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The thirteenth edition of the Spirited Women — All Women’s Adventure Race will be held out of the small township of Clyde in the Mackenzie District from Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd February 2026.
Twizel is the Mackenzie Region’s largest town and features many excellent cafés, bars, restaurants, and shops. There are epic views of mountains in all directions and the town is close to five lakes – handy for boating, fishing and swimming. By night it is a stargazer’s delight as Twizel is in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve - making it a perfect place for the Spirited Women event team with yet another spectacular canvas to work with to provide you with an adventure of a lifetime.
We can’t wait to share this stunning and varied course, plus cool new mystery activities with you. You will not be disappointed!
Getting there and away
Christchurch: 3 hours, 30 mins drive
Lake Tekapo: 40 mins drive
Queenstown: 2 hours, 30 mins drive
Aoraki/Mount Cook: 45 mins drive
Fairlie: 1 hour, 10 mins drive
Accommodation
The Mackenzie has a fantastic range of places to stay! Luxury lodges, glass-covered stargazing pods, rustic cabins, hotels, bed & breakfasts, farm stays, B&B’s and more. Find something suitable for every style and budget. Book your accommodation in Twizel now for Spirited Women, 20th – 22nd February 2026
Destination & activities
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Legendary Mackenzie! Step into the great wide open and discover NZ’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and clearest starry skies. Take a scenic flight into the mountains and land on glaciers; enjoy the night sky within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve; explore the amazingly beautiful landscape by cycling, walking, kayaking, swimming, skiing and more. Come discover the Legendary Mackenzie! Fast, or slow, one thing’s for sure — you’ll wish you were staying longer. It’s no wonder it was chosen to deliver the thirteenth annual Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race.
To discover more about this amazing destination, visit their website https://www.mackenzienz.com/destinations/
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How to Enter
To enter, designate a team captain responsible for entering the team. The team captain must first create an Event Plus profile for themselves (or login if they have one already). This can be done ahead of entry release by clicking on the button below. When entries open the team captain again clicks on the button below, logs into their EventPlus profile and registers for the team in the chosen event category & division. The team captain then enters in any known team member email addresses. The team captain completes the remainder of personal questions and then must pay for the complete team entry fee by credit card to confirm their team registration. A team code will be sent to all listed teammates email addresses, so these teammates can each create profiles (or login if they have one already) and add themselves to the team before online entries close.
To enter a team, add yourself to an already existing team, update your team information (including edits and deleting team members), make a donation, or check out some cool event merchandise specials on the Spirited Women online shop.
Standard Rate - available to the third 100 team entries received or up to 12 midnight Sunday 2nd November 2025 (whichever comes first)Short Course = $1700 (or $425pp for team of four)
Medium Course = $1900 (or $475pp for team of four)
Long Course = $2100 (or $525pp for team of four)
Note: the above rates last until these next 100 entries are sold or for the first 7 months from release of entries – whichever comes first.
Late Rate - available to the fourth and final 102 team entries received or up to 12 midday Friday 13th February 2026 (whichever comes first)
Short Course = $1720 (or $430pp for team of four)
Medium Course = $1920 (or $480pp for team of four)
Long Course = $2120 (or $530p for team of four)
Note: the above rates last until these final 102 team entries are sold or close to the events online entries on the Friday a week out from the event.
Plus, optional X-Cover Refund Protection (insurance) of an additional 8% of the team’s entry fee at time of entry purchase
*VISA & MasterCard Only
PLEASE NOTE: at this point, the Team Captain signs a waiver to say that the team agrees to the terms and conditions of the event and understands that it is the team’s responsibility here to take out refund protection (insurance) to safeguard team’s entry fee should something prevent the team participating in the event. For further details, see the Booking Protection and Refund Policy section on this page.
Any teams opting to not take out the refund protection (insurance) must accept there will be zero refund offered for the event after the initial 48hrs of a team entering.
Entry includes:
Team gift box full of event merchandise & sponsor’s goodies, including-
• 4 x TBC
• 4 x Event Head & Neck Wear
• 4 x Event Camelbak Drink Bottles
• 4 x $20.00 food vouchers which can used at participating supporting cafes and restaurants in Twizel and nearby Tekapo
• 4 x Finishers beverage glasses (you keep the glasses as individual finishers medals)
• Free Event Pre-Start & Finish photos, plus on-course photography.
• An Event video which will be available for you to download on Vimeo
• Provision of kayaks, paddles & life vests
• Team race notes
• Team control punch card
• Team control descriptor sheet
• Team waterproof maps - two sets.
• One amazing adventure event experience with some awesome mystery activities
• Electronic timing, with stage splits & mystery activity credits/penalties
• Event paramedic emergency team cover
• The chance to win some incredible performance prizes, unique engraved coasters & Metal Bird trophies
• Plus a bounty of seriously cool spot prizes up for grabs
Entry limit
The event is now strictly limited to 402 teams (1608 women) on a first entered basis, per event.
There are…
• 33 Long Course Team Spaces (bib numbers 1 – 33)
• 168 Medium Course Spaces (bib numbers 34 – 200)
• 202 Short Course Team Spaces (bib numbers 201 – 402)
Buying & Selling Registered Team Entries
Should the event sell out and you wish to buy or sell an entry then please go to the Spirited Women Find a Team or Teammate Facebook group here. Please note, on release of entries teams are encouraged to take out insurance to protect their entry. No refunds will be given by the event organisers if a team changes their mind and can no longer attend the event. Teams must take responsibility for selling their own entry to recoup costs. Teams who are purchasing from other teams must check to see whether insurance has been purchased by the original team or not.
Waitlist
If you are unable to buy an entry off a team (see above), and you wish to lodge your interest in entering a team in a particular category (Short, Medium or Long Course), please contact us to be placed on a waitlist should a team with refund protection insurance withdraw and a space becomes available.
Close of online entries
Twizel online entries close – 12noon Friday 13th February 2026
Registered team lists
Check out the current list of all teams entered & team members confirmed here (closer to the event date)
Looking for a teammate or team?
If you require another teammate or are looking to join a team, there is now an Event Facebook Group where you can register your interest for others to see, simply by adding a comment. We recommend you let others know a little about yourself or your team (fitness/skills/experience), the event and the category you or your team are keen to do (short/medium or long course), so you locate a well-suited team or team-mate to your or your team’s goals. Then private message one another to communicate further. Don’t forget to delete your post or simply re-comment below your comment the word ‘Found’, after you have found a team or team-mate. Please don’t be shy… there is every possibility you could strike up a lifelong friendship/s from the experience.
Team edits and deleting (non-Captain) team members
The person who registered the team (the ‘Team Captain’) will need to do this before the close of online at 12 noon on Friday 13th February 2026.
• Click on the event entry link button above
• Login to your EventPlus profile using your email and password
• Click on your ‘short/medium/long course’ entry
• Make any changes as required to your team entry (i.e., changing the team name or age division)
• Delete any old team members
• Click ‘Update’
Adding New Team Members
The team captain can add a new team member by emailing them the team’s team code (Example: SW123456789) so they can create (or login to) their EventPlus profile (accessed through the entry button above) and enter the team code to add themselves to the team. NOTE: If replacing another member, the captain must first delete the old team member to free up this email field and space for the new team member to join the team.
In the final 72hrs before the event Registration Expo opens, teams will need to print out the ‘Late team member change and Waiver agreement’ form here, complete and bring it with them to the event registration.
Changing the team captain
If you need to change the team captain or have made an error in your entry that you cannot correct, please contact us.
Change team race category
If you wish to change the race category (short, medium, or long course) for your team races, we can only effect this change for your team if there is still available space in the category you wish to move to. Any change down in course before midnight on 30th September will be eligible for a refund of the difference in the entry fee, less a $40 admin fee. No refunds will be given from 1st October. Any change up in category will be required to pay the additional difference in entry fee. Team captains must contact us by email to see if this can be done.
Deferrals
There are NO deferrals of entries from one year to the next.
Withdrawals & refund policy
Please note, no refunds will be given and teams are strongly encouraged to take out X-Cover refund protection (insurance) by CoverGenius when entering online. This cover protects your entry fee as per the provider’s Terms and Conditions here.
If your team purchased X-Cover refund protection (insurance) when entering and wishes to withdraw, please click here to start your claim.
If a team can no longer attend the event and they have taken out Cover Genius Insurance when entering, they must contact the insurance company directly. If teams simply change their mind, they must take responsibility for selling their own entry to recoup costs.
Cancellation
If the event has to be cancelled within 7 days (one week) of the event, due to adverse weather conditions, a natural disaster, terrorism, or any other justifiable reason so deemed a force majeure event by the organisers, no refunds will be issued.
PLEASE NOTE: the Team Captain signs a waiver to say that the team agrees to the terms and conditions of the event and understands that it is the team’s responsibility here to take out refund protection (insurance) to safeguard team’s entry fee should something prevent the team participating in the event. For further details, see the Booking Protection and Refund Policy section on this page.
Any teams opting to not take out the refund protection (insurance) must accept there will be zero refund offered for the event after the initial 48hrs of a team entering.
Entry fee refund protection (Insurance) is the responsibility of the team captain registering the team, so please take into consideration the interests of the entire team when making the decision to acquire it or not.
Postponement
If the event is not able to proceed due to ongoing restrictions in place surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be postponed and all current team captain entries will be transferred across to the new date when confirmed. No refunds will be given if the team cannot make the new postponed date. Teams must take this into consideration when entering.
Should the postponed event not be able to run due to Covid alert levels, adverse weather conditions, a natural disaster, terrorism, or any other justifiable reason so deemed a force majeure event by the organizers, the event will be cancelled, and no refunds will be issued.
Event waiver
Please click here to view (PDF document).
Privacy policy
Please click hereto view (PDF document).
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Booking Protection (Insurance)
X-Cover entry refund protection (insurance) by CoverGenius is available when purchasing your entry. We strongly encourage you take out this insurance. For what equates to an additional 8% of a team’s entry fee your team can gain peace of mind knowing they are covered for unforeseen events listed below.
X-Cover will refund the cost of your booking if you are unable to attend the booked event due to:
• unexpected disruption of the public transport network you could not have reasonably known about before the date of the booked event;
• an injury, or an illness affecting you or a member of your immediate family;
• death happening to you at any time before the booked event or a member of your immediate family within a 4 week period of the booked event;
• the mechanical breakdown, accident, fire or theft en route of a private vehicle taking you to the booked event;
• jury service which you were unaware of at the time of the purchase;
• burglary or fire at your residence in the 48 hours immediately before the booked event that required the attendance of the emergency services;
• you being summoned to appear at court proceedings as a witness which you were unaware of at the time of purchase;
• you being a member of the armed forces and being posted overseas unexpectedly;
• adverse weather including snow, frost, fog or storm where the Police services or other Government agencies have issued warnings not to travel. You must provide confirmation of relevant road closures from the Police or the relevant Government agency;
• you are being relocated permanently for work by your employer more than 100 miles from the booked event which you were unaware of at the time of booking or you are unexpectedly made compulsorily redundant.
If your team wishes to withdraw, please click here to start your claim.
For the full Terms and Conditions click here.
Customer feedback…
I am writing to let you know how I got on filing the insurance claim after cancelling our Spirited Woman entry. Filing the claim online was very simple and the whole process was laid out in an easy to understand format and they were very specific about what they required. I filed the claim on the 21st November 2023 after I cancelled my entry and received confirmation of the cancellation. I got a couple of emails during the following 6 days just letting me know they were working on the claim and then yesterday (day 8) I received an email telling me I will get a full refund from them. I have just organised for that to go into my bank which also was a very simple process. I am very grateful that I took out the insurance. My reason is that I am having surgery in January so I am unable to train. Having this insurance has meant I have been able to deal with this without putting extra stress on myself. The claim process was very stress free and pain less. Above all I haven't had to dump the entry onto my other team mates therefore causing them more stress. It was $116.80 total for the insurance on our team entry spread across the 4 of us. I feel it is money well spent. Kind Regards, Karen M
Entry fee refund protection (Insurance) is the responsibility of the team captain registering the team, so please take into consideration the interests of the entire team when making the decision to acquire it or not.
Zero Refund Policy
Any teams opting to not take out the event booking insurance must accept there will be zero refund offered for the event after the initial 48hrs of a team entering.
Cancellation
If the event has to be cancelled within 7 days (one week) of the event, due to adverse weather conditions, a natural disaster, terrorism, or any other justifiable reason so deemed a force majeure event by the organisers, no refunds will be issued.
If there are changes in Covid alert level restrictions within 7-days prior to the event, preventing the Event from being held, the event will be cancelled and no refunds will be made.
Postponement
If the event is not able to proceed due to ongoing restrictions in place surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be postponed and all current team captain entries will be transferred across to a new TBC date. No refunds will be given if the team cannot make the new postponed date. Teams must take this into consideration when entering.
Should the postponed event not be able to run due to Covid alert levels, adverse weather conditions, a natural disaster, terrorism, or any other justifiable reason so deemed a force majeure event by the organizers, the event will be cancelled, and no refunds will be issued.
Privacy Policy
Please click here to view (PDF document).
Event Waiver
Please click here to view (PDF document).
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Team size
All teams are made up of four women who stay together as a team of four, throughout the event.
Ability to participant
From beginner/novice (never done anything like this in your life) to elite. We welcome everyone of all ages, abilities, and levels of excitement!
Age divisions
• Open women’s team (aged 13 years and over, with combined aged under 160yrs)
• Veteran women’s team (combined age of between 160yrs - 199yrs)
• Masters women’s team (combined age of 200yrs plus)
Note: Age divisions are based on the combined team member’s age on race day.
Entry Options
Short Course
Open women’s team
Veteran women’s team
Masters women’s teamMedium Course
Open women’s team
Veteran women’s team
Masters women’s teamLong Course
Open women’s team
Veteran women’s team
Masters women’s team -
Short course (time range 4 – 12hrs)
An introduction to adventure racing, something to challenge all women willing to give it a go.
• Map reading navigation & strategic thinking – with compass knowledge useful if the sun goes down on you!
• Kayaking skills & fitness (craft/paddles and life vests are all provided)
• A confident swimmer – just in case… you never know!
Mountain biking – it would not be “Mountain” biking without a few hills!
• On & off-trail trekking (running or walking) – expect to climb up & down; get your feet wet & muddy!
• Fun but challenging mystery activity – it would not be an adventure racing without one!
Four hours predicted for the winning team’s time for a skilled, fit and prepared team. We expect the slowest teams will take three times the time of the winning team’s time.
As navigation is involved it is hard to calculate the total distance (as it depends on the team’s route choice), however, the Short Course is likely to roughly involve up to 2k paddling, 10-20k mountain biking, 5-10km trekking, in no set order and could be split up over multiple legs.
Note: We prefer not to focus on the distances of each discipline because they can vary so much – 1). from race to race and 2). with different route choices. Instead, we focus on the approximate time it will take the fastest short course team to complete the course.
Medium course (time range 6 1/2 – 16hrs)
For those who already have some fitness behind them and want to step it up a notch. This course takes the adventure to the next level and provides something to sink your teeth into.
• Navigation & strategic thinking – map reading with compass knowledge is advantageous particularly to navigate at night… don’t bank on having other teams around you that know!
• Kayaking skills & fitness (craft/paddles and life vests are all provided)
• A confident swimmer – just in case… you never know!
• Mountain biking – with the odd steep pinch & tricky bit thrown in for good measure.
• On & off-trail trekking – embrace the hills and expect to get your feet wet and muddy!
• Fun mystery activities – it wouldn’t be adventure racing without a couple!
Six hours predicted for the winning team’s time for a fit, skilled well-prepared team. We expect the slowest teams will take two and a half times the time of the winning team’s time.
As navigation is involved it is hard to calculate the total distance (as it depends on the team’s route choice), however, the Medium course is likely to roughly involve up to 3k paddle, 15-25km mountain bike, 10-15km trek, in no set order and could be split up over multiple legs.
Note: We prefer not to focus on the distances of each discipline because they can vary so much – 1). from race to race; and 2). with different route choices. Instead, we focus on the approximate time it will take the fastest team to complete the course.
Long course (time range 9 – 18hrs)
An epic adventure! Expect the unexpected, some hardcore/gnarly bits, but it’s by no means a mission impossible! You don’t need to be an elite athlete but you do need to be fit and skilled in all aspects of adventure racing. Be prepared to be out there having fun for the best part of the day and night!
• Navigation & strategic thinking – good map reading with compass knowledge absolutely essential… confidence to find your way in the dark!
• Good kayaking skills & fitness (craft/paddles and life vests are all provided)
• A competent swimmer for coasteering/river crossings – you will be getting wet!
• Adept at mountain biking and up for anything! Hike-a-bike – no problem!
• Strong on & off-trail trekking – positively adventurous… no walk in the park! Will be impossible to keep your shoes clean and dry!
• Competent at abseiling using a figure8 descending device.
• Three fun mystery activities – it wouldn’t be adventure racing without them!
Nine hours are predicted for the winning team’s time. We expect the slowest teams will take two times the time of the winning team’s time.
As navigation is involved it is hard to calculate the total distance (as it depends on the team’s route choice), however, the Long course is likely to roughly involve up to 4k Kayak, 20-30k Mtb, 15-20km Trekking, in no set order and could be split up over multiple legs.
Note: We prefer not to focus on the distances of each discipline because they can vary so much – 1). from race to race; and 2). with different route choices. Instead, we focus on the approximate time it will take the fastest team to complete the course.
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Items supplied as part of your entry include:
• Double Sit-on-top Kayaks
• Paddles
• Life vests / PFD’s
• Race notes
• Control card
• Waterproof maps (two sets)
• Check point descriptors sheet
• Mystery activity equipment
• Race bibs
• Timing transpondersRequired equipment
• Good footwear – All team members need to have a suitable pair of comfortable footwear for the Trekking stages (walking /running).
• Backpack – All team members need a suitable comfortable backpack to carry personal and team compulsory gear (see listed below) for the duration of the event.
• Mountain bike – Everyone needs a mountain bike. E-bikes are not permitted at this event.
• Cycle repair tools – Each team must carry tools (a multi-tool with a chain breaker, spare tubes, tire levers, pump, etc.) and have the skills to affect basic running repairs.
• Cycle helmet – In line with NZ Law, it is compulsory for everyone to wear a NZ safety approved cycle helmet when riding their bike.
• Bike lights – In line with NZ Law, a front (white) and rear (red) light are both compulsory, when riding in the dark.
- A rear red light, therefore, must be fixed to the mountain bike. Please make sure you secure this well. It is advisable to use a little tape to ensure the light does not rattle loose from the holder and come off whilst riding.
- A white light must be fitted facing the direction of travel. This could be fixed to the handlebars or helmet. The headlamp (also a compulsory item) mounted to a rider’s helmet will suffice for the front light.
Compulsory gear to be carried
Compulsory gear – Per team member (during all mountain biking and trekking stages):
• Seam-sealed waterproof jacket
• Warm* thermal jersey
• Warm* thermal base layer top (long sleeve)
• Warm* thermal base layer leggings
• Warm* hat
• Warm* gloves
• Head torch with spare fresh batteries – Your headlight can suffice for your white front bike light (as above in the required equipment). If your headtorch is rechargeable, a backup is advisable.
• Adequate food – for the completion of the entire race
• Adequate water – between places water can be topped up*Warm thermal means wool, merino, fleece, down, polypropylene or equivalent material.
Compulsory gear – Per team (during all mountain biking and trekking stages):
• Basic first aid kit
• Survival blanket
• Compass
• Whistle
• Fine-tipped permanent marker pen – for planning the team’s route and writing down any clues on course
• Fully charged phone in a sealable waterproof bag (Note: all phones must be on Aeroplane mode when on the course).Strongly recommended additional team gear to carry (throughout the event):
• Sunscreen
• Chafe cream -
2025 Competitor event rules
• Once teams have received course maps & notes, it is forbidden for any team member or their supporters to enter the event route until your race has officially begun
• Teams must carry the timing transponder allocated to them throughout the race. The transponder is the property of our timing provider and must be returned to the finish line. Any teams losing either their timing transponder will incur a $150 NZD replacement fee.
• All team members must wear their race team bib vests throughout the race, and bib vests must be worn over the outer garment or piece of equipment (including pack or life vest).
• Race bib vests are the property of Dare 2 Sweat Events, and must not be cut or modified in any way. Race bib vests must be returned at the finish line. Any damage or loss of a race bib vest will incur a $50 NZD repair or full replacement fee.
• Teams must start in the start wave assigned to them; based on bib number of the event category their team is entered.
• Team members must stay together and in sight of one another (with no more than 45m separating the leading member and trailing team member) at all times.
• Teams must carry their entire individual and team compulsory gear (see the compulsory gear list here) throughout the whole race, on foot and mountain bike. The only exception is during the paddle section(s) where the team’s packs can be left where craft, paddles and life vests are picked up from.
• Toilets and water will be available at a number of places on the course and these sites will be marked on the competitor’s course description card with a ‘T’ & ‘W’ respectively.
• Teams cannot receive assistance or direction from any supporters. Supporters are not permitted to visit unsupported transition areas or venture onto private property.
• Teams must follow instructions detailed on their event course maps/race notes and discussed at their respective briefing – especially where road safety is a concern.
• Transitions must be entered at the entry sign only and exited at the exit sign only.
• Paddle craft and gear must be brought back to the exact same spot they were taken from and left as you found them.
• On the water, life vests must be worn correctly by every team member
• A head torch with fresh batteries must be carried by all team members throughout the course of the event.
• Parts of the event may be on open public roads. NO roads are closed for this event, standard road rules apply at all times. You are responsible for your own safety.
• Bike lights – In line with NZ Law, a front (white) and rear (red) light are both compulsory, when riding in the dark.
- A rear red light, therefore must be fixed to the mountain bike. Please make sure you secure this well. It is advisable to use a little tape to ensure the light does not rattle loose from the holder and come off whilst riding.
- A white light must be fitted facing the direction of travel. This could be fixed to the handlebars or helmet. The headlamp (also a compulsory item) mounted to a rider’s helmet will suffice for the front light.
• Teams must clock into checkpoints (CP’s) in order of CP number. The only exception is when the stage is designated as a rogaine stage, in which case CP’s can be collected in any order.
• On any stage designated as a rogaine stage, teams must attempt to collect all CPs.
• If your team misses one CP or more, you will be ranked below all teams that get all the CPs or more CPs than your team.
• Electric or pedal assist bikes are prohibited unless prior approval is obtained from event management.
• Use of any GPS device (phone, watch or cycle computer etc) to navigate is prohibited.
• Cell phones must be fully charged, turned to aeroplane mode or turned off and carried in sealed watertight bags. They may only be opened and turned off aeroplane mode or turned on to use in the case of an emergency or after 10:00 pm to call into the event safety crew.
• The complete team must enter and exit all TA’s together through the marshal point – transitions must be entered at the entry sign only and exited at the exit sign only. Any team not crossing timing mats on the way into TAs will be ranked below all teams that have done so.
• Teams must also enter all mystery activities (MA’s) together through the marshal point.
• MA’s are challenges that teams are required (if they chose to) to complete before moving on.
• Rules surrounding MAs must be adhered to by all teams. Time penalties exist if MA’s are skipped.
• Teams must also follow instructions from event staff/marshals and event signs encountered throughout the course of the event.
• Teams and any supporters of teams must respect the rights of local landowners, residents, business owners and the general public at all times.
• No supporters of teams are allowed to venture onto private land (regardless of whether it is used for the race).
• Teams must stay out of all areas marked ‘Out Of Bounds’ on their race maps.
• Team members must be vigilant and cautious of permanent and temporary electric fences. Team members must stay clear of offal pits.
• Use gates wherever possible to pass from one side of a fence to the other. Either open and close the gate or climb it at the hinge end only.
• Teams must close all gates unless they are tied back. If in doubt – close it.
• Littering is prohibited. If you do see litter and stop to pick it up, you are a superstar.
• Toilets amenities must be used wherever possible.
• Any complaints with respect to breaches in the race rules must be reported in writing to the Race Director within one hour of a team finishing. The Race Director with a select panel of staff will undertake private consideration with the appropriate action and/or penalty decided upon based on the nature and severity of the offence. Their decision will be final.
• If one or two of the team members withdraw during the event, teams can continue with 3 or 2 team members respectively with the Race Director’s permission. A complete set of four team race bib vests, the timing transponder and the team’s shared compulsory gear must be carried to the finish with the remaining racing team members.
• Any complete team withdrawing from the event must notify the nearest event TA or MA marshal or event staff immediately. The withdrawing team then must also visit the race finish line to return their team’s timing transponder and the complete set of race bib vests.
Any teams still on the course at 10:00 pm must take their mobile phone out of the sealed bag and turn it on or off aeroplane mode. They must then call the Course Director (phone number found on race map) and report their position on the course and leave their cell phones on thereafter.
• If teams reach a certain CP or TA after certain times, they must take the fast track route given at the race briefing onto another CP, TA or the finish line.
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Preparation is vital not only to your success in Adventure Racing but also to your enjoyment. When preparing your body, mind & soul and learning new skills, you’ll strengthen your friendships with your team members while enjoying adventurous training weekends in new and exciting places. On this page, you’ll find plenty of information to help your team achieve your adventure racing goals.
Bike Skills with Paula Pietersma from Bikecraft NZ
We know that Mountain biking is a bit daunting for many of you, so we have teamed up with Bike Craft to provide Mountain Bike (MTB) Coaching Clinics to entrants. Clinics are 3 hours and held at 3 different levels: Rookie, Competent and Seasoned Riders
NORTH ISLAND LOCATIONS & DATES: TBC
SOUTH ISLAND LOCATIONS & DATES: TBC
For further details and to register click here.
Girls Adventure Squad
We all know that having some basic fitness, basic bike skills and basic navigation skills makes your @Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race event experience so much more enjoyable. So we are super stoked to welcome Girls Adventure Squad to our family of partners.
Girls Adventure Squad – Andrea, Anna and Robi, are three awesome qualified coaches from Christchurch who love to challenge themselves, get outdoors and have adventures. It is their mission to support women to accomplish their goals big or small. By bringing a community of like-minded women together, their aim is to inspire you to feel strong and empowered.
These ladies specialize in Short, Medium & Long Course Training Plans and Stage 1 & 2 Navigation Training clinics. They will help you upskill, find some structure and smash some goals!
Training Plans and Clinics will run throughout the year, so keep an eye on their website for all dates and options.
Go to the Girls Adventure Squad to sign up today!
National orienteering events
Orienteering NZ has events throughout the year, the vast majority of which will cater to all levels of skill and experience. These events are very affordable and a great way to practice your navigation skills leading up to the Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race. The ‘filters’ at the top of the page are good for narrowing down the search by area/region and type of event foot, MTB, Rogaine, etc.
For more details or to register, please check out their website here.
First timers information – blog site
For all women considering doing their first adventure race, the ‘Adventure Racing Basics’ blogs provide some invaluable reading.
• Blog 1: What is Adventure Racing – Click here.
• Blog 2: Gear and Clothing – Click here.
• Blog 3: Food, Food, Food, What to eat during a race – Click here.
• Blog 4: Preparing your headspace is as important as preparing your body – Click here.
• Blog 5: Navigation for beginners – Click here.
• Blog 6: Question & Answer Session with Debbie Chambers (Spirited Women Event Manager) – Click here.
• Blog 7: 2016 Race report by team #53 – Expedio GOT – Click here.
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Note: The weekend schedule for the 2026 event in Twizel is continual work in progress.
Friday 20th February 2026
12:00noon – 5:00pm – Event registration & expo
Venue: tbc
• Team sign in
• Final check of team details
• Complete registration formalities
• Pick-up teams race bibs, bike plates, & team electronic timing device
• Collect team gift box full of goodies and event merchandise (included in entry fee).
• Sponsors expo – try delectable samples, enter competitions and score some great deals on products from our sponsors.NOTE: One team member can sign in and pick up team gear on behalf of all team members, however, if there is a late change of team member not completed before online entries close at 12noon on Friday 13th February, they must bring a completed copy of the change of team member form with the waiver, signed by the new team member. Click here for the form or see the final pre-event newsletter for a link.
5:30pm – 8:00pm – Release of race notes, CP descriptions, & maps.
Venue: tbc
Long course maps released: 5:30pm – 6:00pm
Medium course maps released: 6:30pm – 7:00pm
Short course maps released: 7:30pm – 8:00pm
Note: Only one person per team (wearing a team race bib) should line up to collect their teams race notes, CP descriptions & maps to reduce congestion.
Team members should then gather to briefly look at race notes & maps to digest the information contained within prior to their allotted event category briefing time. Any questions teams may have will be answered at the race briefing.
6:00pm – 8:45pm – Race briefings
Venue: tbc
Long course race briefing: 6:00pm – 6:45pm
Medium course race briefing: 7:00pm – 7:45pm
Short course race briefing: 8:00pm – 8:45pm
Any questions teams may have will be answered at the race briefing. It is essential that a minimum of one team member attend their race briefing.
IMPORTANT: Any entrants spotted on the event course between 6:00pm on Friday 20th February and their allotted Start Time on Saturday 21st February will automatically forfeit their right to participate.
Saturday 21st February 2026
6:00am – 12:00am (TBC) – Event Day staggered wave starts.
Start venue(s) – Disclosed in the release of the race notes & maps.
Team start times – TBC:
6:00am Start 1 – Long course teams (Bib numbers 1 – 34)
7:00am Start 2 – Medium course teams (Bib numbers 34 – 100)
8:00am Start 3 – Medium course teams (Bib numbers 101 – 167)
9:00am Start 4 – Medium & Short course teams (Bib numbers 168 – 234)
10:00am Start 5 – Short course teams (Bib numbers 235 – 301)
11:00am Start 6 – Short course teams (Bib numbers 302 – 368)
12:00am Start 7 – Short course teams (Bib numbers 367 – 402)12:30pm – 11:30pm – Finish line celebrations
Finish venue(s) – Disclosed in the release of the race maps and notes.
Sunday 22nd February 2026
10:00am – 11:30am – Event awards ceremony and spot prize draw
Venue: tbc.
Please ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes before the event awards ceremony and spot prize draw begins as all participants will need to be given a spot prize ticket. Please see the event staff giving these out on arrival. One ticket per person. Only event participants who are at the event awards ceremony are eligible to win a spot prize.
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Do we require a support crew?
No. That’s right; you read correctly, the Spirited Woman Adventure Race will be unsupported. Therefore, teams will not require, nor are they allowed to receive, support crew assistance during the race. This means teams have to be self-sufficient, transitioning from discipline to discipline themselves and are prohibited from receiving outside assistance during the event.
Are spectators welcome?
Yes. Family members are welcome at the event Start & Finishes on race day and the awards ceremony on the day following.
Can we get away with just one vehicle?
Yes – Provided your vehicle can carry all four bikes, the team members & gear.
Do we have to carry all our race food and water for the duration of the race?
Yes, you will need to carry from the start all food and electrolytes which you believe you will need to complete the race. There are places along the course where your water and electrolyte supplies may be topped up. These will be marked on the competitor’s race map.
If we use clip-in mountain bike shoes, do we need to carry our running shoes with us as well for trekking stages?
Yes, if you choose to use clip-in cycle shoes and pedals on your mountain bike, then you will need a pack of a suitable size to carry your running shoes for foot stages. You will not need to carry your cycle shoes on the foot stages – these and your helmet can be left with the bike.
Where do we find the compulsory gear list?
You can find the compulsory gear list under the Equipment Required & Compulsory Gear page on this website.
Do we require a headlight if we are doing the short or medium course?
Yes. Regardless of how long you believe it will take your team to complete the course you have entered, every team member must carry a headlight and a spare set of fresh batteries. If you have rechargeable lights you must carry a spare light.
Must we have bike lights?
Yes, in line with NZ Law, a front (white) and rear (red) light are both compulsory, when riding in the dark. A rear red light, therefore must be fixed to the mountain bike. Please make sure you secure this well. It is advisable to use a little tape to ensure the light does not rattle loose from the holder and come off whilst riding.
A white light must be fitted facing the direction of travel. This could be fixed to the handlebars or helmet. The headlamp (also a compulsory item) mounted to a rider’s helmet will suffice for the front light.
What type of course maps will be issued?
All course maps issued will be either Topo maps or Orienteering maps (O-maps) or a combination of both. They are printed on waterproof paper to the largest scale suitable to the size of paper used. Contours are shown in 20, 5, 2 or 1meter increments, and there will be a magnetic/true north arrow with declination, scale on each map. Map legends will either be on each map or provided separately.
Can I wear my GPS Watch or cycle computer?
Yes. We allow our participants to wear their GPS watches or cycle computers, however we ask that teams are honest and DO NOT use the watch or computer to assist with route finding. The use of a GPS device to navigate is against the rules.
Can I participate using an e-bike?
No & Yes, not unless the team member has a valid reason and prior approval has been sort from event management.
How do we edit team details and delete (non-captain) team members?
The person who registered the team (the ‘Team Captain’) will need to do this before the close of online entry.
• Go to the Entry Details section on this page.
• Click on the Enter Here button.
• Login to your EventPlus profile using your email and password.
• Click on your ‘short/medium/long course’ entry.
• Make any changes as required to your team entry (i.e., changing the team name or age division).
• Delete any old team members.
• Click ‘Update.
How do I change our team race category?
If you wish to change the race category (short, medium, or long course) for your team races, we can only effect this change for your team if there is still available space in the category you wish to move to. Any change down in course before midnight on 30th September will be eligible for a refund of the difference in the entry fee, less a $40 admin fee. No refunds will be given from 1st October. Any change up in category will be required to pay the additional difference in entry fee. Please contact us by email to see if this can be done.
How can we make team changes after online entries close?
Please print out the attached form here, complete it and bring with you when your team comes to registration to pick up your race box.
How do I find out which start wave our team is in?
The final updated team start wave list will be posted on the event website, on the ‘Timetable’ page.
Can our team start with only two or three members and if so what are the implications of this?
Yes. As a last resort you can start and participate in the event as a team of two or three, however your teams ranking will be placed behind that of all teams starting and finishing with a complete team of four women. If starting as a three person team, a team member will need to sit out the kayak or paddle a craft by themselves, as craft are double vessels. Consequently, we strongly encourage you to search for a replacement team member(s) right up to the event registration expo. If you are unable to start as a complete team, you must inform the event staff at the registration expo when picking up your team race box. This way we know how many people will be starting and out on the course. No part refunds will be given for the missing team member(s).
Will there be Eftpos facility at the registration expo for event merchandise purchases?
No. Please bring cash with you or we will provide you with a bank account to transfer money into using your mobile phone.
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As well as having fun, we understand that those participating in events do so for many reasons – with goals ranging from simply completing the course, to competing to win one’s division or event category outright. We, therefore, endeavour to fairly acknowledge the participation of many while also recognising the achievement of the few.
Acknowledgement of participation
We try to exceed expectation when it comes to providing event participant returns. Each team member will receive some fantastic swag (including an event-branded merchandise, sponsor product samples, and discount vouchers) in their gift pack at the registration expo; plus go in the draw for a share of a bountiful quantity of quality spot prizes at the awards ceremony – from our wonderfully generous family of sponsors.
Spot prize draw prizes
All team members will go in the draw to win some fabulous spot prizes at the awards ceremony. Team members must be present (if drawn) to select their choice from the seriously cool spot prize items on stage.
Please ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes before the event awards ceremony and spot prize draw begins as all participants will need to be given a spot prize ticket. Please see the event staff giving these out on arrival. One ticket per person. Only participants who are at the event awards ceremony are eligible to win a spot prize.
To find out what items you have a chance of winning in the spot prize draw, please like our event Facebook page – here, where we will post photos of prizes as they come in.
Achievement awards
Wonderful event performance prize engraved coasters + fabulous sponsors’ product will be awarded to each team member representing the first to third team place-getters in each age division in each event category. We will also be recognizing the first three overall teams (regardless of age division) in the short, medium & long courses with some amazing Metal Bird Trophies for all team members. A total of 144 team member prizes will be given out.
Short Course
Open women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Veteran women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Masters women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Overall women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rdMedium Course
Open women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Veteran women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Masters women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Overall women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rdLong Course
Open women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Veteran women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Masters women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Overall women’s team – 1st, 2nd, 3rd -
Clyde – 21st – 23rd February 2025
Links to Final PDF excel results
– Long Course results please click here
– Medium Course results please click here
– Short Course results please click here
– Accompanying results letter from the director, please click hereEvent video footage– please click here
Credit to Matt Woods
Event images/race photos – (free to download in two places).
All Pre-Start & Finish team images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number.
The registration, expo, on course Facebook page and event awards images can be found in the photo albums on the event's Facebook page.
Cromwell – 9th – 11th February 2024
Link to results – please click here
Event video footage – please click here.
Credit to Matt WoodsEvent images/race photos – (free to download in two places).
All pre-start & Finish team images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number.
The registration, expo, on course Facebook page and event awards images can be found in the photo albums on the event's Facebook page.
Wanaka – 31st March – 2nd April 2023
Link to results – please click here
Event video footage – please click here
Credit to Matt Woods
Event images/race photos – (free to download).All event images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Rotorua – 17-19th February 2023
Link to results – please click here
Event video footage – please click here
Credit to Matt Woods
Event images/race photos – (free to download)All event images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo and event awards images are on the event's Facebook page.
Central Hawkes Bay – 30th September to 2nd October 2022
Link to results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credit to Matt Woods.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)All event images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo, and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Marlborough – 9th to 11th April 2021
Link for the live results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credit to Matt Woods.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)All event images will be uploaded post-event to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo, and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Whangarei, Northland – 12th to 14th March 2021
Link for the live results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credit to Matt Woods.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)All event images have now been uploaded to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo, and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Alexandra, Central Otago – 14th to 16th February 2020
Link for the live results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credit to Matt Woods.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)All event images have now been uploaded to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo, and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Tairawhiti Gisborne – 22nd to 24th March 2019
Link for the live results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credits to Matt Woods.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)All event images have now been uploaded to the Photos4Sale website here. They are free of charge for our Tairawhiti Gisborne Spirited Women to order and download. Please select the ‘Spirited Women’ event and enter your team number. The registration, expo, and event awards images can be found on the event's Facebook page.
Whakatane/Ohope – 16th March to 18th March 2018
Link for the live results – please click here
Event video footage – Please click here
Credits to Matt Woods & Jason Beacham.Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)
877 low resolution images from the race start & finish images can be found here
1869 low resolution images from the race course can be found here
333 low resolution race course mobile uploaded photos can be found here
124 low resolution images from the registration, expo, and briefing can be found here
64 low resolution Awards Ceremony images can be found here
Credits to Jason Beacham, Digby Shaw, Johny Cook, Roy Schott, & Phil Harris).
Taupo – 31st March to 2nd April 2017
Results by age division
Short course – please click here (PDF document format)
Medium course – please click here (PDF document format)
Long course – please click here (PDF document format)Overall results by event category with stage split results summary
Short course – please click here (PDF document format)
Medium course – please click here (PDF document format)
Long course – please click here (PDF document format)
Event video footage – Please click here
Credits to Matt Woods & Jason Beacham.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)
799 low resolution race images can be found here
352 low resolution finish line images can be found here
55 low resolution awards ceremony images can be found here
Credits to Jason Beacham, Digby Shaw, Johny Cook & Roy Schott.
Rotorua – 1st to 3rd April 2016
Results by age division:
Short course – please click here (PDF document format)
Medium course – please click here (PDF document format)
Long course – please click here (PDF document format)
Overall results by event category:
Short course – please click here (PDF document format)
Medium course – please click here (PDF document format)
Long course – please click here (PDF document format)
Stage split results summary by event category:
Short course – please click here (PDF document format)
Medium course – please click here (PDF document format)Long course – please click here (PDF document format)
Event video footage – Please click here
Credit to John Colthorpe.
Event images/race photo’s – (free to download)
A selection of low resolution race images can be found here:
All low resolution finish line images can be found here
All images at high resolution can be found here:
Registration & yoga images – please click here
Race day images – please click here
Breakfast awards ceremony images – Please click here
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2025/26 Charity Partners –
This year the Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race is partnering with both a Local Charity that is specific to the region where the event is held, and a National Charity or Cause to help foster future generations of Spirited Women.
Local Charity: Mackenzie Wildling Trust
For the 2026 South Island event in Twizel, the Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race has formed a relationship with the Mackenzie Wildling Trust who are working hard with the goal to make the region wildling free.
National Charity: Sir Edmond Hillary Outdoor Education Trust (Hillary Outdoors)
Annually the Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race helps raise valuable funds for Hillary Outdoors - a not for profit organization run by a charitable trust that provides outdoor education primarily to young people. Hillary Outdoors’ philosophy is that all youth, regardless of their finances or ability should be able to develop through adventure. The organisation runs a series of very successful nationwide adventure-based events throughout the year. Without the generous support from sponsors and donors they would not be able to offer what is described by a wide variety of participants as a life-changing experience.