What is OCR?
OCR - Obstacle Course Racing!
Do something new!
Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and we’re thrilled to bring it into the spotlight right here in the Central North Island of New Zealand!
OCR is for everyone—whether you’re looking for a solo challenge or want to team up with friends, you’ll find it’s all about having fun while pushing yourself. Participants run, walk, and tackle exciting obstacles like rope climbs, balance beams, monkey bars, wall climbs, and natural features like mud pits and water crossings. It’s a blast!
Distances in the sport can range from quick sprints to longer distance events over 50km. There are even endurance challenges where you see how many laps you can complete in a set time. No matter your level, there’s an OCR adventure for you, and we’re just getting started in New Zealand!
The Blazing Hills courses range from the 1.5km Kids event to the 20km Triferno. Check out our OCR distance options and event categories below!
OCR isn’t just about physical toughness—it’s a true test of mental grit and determination. Every obstacle conquered proves you’re stronger than you think, and you’ll walk away with an incredible sense of achievement and a connection to an amazing community of athletes.
Open or Competitive?
There are two options for entry on race day. The Open and the Competitive. (For the Triferno, there is only a competitive option.)
In the open event categories, it's relaxed and all about having a go. You can complete the course with help if you like, or you can pass an obstacle if need be, without pentalty. We encourage everyone to have a go at every obstacle, but there is no pressure. If you do pass on an obstacle, it does not require mandatory penalty completion but is an option for those wanting the full event experience.
For the competitive event categories, penalty completion as a result of obstacle failure or passing, is mandatory. Note: In the competitive categories, all athletes must have a fair attempt at the obstacle, or qualified reason for no attempt before being deemed as failed. Opting for the penalty without a fair attempt, or qualified reason, will be grounds for disqualification. If you have queries around this before race day, please contact us for clarification.
Check out the rulebook details for specific obstacle rules and guidelines.
You must adhere to all instructions from our event officials/ marshals and first aid team. Failure to do so will result in removal from the course and disqualification.
Event | Description and what to expect: | No. of Obstacles | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimal distance, but plenty of obstacles. Mud crawls, rope climbs, grip and strength challenges. | 20+ | |
Moderate distance - more obstacle action. More mud, crawls, rope traverses, grip, strength, and hanging challenges. Suitable for ages 14+ | 30+ | ||
All the obstacles, all the hills and every challenge. Suitable for ages 14+ | 40+ | ||
For those wanting it ALL and some more! Taking on all 3 distances: the 3km, 7km, and 10km in one day. Maximum action. Not for the faint at heart! Minimum age 18+ | 90+ | ||
A 7km course for teams of 3 with both individual and team-focused obstacles. | 25+ | ||
Fun 1.5km, obstacle-filled race for children under 12. | 15+ |
