4KM - THE SPARKA loop along the valley with a few hills, for families who want to have some fun.
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
BLAZING HILLS
Run. Walk. Climb. Swing and Sweat
14 MARCH 2026
Embrace the burn
Blazing Hills brings together everything that’s great about Trail Running and Obstacle Course Racing (OCR). Locally run with a big heart and even bigger hills. Those quads of yours? They’ll be blazing by the end, that’s for sure.
The challenge level is yours to choose. From shorter distances for both youth and adults, right through to an adventurous day out, you’ll find the perfect distance or mission to take on.
Our goal is to leave you with that finish line satisfaction, wrapped up in a big small-town pat on the back.
Join us to explore the hills around Raetihi in the Central Plateau, showcasing the Ruapehu region at its best.
Two Events.
One Blazing Day.
Blazing Hills brings together trail running and obstacle course racing in one epic location, on the same electric day.
Each event has its own personality, but they share the same heart. Our event hub and shared finish line gets exceptional reviews, from the homemade tasty delights right up to the hot showers.
When we say you’re genuinely welcome here, we really mean it.
TRAIL RUN EVENT
From first-timers to seasoned trail runners, the Blazing Hills Trail Run offers multiple distances designed to challenge without intimidating.
6KM - THE BURNA loop trail with a few hills. Just right for a social run/walk with friends.
11KM - THE BLAZEIt's a loop with a good quad burning hill. A perfect challenge for those stepping up.
21KM - TRAIL HEAVENA loop trail packed with glorious hills, rewarding views and everything your quads desire!
OBSTACLE COURSE RACE (OCR)
Expect a raw, physical course that rewards resilience, grit and determination. We’ll test your skills no matter the level on one of these great courses.
1.5KM - MINIFLAMESFocusing on FUN! An obstacle taster suited for our youngest ones.
3KM - FIRESTARTERA loop trail with 20+ obstacles. The best way to taste your first OCR.
7KM - FIREBALL30+ obstacles on a loop trail. Featuring fiery hills, and plenty of mud.
10KM - FIRESTORM40+ obstacles and hills to set your quads on fire! The next level OCR challenge!
20KM - TRIFERNOThe ultimate OCR challenge! 90+ obstacles over all 3 distances. Not for the faint of heart.
7KM - FLAMEHUNTERS (TEAM RACE)20+ obstacles taken on in teams of 3. Perfect for fighting the fire together!
THIS ONE'S FOR YOU
Blazing Hills is for those willing to get off the beaten track and into the back country.
Whether you’re stepping up from the road to trail, tackling your first OCR, chasing a fresh challenge, or just out for a good time with friends, YOU belong here.
From youth racers to seasoned athletes, weekend warriors to first-timers, our event welcomes all who want to push their limits and soak up the unique energy only these hills can deliver.
WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS SAY
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