Get There - Stay There
Raetihi is the heart of Blazing Hills.
Set on the edge of the Waimarino, this small rural town is surrounded by wide open hill country, big skies and uninterrupted views toward Mt Ruapehu and the Central Plateau.
The landscape here shapes the event itself. Rolling farmland, steep climbs and long ridgelines create courses that feel honest, challenging and deeply connected to the land.
What makes Raetihi special is not just the scenery, but the sense of place. A supportive local community, working farmland and a genuine connection to the outdoors come together to create an event setting that feels authentic and memorable.
This is not a backdrop. It’s part of the challenge, and part of what makes Blazing Hills what it is.
Getting there
Due to the remote location, it’s best to get to us by car.
Drive times to Raetihi (picnic stops and loo breaks are extra)
From Auckland: under 4 hours
From Wellington: 3.5 hours
From Hamilton: 3 hours
From Rotorua: 2.5 hours
Event Hub Address: Approx 400 Mangaeturoa South Road (follow event signage) - 4KM along this road, please note that this is a farm gate access.
Event Registration Address (Friday): The Centre, 14 Seddon Street, Raetihi https://maps.app.goo.gl/aAKGdPPzxs4ALFp3A
Staying there
Camping - Mangaeturoa School
Thanks to the generosity of the community you can make the most of camping at this now closed school. Located at the top end of Mangaeturoa South Road, just 5 minutes from the Event Hub.
Featuring
Swimming pool (no lifeguards)
Tennis Court
Outdoor kitchen
Toilets (no showers)
The School was closed in 1982 but has been revitalised by the local community to ensure it remains the heart of a community. Your camping fees are helping with the maintenance and development.
Camping $30 per person
Campervan $30 per van
Camping is booked with your entry using the Barefoot Sports portal (and can be added at a later date).
Camping - Raetihi Holiday Park
With Mountain Views, a beautiful scenic bush walk, a Fairy trail and games like Chess, and Connect Four the Park is a great place to stay while you’re in town for Blazing Hills. Enjoy a soak in the Hot Tub while you listen to Birdsong in the Surrounding trees, or pop down and visit the Glow Worms.
Use the code BLAZING HILLS for 10% off all accommodation options including cabins, powered sites and tent sites.
The team from the Raetihi Holiday Park have also generously supplied a discount for Blazing Hills participants for the Bridge to Nowhere Tours and Whanganui River Canoes. Use the code BLAZING HILLS for 10% off any booking.
The Powderhorn - Ohakune
Make the most of your Blazing Hills Race weekend with a stay at the iconic Powderhorn Chateau, located at the gateway to Tongariro National Park. Enjoy alpine comfort, hearty hospitality, and everything you need to unwind after the challenge - from our on-site restaurant and bar to our heated pool and sauna. Conveniently close to the race start line, The Powderhorn offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Snowy Waters Lodge
Snowy Waters Lodge
Perfect for larger families or groups, the Lodge has been converted from old staff accommodation for the Waimarino Hospital set on 5 acres of parklike grounds. Self-contained and self-catering holiday homes with cabins as extra options.
Use the code BLAZING to receive 10% off your booking
