ATasmanWhat?

New Zealand is to trail runners what Swiss bank accounts are to tax dodgers, and the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic is one of the very best on the country’s south island.

Next year’s event will be the race’s 22nd in its history and the 22-mile cross country route has been voted in the Top 50 trail runs in the world. But we place it in a more exclusive group than that, the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic is running sovereignty; taking place in the south Pacific’s spring, runners can bask in the mild to warm temperatures in this trans-national park run.

When?

26 September 2015.

Where?

The start line is in Awaroa on the north-eastern tip of New Zealand’s south island. The route explores the race’s namesake – Abel Tasman National Park. No serious hills to contend with; highest ascent is 80m.

There are three routes which the race organisers rotate at will, the only difference between the three being distance. Maharau to Totaranui being the one to avoid if the 22 miles of Awaroa to Maharau sounds spot on to you.

What kind of terrain?

Mostly sand and with some low-tide crossings to manage. This bucket list will enable you to absorb New Zealand’s astonishing landscape, as the trail switches back and forth from coast, Pacific streams and dense woodland.

How much will it cost?

£1970. Local accommodation and car rental hire offer tremendous value for money, making that 35 hour flight from Heathrow to Wellington less arduous.

The price is based on an 8 nights scenario, giving you three days of post-race recovery and leisure time.

What’s the course record?

Phil Costley, 2:22:09, a record that has stood for nearly 13 years!

Any other information for me?

There is a limit of 400 entries. The registration date isn’t specified but is around early March 2015, so keep your eyes peeled.

For your leisure the hair-raising coast of Golden Bay is located an 80 minute drive north, an idyllic setting to rest those tired quads.

Golden BayHow do I enter?

http://nelsonevents.co.nz/content/abel-tasman-coastal-classic#event_results_section