Coast to Coast New Zealand
Col de Sud is an independent coaching and information platform. Event details may change. Always confirm dates, entry requirements and course information with the official event organiser.
Quick Information
At a glance.
Location
Kumara Beach → Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand
Event Date
2027-02-12
Distances
243 km (One Day / Two Day / Team / Longest Day)
Entry Status
Opens Soon
Official Website
Countdown
24 weeks until race day
Overview
The event.
The Kathmandu Coast to Coast is New Zealand's most iconic endurance event. First run in 1983, it crosses the entire South Island, from Kumara Beach on the Tasman Sea to New Brighton Beach on the Pacific Ocean, via 3 km beach run, 55 km road cycle, 33 km mountain run over Goat Pass, 15 km cycle, 70 km kayak on the Waimakariri River and a final 70 km ride into Christchurch. Two Day, One Day and the Longest Day (individual, non-stop) formats accommodate everyone from first-time multisporters to Coast to Coast legends.
A rite of passage in New Zealand endurance sport. The beach start under mountains and the Pacific finish are unforgettable.
Who it suitsExperienced endurance athletes ready to learn kayaking and mountain running. Not a first event.
Course Breakdown
The route.
- Distance
- 243 km — multi-discipline
- Elevation
- ~2,300 m across the mountain run
- Surface
- Beach, sealed road, alpine trail, grade II river
- Major climbs
- Goat Pass on the 33 km mountain run
- Technical sections
- Grade II river kayaking, technical mountain running, self-navigation on the mountain run
Training Preparation
How long should you train?
A realistic runway to prepare well for Coast to Coast New Zealand, based on where you're starting from.
Every athlete is different. These timelines are intended as a guide only and depend on your current fitness, previous experience, lifestyle and goals.
Philippe's Coaching Perspective
What I'd focus on.
Coast to Coast New Zealand rewards athletes who train the transitions and the fatigue, not just the individual disciplines. The way your body handles switching from one sport to the next is what separates a good day from a hard one.
Pacing is the single biggest lever. Almost every athlete goes out too hard and pays for it later. Race the first section as if you had another one waiting, because you do.
The athletes who finish strong are the ones who rehearsed the full day in training, at least once, before race day.
— Philippe, Col de Sud
Is This Event Right For You?
An honest look.
This event is ideal if you
- ✓You enjoy the challenge of a well-organised multisport event
- ✓You're prepared to train consistently for several months
- ✓You enjoy South Island-style terrain and conditions
- ✓You're looking for a meaningful, memorable challenge rather than a casual outing
You may prefer another event if
- •Your goals are focused on a different distance or discipline
- •You're looking for a shorter, lower-commitment first event
- •You haven't yet built the aerobic base this event demands
Col de Sud Assessment
A quick impression.
- Overall Difficulty
- Terrain
- Technical Skill
- Beginner Friendly
- Scenic Experience
General Col de Sud assessment. Not an official event rating.
Frequently Asked
Questions we hear.
Is Coast to Coast suitable for a first-timer?+
The Two Day option is achievable for experienced endurance athletes willing to train specifically. The Longest Day is for advanced multisporters.
How difficult is the kayak leg?+
The Waimakariri is grade II. Riders must complete an approved grade II certification and log training hours.
Do I need a support crew?+
Yes — an experienced support crew handling transitions, food and vehicles is essential.
When is the event?+
Early to mid February each year.
What are the biggest training gaps?+
Kayaking technique and mountain running underfoot skill — both need dedicated coaching.
Col de Sud Coaching
Your journey starts here.
Every athlete starts somewhere.
Whether you're preparing for your first event, chasing a personal best or simply wondering if this challenge is right for you, the most important question isn't "Can I do it?"
It's "How much time should I give myself to do it well?"
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal preparation depends on your experience, fitness, lifestyle and goals.
If you'd like help creating a realistic training plan for this event, I'd be happy to talk it through with you.
Continue Reading
Keep exploring.
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