Canterbury Winter Trail Series
Experience the best of Canterbury winter trail running across four stunning locations, each with its own terrain, scenery, and character. From wild coastal stations to remote high country landscapes, every race delivers a new challenge — whether you’re new to trail running or a seasoned athlete chasing your next adventure. Enter one event or the whole series - it’s your choice.
Take on the Slope Sprint (5–7km), Midi Mountains (9–12km), or Epic Endurance (19–23km), and race at four iconic venues: Willesden Farms in Kaituna Valley, Mount Cass Station, Mount Torlesse Station, and Inverary Station at Mount Somers.
One event per month: May, June, July, August 2026
Willesden Farms
24th May 2026Just 30 minutes from Christchurch, Willesden Farms at Kaituna Valley delivers a spectacular Banks Peninsula trail experience shaped by ancient volcanic landscapes, rolling ridgelines, and hidden pockets of native bush. Starting low in the valley, the course climbs steadily through trees and open hill country before bursting onto exposed ridges with sweeping views across Kaitorete Spit, down the coast towards Timaru and over to the Canterbury foothills. Technical in places, flowing in others, and constantly changing, this venue offers a true test of strength and skill — and the perfect stage to launch the series.
Mount Cass Station
14th June 2026Located just five minutes north of Amberley, Mount Cass Station sits where the Waipara wine region meets the rugged Pacific coastline. This dramatic landscape is defined by impressive limestone outcrops, big hills, and bush-filled gullies, creating a challenging and visually striking course. Expect sustained climbs, technical descents, and constantly changing terrain, all rewarded with epic views across the Waipara district, Mount Grey, Pegasus Bay, and back toward Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. A true highlight for runners who love tough trails and big scenery.
Mount Torlesse Station
12th July 2026Located just five minutes northeast of Springfield, at the base of the incredible Mount Torlesse, this venue delivers a classic Canterbury high-country trail experience. Runners traverse rugged rocky tracks, open tussock slopes, and sheltered pockets of mānuka and beech forest — with the added thrill of creek crossings that will leave you with wet feet and a smile. Long climbs and exposed ridgelines open up to breathtaking views of the Mount Torlesse Range and sweeping panoramas across the Canterbury Plains back to Christchurch — raw, remote, and unforgettable.
Inverary Station
9th August 2026Located just 15 minutes west of Mount Somers Village, at the base of the Moorhouse and Peter Ranges, Inverary Station delivers a true Canterbury high-country adventure. The course winds through rugged rocky trails, open tussock and matagouri country, with multiple creek crossings on the longer routes adding to the challenge. Long climbs are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding ranges, Mount Somers, and across to the Ashburton Lakes — making this a fitting and unforgettable finale to the series.
