below carefully on how to access each of these locations.

WHAKAPAPA CHATEAU

Unrestricted public access is available to the Whakapapa Chateau Lawn aid station.

TUKINO

Access to Tukino Aid Station is via a user-pays shuttle service only. Seats are limited and shuttles depart from Ohakune at set times. Tickets are $35 per person for the return journey.

For return trips, please note you will be travelling with Leg 1 relay athletes who have just finished their stage. These athletes will be given priority for seats, so return journeys may be delayed.

Please note these shuttles are not suitable for children who require a car seat.

Tickets must be booked in advance using the link below. Pre-purchased tickets can be collected at race registration on Friday.

MASSEY UNIVERSITY ALPINE CLUB (MUAC) HUT

Access to the Massey University Alpine Club Hut Aid Station will be affected by a road closure, with entry restricted to registered vehicles only.

Registered vehicle access is permitted between 7.00pm Saturday and 8.00am Sunday only. Please note that parking on site is limited.

Registering your private crew vehicle is free. Please register by completing the form below and collect your vehicle access pass from race registration on Friday.

A drop bag service is available for selected distances and aid stations. This allows you to have personal supplies such as nutrition, clothing, shoes, socks, lubricant, or other essentials waiting for you during the event.

Drop bag locations are listed on your specific race information page and in the aid stations section above.

Drop Bag Collection and Delivery

You will receive drop bag labels at Athlete Check In.

Please attach the correct label to each bag and place your bag in the designated drop bag area on Thames Street before 9pm, Friday 27th March.

If you have a start line gear bag, this must be dropped at the start line site tent on race morning before you begin your race. These will be transported to your finish line.

We are unable to move bags between aid stations. If you require supplies at multiple locations, you must provide a separate bag for each location.

Important Rules

• No glass containers are permitted in drop bags
• All liquids must be securely sealed
• Bags must be soft and a reasonable size
• Please pack only what you need
• Clearly attach your provided label to the outside of the bag
• For safety and logistics reasons, oversized or unsuitable bags may not be accepted.

Using Your Drop Bag

If you access your drop bag at an aid station, please move it from the unused pile to the used pile, even if you did not remove anything.

This helps our crew identify which bags can be transported back to the finish efficiently and keeps the drop bag area organised for other athletes.

Collecting Your Drop Bags After the Race

Drop bags will be transported back to the finish area as soon as practical after the aid station closes.

You may collect your drop bag using your race bib as identification.

If someone is collecting on your behalf, they must have an ‘Authority to Collect’ card with your bib number and athlete name on.

Uncollected bags will only be stored for a limited period after the event.

Support Crew

If your support crew will be attending an aid station where drop bags are available, we strongly encourage you to rely on your crew rather than using the drop bag service. This helps reduce transport load and ensures faster turnaround for everyone.

Entries are sold in tiers, with a set number of entries available at each price level. Once a tier sells out, the next tier automatically opens at the new price.

🔥 Ember

The first glow of commitment. These early entries are limited and treasured – a chance to begin your journey around Ruapehu with intention and focus.

🔥🔥 Flare

The momentum is building. With each new runner, the spirit of the Ring of Fire grows. Secure your place while spaces remain in this tier of the journey.

🔥🔥🔥 Inferno

This is the last chance to join the Ring of Fire – to test yourself on the maunga’s volcanic landscapes and complete a journey that demands courage, respect, and endurance. Once these entries are gone, the circle closes.

Ring of Fire 2026 – Waiver & Event Terms

Event dates: 27–29 March 2026
Location: Ohakune / Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu

Click Here for a downloadable version of this waiver.

By entering Ring of Fire 2026, you agree to the following:

1. Taking Part at Your Own Risk

The Ring of Fire is a challenging event held on Mt Ruapehu’s volcanic and alpine terrain. This means: steep climbs and descents, rocks, rivers, scree, possible snow or ice, unpredictable weather, and remote areas where help could take time to reach you.

By entering, you accept these risks and agree that you take part at your own responsibility. The organisers, landowners, sponsors, contractors, and volunteers are not responsible for any injury, illness, loss, or damage (including death) that happens while taking part.

2. Being Ready and Fit

You are responsible for making sure you are fit, prepared, and have trained for the distance you’ve entered.

• You must carry and use all compulsory gear listed on the event website.
• You must stop and withdraw if you feel unwell or unable to continue safely.
• Relay teams: each runner is responsible for their own leg, and together the team is responsible for finishing the full course.

3. Event Rules

You agree to follow all event rules, including:

• Cut-off times for each section of the course.
• Compulsory gear checks.
• Start wave and relay start time rules.
• Directions given by event staff or marshals.
• No shortcuts, littering, or unsportsmanlike behaviour.
• No outside assistance or pacers unless permitted by the organisers.

The organisers can withdraw anyone from the event if they believe it’s unsafe for you or others. If you are withdrawn or miss a cut-off, you must stop racing, hand over your race bib, and follow instructions.

4. Media and Communications

By entering, you agree that your name, results, photos, and video may be used in event promotions without payment. You also agree that your email address may be added to the Ohakune Events Charitable Trust mailing list for event updates.

Your personal information will only be used for event purposes and will not be shared beyond event partners needed to deliver the event.

5. Withdrawals, Transfers, & Change of Distance

If you withdraw from the event or change your distance, you must email [entries@rof.co.nz] before the deadlines below. Transfers can be initiated through your Event Plus registration portal – transfer fees apply.

Withdrawal Deadlines:

Change of distance Deadlines:

6. Event Changes or Cancellation (Force Majeure)

The event may be changed or cancelled at any time due to things outside the organisers’ control (like volcanic activity, extreme weather, natural disasters, government restrictions, or emergencies).

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.

This could mean shortening or re-routing the course, delaying start times, or cancelling the event.  There is no backup day and entry fees are non-refundable in these situations.

If the event is modified:

• The physical event may proceed with changes.

If the event is cancelled:

• 15% event credit or full transfer to the 2027 event (depending on timing and reason for cancellation)
  
• Priority entry into the 2027 event.
  

7. Emergency Evacuation & Insurance

If you require evacuation (by helicopter, ambulance, or otherwise), you are responsible for any costs unless covered by your own insurance.

We strongly recommend that all participants, especially those travelling from overseas, hold insurance that covers trail running events and emergency evacuation.

8. Age Restrictions

Minimum age for all distances (100km, 60km, and Relay): 18 years on race day.

A participant under 18 may only take part if special dispensation is granted by the Course Manager and Event Manager, based on evidence provided by the participant’s parent or guardian confirming ability and suitability.

9. Alcohol, Drugs & Health

You must not take part if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or banned performance-enhancing substances.

You also confirm that you will not knowingly race while sick or contagious. The organisers may refuse entry or withdraw a participant who shows signs of illness that could put others at risk.

10. Protecting the Environment

The event takes place in Tongariro National Park, a protected and sacred place. By entering, you agree to:

• Respect the land, people, and wildlife.
• Carry your compulsory gear at all times.
• Take all rubbish with you (this is a cup-less event).

11. Final Agreement

By entering, I confirm that I have read and understood this waiver and the 2026 race rules. I accept full responsibility for my participation and agree to follow all rules and instructions given by the organisers.

Ring of Fire 2026 – Race Rules

Event dates: 27–29 March 2026
Location: Ohakune, Ruapehu & Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu

These Race Rules apply to all Ring of Fire events (100km, 60km, Relay). By entering, all participants agree to follow these rules along with the Waiver & Event Terms.

Failure to follow these rules may result in time penalties, disqualification, or refusal of future entry, at the organisers’ discretion.

Definitions

Event: The Ring of Fire ultra-distance trail running events (100km, 60km, Relay) held 27–29 March 2026 in Ohakune and on Mt Ruapehu.

Organisers: The Ohakune Events Charitable Trust, its staff, volunteers, contractors, sponsors, and partners.

Athletes: Event participants registered in the event.

Entry Fee: The amount paid to register for the Event (excluding extras such as transport, merchandise, or meals).

Force Majeure: Events outside the Organisers’ reasonable control, including but not limited to extreme weather, volcanic activity, natural disasters, pandemics, government restrictions, or emergencies.

Compulsory Gear: The list of items all athletes are required to carry, as published on the Event website.

1. On-Course Rules

Athletes must follow directions from event staff, medical teams, and course marshals at all times.

Athletes must start only in their allocated wave or relay start time.

No one may compete under another person’s name or bib.

Athletes must be a minimum of 18yrs of age on race day.

Athletes must stay on the marked course. This is not only to ensure fairness, but also to protect the fragile alpine environment. Going off-track can cause lasting damage to plants, wildlife, and the whenua. If you go off-course, you must return to the last marked point.

Athletes must follow all signage, including closures or detours.

If you miss a cut-off or are instructed to withdraw, you must hand in your bib and follow event staff instructions.

If you withdraw, you must do so at an aid station or the closest marshal point unless assisted by medical staff. You must notify staff and sign the withdrawal form.

Athletes must not move, remove, or interfere with any course markings, signage, or temporary barriers.

Athletes must treat all people (staff, volunteers, fellow runners, public) with respect. Abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.

2. Environment & Kaitiakitanga

The Ring of Fire takes place in Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of cultural and spiritual significance.

All athletes must:

• Stay on marked tracks.
• Carry all rubbish (no littering).
• Not light fires or smoke on the course, in the event hubs or the National Park.
• Not bring dogs or animals onto the course (except registered service dogs).
• Not damage plants, wildlife, or cultural features.
• Respect cultural and environmental protocols at all times.

Any willful damage to the environment or disrespectful behaviour will result in disqualification and refusal of future entry.

The event embraces the values of kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga. By entering, athletes agree to uphold these values while in the park and Ruapehu.

3. Safety Briefings

Athletes must read the written safety briefing provided before race weekend.

Athletes must attend the full race briefing on Friday, 27 March 2026.

A short pre-race update briefing will also take place immediately before the start of each course.

Attendance at briefings is mandatory. Athletes who do not attend may be refused to participate.

4. Support Crews and Spectators

Support crews and spectators are welcome but must stay in publicly accessible areas unless otherwise specified and must not leave marked tracks.

Support crews may only assist athletes at designated aid stations. No outside assistance is allowed elsewhere.

Crews must follow instructions from event staff and marshals at all times.

Crews must obey road rules, speed limits, and park only in designated areas.

Crews cannot eat athlete food provided at aid stations.

Crews must not interfere with the event, athletes, or environment.

Athletes are responsible for the conduct of their support crew. Misconduct may lead to athlete penalties or disqualification.

5. Pacers

Pacers are not permitted in any Ring of Fire distance, including the 100km.

All athletes must complete the course under their own power and without assistance, except from event staff at aid stations.

6. Equipment & Mandatory Gear

All athletes must carry the full compulsory gear list for their distance, as published on the ROF website.

Gear checks will be performed before and during the race. Missing items may result in disqualification.

Trekking poles are permitted but must be collapsible, stowed when not in use, and used safely.

Bib numbers must be worn on the front and visible at all times.

Headphones are allowed but must not block awareness of surroundings:

• Must be removed at aid stations.
• Must allow hearing instructions and road traffic.

Athletes must carry their own drinking system (cup-less event).

Random gear checks may be done during the event.

7. Emergency & Medical

Athletes must stop to help another athlete in distress and alert staff. Time will be adjusted for those who provide assistance.

If first aid or evacuation is needed, call the emergency number on the back of your bib.

Athletes needing evacuation (helicopter, ambulance, etc.) are responsible for all costs unless covered by their insurance.

Athletes consent to receive medical treatment if required, and agree the Organisers may share relevant details with medical providers in emergencies.

Event medical staff have full authority to remove athletes from the course if they deem it unsafe to continue.

8. Transfers & Entries

Entries are non-transferable without approval from the Organisers.

Any athlete found competing under another person’s name or bib will be disqualified.

9. Alcohol, Drugs & Anti-Doping

The Ring of Fire promotes fair and safe competition.

Athletes must not participate in the event under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or any substance that impairs performance or safety. Anyone found to be under the influence will be disqualified.

The use of performance-enhancing drugs or methods is strictly prohibited. The Event supports the principles of Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Athletes should be aware that drug and alcohol testing may occur at the discretion of authorities.

10. Amendments to Rules

These rules may be updated before race day. The latest version will always be published on the official Ring of Fire website.

Pain and discomfort can be part of the challenge, but anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac) are not to be used during the event. When combined with dehydration, prolonged exertion, and muscle breakdown, these medications can place significant stress on your kidneys and increase the risk of serious harm. If you are in pain, struggling, or something doesn’t feel right:

• Slow down and reassess
• Speak to a course marshal or head into the next aid station

Our medical team from Peak Safety are there to support you. Your safety comes first. Pushing through with medication is not worth the risk. Please look after yourself, pace smart, and reach out early if you need help.

We’re still finalising our event program for the weekend with details on pre-event activites (e.g. powhiri) and post-event (e.g. breakfast & prizegiving) still to be announced. Watch this space!

POST RACE BREAKFAST IS CONFIRMED! Click here for more information!

When you register for the Tussock Traverse, consider adding XCover option to your entry. This coverage ensures you’re protected if unexpected circumstances like injury or illness, including Covid-19, prevent you from participating. XCover, provided by Cover Genius, is a leading global refund protection service, offering you the chance to apply for a full refund if unforeseen events disrupt your plans and you can no longer take part.

Please Note: XCover must be purchased during your initial registration and cannot be added afterward.

How Does It Work? During the online registration process, you’ll have the option to purchase refund protection with XCover. If you choose to add this protection, you’ll be covered for various unforeseen events, such as accidents, injuries, illnesses, and travel disruptions. XCover handles all refund requests directly.

Why Choose XCover? Register with peace of mind, knowing you can request a full refund if something unexpected happens. XCover offers a quick turnaround on refund requests, reviewing them within 48 working hours. As a global service, XCover supports all languages and currencies, ensuring top-notch service wherever you are.

For more information, including a detailed list of what is and isn’t covered, and the full terms and conditions click here.

How to Make a Claim If you need to file a claim, click HERE. If you need to get in touch with XCover you can email them at support@xcover.com

What is Afterpay?
Afterpay is a payment option that allows you to pay for your registration in four instalments. Afterpay handles all payment-related matters, while Ring of Fire event team will take care of your registration!

For more information about Afterpay, visit their Help Centre.

How Do I Use Afterpay to Register for Ring of Fire?

Follow these steps to use Afterpay for your registration:

1. Add your registration and any add-ons to your cart and proceed to checkout. Afterpay will be available as a payment option.
2. Select Afterpay at checkout to split your payment into four instalments.
3. Manage your payments and orders using the Afterpay app.

Need Help with Afterpay?
If you encounter any issues with your Afterpay account or payments, their customer service team is ready to assist. Visit the Afterpay Help Centre for more information and support options.

Every step of the Ring of Fire takes place on landscapes of immense cultural, spiritual, and natural significance.

Your journey around Ruapehu is as much about respect and connection as it is about endurance.

We ask all participants to honour the maunga by upholding the values of kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga.

Please ensure you:

• Follow all event protocols.
• Respect the whenua and awa.
• Leave no trace: take only memories, leave only footprints.

Together, our respect ensures this experience remains meaningful, sustainable, and available for generations to come.