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Race guide · Central Otago, New Zealand
How to train for the Northburn 100
Loops over the top of Northburn Station in Central Otago: big climbs, dry rocky high-country tracks and changeable weather. Here's what to know and how to get ready.
Next race Sat Mar 20, 2027
| Distance | Climb | Time limit | Start | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 miles | 161 km | ~10,000 m | 48:00 | Sat 6:00 AM |
| 100 km | 100 km | ~6,350 m | – | Sat 6:00 AM |
| 50 km Skyrun | 50 km | 2,600 m | – | Sat 6:00 AM |
Every distance starts and finishes at the marquee at Northburn Station and runs in loops (the 100 miler is 50 + 60 + 50 km). There's one aid station about halfway round each loop; carry about 2 L of water and the mandatory warm kit at all times. The 48-hour limit is for the 100-mile buckle.
What makes it hard
A huge climb on every loop
Each loop climbs from about 200 m above sea level to around 1,660 m over the top of Northburn Station.
Train for it: Long, sustained climbs and power hiking, repeated on tired legs.
Dry, hard, rocky ground
Mostly high-country 4WD tracks, with short sections of fence lines and sheep tracks, and it's dry, hard and rocky underfoot.
Train for it: Downhill running on rough ground, plus strength work for quads and ankles.
Self-sufficient and changeable
One aid station per loop, creek refills, mandatory warm kit at all times and weather that can change fast.
Train for it: Train with a full pack and 2 L of water, and practise eating and drinking between sparse aid stations.
How long to train
Plan on 16–20 weeks for the 50 km if you're new to mountain ultras, 20–24 for the 100 km and 24 or more for the 100 miler. The vertical, not the distance, decides this race.
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How much climbing is the Northburn 100?
About 10,000 m over the 100 miles, around 6,350 m for the 100 km (loops of 2,600 m and 3,750 m) and 2,600 m for the 50 km, according to the organiser.
When is the Northburn 100 2027?
20–21 March 2027 at Northburn Station, with the 100 mile, 100 km and 50 km starting at 6 AM on Saturday 20 March, according to the organiser.
Race facts checked October 22, 2026 against northburn100.co.nz. Confirm dates and rules with the organiser. Vert.run is not affiliated with the race.