FAQ's

What are the entry fee prices and when do they change?

2024 Entry Fees (All entry fees exclude a $4.00 online booking fee)

Early Bird Entry Fees (ends midnight 30th September 2023)

Full Long Course Weekend NZ - $300.00
Half Long Course Weekend NZ - $250.00
Quarter Long Course Weekend NZ - $200.00

Huub Swim Karapiro
1km - $40.00
1.9km - $45.00
3.8km - $50.00

Shorland Peugeot Cycle Karapiro
50km (incl E-Bike) - $70.00 
90km (incl E-Bike) - $80.00
180km - $90.00

Thorlo Karapiro Marathon
Kids' 2.5km fun run - $10.00
5km run/walk - $30.00
10.5km run/walk - $45.00
Half Marathon (21.1km) run/walk - $75.00
Marathon (42.2km) run only - $95.00

Standard Entry Fees (1st October 2023 - midnight 24th March 2024)

Full Long Course Weekend NZ - $325.00
Half Long Course Weekend NZ - $275.00
Quarter Long Course Weekend NZ - $225.00

Huub Swim Karapiro
1km - $45.00
1.9km - $50.00
3.8km - $55.00

Shorland Auto Cycle Karapiro
50km (incl E-Bike) - $75.00 | Tandem - $85.00
90km (incl E-Bike) - $85.00 | Tandem - $95.00
180km - $95.00 | Tandem - $105.00

Thorlo Karapiro Marathon
Kids' 2.5km fun run - $10.00
5km run/walk - $35.00
10.5km run/walk - $50.00
Half Marathon (21.1km) run/walk - $80.00
Marathon (42.2km) run only - $105.00

Late Entry Fees (25th March - 9am 10th April 2024 and During Race Weekend, 12th - 14th April 2024)

Full Long Course Weekend NZ - $350.00
Half Long Course Weekend NZ - $300.00
Quarter Long Course Weekend NZ - $250.00

Huub Swim Karapiro 
1km - $50.00
1.9km - $55.00
3.8km - $60.00

Shorland Peugeot Cycle Karapiro 
50km (incl E-Bike) - $80.00 | Tandem - $90.00
90km (incl E-Bike) - $90.00 | Tandem - $100.00
180km - $100.00 | Tandem - $110.00

Thorlo Karapiro Marathon
Kids' 2.5km fun run - $10.00
5km run/walk - $40.00
10.5km run/walk - $55.00
Half Marathon (21.1km) run/walk - $85.00
Marathon (42.2km) run only - $115.00

Are there age restrictions for entry types?

Yes. An entry type will not be shown to you during the registration process if you do not meet the minimum age requirements. The age restrictions are as follows:

Full Long Course Weekend: 18+ Years

Half Long Course Weekend: 16+ Years

Quarter Long Course Weekend: 14+ Years

Huub Swim Karapiro: 1km – 12+ Years, 1.9km – 16+ Years, 3.8km – 18+ Years

Shorland Peugeot Cycle Karapiro: 50km – 14+ Years, 90km – 16+ Years, 180km – 18+ Years

Thorlo Karapiro Marathon: 2.5km - Under 14 Years, 5km – 10+ Years, 10.5km – 12+ Years, 21.1km – 16+ Years, 42.2km – 18+ Years

Do I have to be a member of a club to enter?

No – all LCW events are open to all club and non-club members.

How do I know for sure that I am entered?

If all went well, you should receive a confirmation email and e-ticket / invoice at the email address you provided. Also check your spam/junk just in case.

If you can’t see your entries, contact us at [email protected]

What is the closing date for entries?

Providing the event does not sell out, the closing date for online registration will be Wednesday 10th April 2024 at 9:00am. Entries made onsite at the events will be available on 12th - 14th April 2024 for those that have not registered online ahead of time.

Entry Fees Change on the following dates / times:

Early Bird Entry Fees are live until midnight 30th September 2023
Standard Entry Fees are live from 12:01am 1st October 2024 until midnight 24th March 2024
Late Entry Fees are live from 12:01am 25th March 2024 until 9:00am 10th April 2024. A reminder that these prices will be the prices onsite at the event/s if needing to register on the day / weekend.

Do you have a 'waiting list' for late entries?

We do not have a waiting list as we already take into account expected cancellations when assigning a cap limit to our events. We suggest booking in early to guarantee a place.

When and where is Long Course Weekend New Zealand?

Long Course Weekend New Zealand is from 12th - 14th April 2024 in and around Karāpiro.

Registration will be based at the Sir Don Rowlands Centre at the Mighty River Doman, 601 Maungatautari Road, Leamington, Karāpiro.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the closure of the dam, there will be NO vehicle access to the venue via the dam if coming from a southern direction. You will need to go via Cambridge, so allow an extra 20mins to get there

What distances are there for each event?

We offer the opportunity for you participate in one of numerous different distances per discipline. Below is a summary of the distances per discipline.

Swim – 1km, 1.9km, 3.8km.

Bike (including Tandems) – 50km, 90km, 180km.

E-Bike – 50km, 90km

Walk – 2.5km, 5km, 10.5km, 21.1km

Run – 2.5km, 5km, 10.5km, 21.1km, 42.2km

Quarter LCW – 1km Swim, 50km Bike, 10.5km Run

Half LCW – 1.9km Swim, 90km Bike, 21.1km Run

Full LCW – 3.8km Swim, 180km Bike, 42.2km Run

Do I have to enter the same distance lengths if entering multiple disciplines eg. short swim (1km), short bike (50km), short run (5km)?

No, if you are more confident or experienced in one or more discipline you can enter a longer distance in that and then a shorter distance for a discipline you are just starting out in.

Is there a kids event?

We encourage all our littlest LCW athletes to join their parent/s, older siblings or everyday hero by joining in on the 'Run with a Loved One". Run with a Loved One allows the littlest LCW athletes to join their everyday hero for the final 200m of the run day to run down the finish chute together and cross the finish line. 

We know families are so important when you're training for your chosen goal and often the kids are out there cheering you on, riding their bike alongside you or hitting the trails - therefore, they deserve their finish line moment as well. 

Besides Run with a Loved One, we also encourage younger participants to sign up for either the Kids' 2.5km fun run (U14 age limit) or the 5km distance (10 years+) within the Karāpiro Marathon event held on Sunday 14th April 2024, the final day of the Long Course Weekend New Zealand.

Do I have to participate all three days?

No, it is not mandatory. You can participate in only one discipline or enter two or all three.

Can I enter for someone else?

You can enter fellow family members, as long as you provide all of their correct personal details and take full responsibility for allocating their entry types.

Where do I need to be and when?

For all event itinerary, please check out the event timetable here.

When will the event packs be sent?

Everything you need to know about the Long Course Weekend will be communicated two days before the event via e-mail (Wednesday 10th April 2024).

This will include finalised event timings.

It is important to carefully read through this information as details may be different to those on the website. We recommend using the online Event Pack as a guide, as an email will be sent to the email address you registered with notifying you of final details and possible amendments. 

2024 Final Competitor Notes

LCW Full/Quarter/Half HERE

HUUB Swim Karapiro HERE

Shorland Peugeot Cycle Karapiro HERE

Thorlo Karapiro Marathon HERE

When will I receive my timing chip and BIB number?

This will be provided to you at registration in Karāpiro at the Sir Don Rowland Centre. Placement of bib numbers and timing transponders will be explained in your event pack before the event day. 

What can I wear?

As with all events, we highly recommend racing as your train – this ensures you are comfortable with your ability and know your limits. Try open water swimming before competing if possible, and do not use brand new equipment for the event without trying it out first.

Pre Race: Make sure to check the weather on race day so you can prepare correctly and ensure you have necessary waterproof layers/breathable layers and sun screen.

Swim: A wetsuit is not mandatory but is advised for all swim distances. If you do wear a wetsuit, it must NOT cover the hands and feet and must be no thicker than 5mm. Goggles are necessary in all open water swims. Polarised goggles are recommended to reduce glare and increase visual acuity. It may also be worth bringing a clear-lensed pair if conditions are less than ideal. Swim Caps will be issued by Event Promotions for Swim Karapiro / Long Course Weekend New Zealand and must be worn on the day. If you wish to wear two swim caps, the issued swim cap MUST be worn on top. Timing transponders will be provided during registration and correct placement will be informed in your event pack and when collected at registration. Gloves and booties cannot be worn without a medical certificate and in no instances are webbed gloves or snorkels allowed.

Cycle: Event bib numbers MUST be worn at all times. Approved cycling helmets MUST be worn at all times.

Run/Walk: Event bib numbers MUST be worn at all times on your front torso. We highly recommend wearing proper running shoes that have been correctly fitted to avoid discomfort during the run/walk.

Can I pick up someone else’s registration

For safety and security reasons you must check in at registration yourself. This avoids mix-ups with announcements, emergency contact information on the reverse of the race number, finisher photos and race timing.

Is there an event briefing?

There will be an event briefing at the start of each event day and for each discipline distance.  

These will be 10 minutes before the start of each event category and will be done on the start line.

Can I use an mp3 player, airpods or similar device?

No, we do not allow participants to use these devices during any of the races. It is important that you stay fully alert and know what is happening around you as the courses are on public roads/areas.

Will there be road closures during the bike and run days?

The health and safety of competitors is our top priority. There will be traffic management in place for the bike and run days, but participants must be aware of traffic around them as the roads are not fully closed to the public and residents of the area. If this information changes, we will advise.

Where is the best place to park?

Parking is available throughout the main venue of the Mighty River Domain with plenty of grassed areas to park on. Please enter in Gate 2 and follow parking signs/warden’s directions. If parking is full on site, there are nearby areas which will be safe for you to leave your car.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the closure of the dam, there will be NO vehicle access to the venue via the dam if coming from a southern direction. You will need to go via Cambridge, so allow an extra 20mins to get there

What is on offer at the sponsor showcase?

The showcase will be available each day of the event within the Sir Don Rowlands Centre and will have any brands who wish to interact and speak to participants regarding their products and services. 

How do I find out my official event time?

The Timing Team are the official timing company for the Long Course Weekend New Zealand. Official event times will be available after each day of events on the websites under the ‘results’ tab.

What is the prize structure?

We have amazing finishers medals for all competitors who cross the finish line. There will be top placing medals for the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd overall male and female for each discipline/distance and age group (39 and under OR 40 and over). These will be awarded at prize giving at the end of each event day.

NOTE: E-Bike podium awards will be given to first female & male over the line in each distance only. Tandem podium awards will be given to the first tandem bike over the line in each distance only.

We will also be awarding our Full Long Course Weekend athletes with the coveted fourth medal to top their medal stack. This takes place at the start of prize giving on Sunday 14th April during the Karapiro Marathon prize giving. We will also be awarding the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd overall awards for male and female for the Full, Half and Quarter LCW NZ.

All entrants will also be in the draw for a great selection of spot prizes that are up for grabs during each day’s prize giving.

What other events do you organise?

Event Promotions Ltd are the event organisers who have brought Long Course Weekend to New Zealand from the amazing global team based in Wales. Long Course Weekend is held in various other countries which can be found from our Long Course Weekend New Zealand website. Event Promotions event calendar and event dates can be found on the Event Promotions website here.

What are the cut-off times for the Full LCW?

The cut-off times are below. These can be used for any athlete taking part in the Full Long Course Weekend New Zealand entry type and the largest distances for each specific discipline:

- Huub Swim Karāpiro: Athletes will have 1:00:00 hour from the start time to complete the first lap of the 3.8km swim course. For safety reasons, no athlete can begin a new lap of the course after 5:00pm.

- Shorland Peugeot Bike Karāpiro: Athletes will have 9:00:00 hours from the start time to complete the 180km bike course and 4:15:00 hours to complete the 90km bike course (based on cycling at an average pace of 19kph). For safety reasons, no athlete can begin a new lap of the course after 1:00pm (this is the 137km mark on the 180km course).

- Thorlo Karāpiro Marathon: Athletes will have 7:00:00 hours from the start time to complete the 42.2km run course. For safety reasons no athlete can commence a new lap of the course after 1:00pm (this is the 31.5km mark on the 42.2km course).

What is the postponement date for the LCW NZ event?

There is no postponement date for LCW NZ.

What can I wear?

A wetsuit is not mandatory but is advised for all swim distances. If you do wear a wetsuit, it must NOT cover the hands and feet and must be no thicker than 5mm. Goggles are necessary in all open water swims. Polarised goggles are recommended to reduce glare and increase visual acuity. It may also be worth bringing a clear-lensed pair if conditions are less than ideal. Swim Caps will be issued by Event Promotions for Swim Karapiro / Long Course Weekend New Zealand and must be worn on the day. If you wish to wear two swim caps, the issues swim cap MUST be worn on top. Timing transponders will be provided during registration and correct placement will be informed in your event pack and when collected at registration. Gloves and booties cannot be worn without a medical certificate and in no instances are webbed gloves or snorkels allowed.

What stroke can I do?

We only allow front facing strokes during the course. If you are on your back, swim safety will assume you’re in trouble and take you out of the water.

Is the water safe to swim in?

Yes it is safe to swim in. The water is monitored for 12 weeks over the summer period (beginning of December to end of February) and data from the past three monitored bathing seasons shows that the overall recreation risk here is low. The lake is a very popular location and is used extensively throughout the year, with extensive use over summer for water sports such as water-skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, rowing and swimming. It is the chosen swim training location for New Zealand’s elite triathletes. You can read more here.

NOTES ABOUT THE RIVER CLAM OUTBREAK IN NEW ZEALAND: 

In terms of the biosecurity for the event, we are following MPI's CHECK CLEAN DRY guidelines specifically for swimmers and their wetsuits. This applies to all water equipment, whenever anyone is moving between rivers and lakes, not just during major events. These cleaning protocols are particularly important for stopping the spread of the juvenile clams (and other unwanted invasives) as they are invisible to the naked eye and have a mucus thread which can attach to wetsuits and other water equipment. These clams are extremely invasive and it only takes the introduction of 1 individual (as they can breed asexually) to a new lake or river to establish a new breeding population.

We require all of the competitors to abide by the following cleaning procedures:

Before arrival: If wetsuits have been used outside of Lake Karapiro in the past 30 days, these need to be submerged in hot water (55 degrees) for 5 mins AND fully dried for 2 days before arriving, alternatively overnight freezing is an option too. This is to prevent pests from arriving at Lake Karapiro that are not already present eg, Didymo.

Post event: All of the wetsuits need to be submerged in hot water (55 degrees) for 5 mins and dried for 2 days before they are able to be used again, alternatively overnight freezing is an option too. This applies even if the wetsuits will next be used in salt water as the clams can survive in this environment. This protocol is to prevent the spread of invasive pests to other water bodies by the competitors.

Unfortunately there is no access to large quantities of hot water at the domain so these hot water cleaning procedures will have to take place at home. Detergent is also ineffective against clams and bleach will likely damage the wetsuits.

Further info can be found here:

https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/exotic-pests-and-diseases-in-new-zealand/pests-and-diseases-under-response/freshwater-gold-clam/

What safety measures are in place?

There will be a fully qualified and professional swim safety team present in the water, with kayaks to ensure a quick response to any situation. The water safety team will be in the water from half an hour before the event begins up until the last athlete exits the water. This allows for acclimatisation before the race starts.

Is there a cut-off time?

Athletes will have 1:00:00 hour from the start time to complete the first lap of the 3.8km swim course. For safety reasons, no athlete can begin a new lap of the course after 5:00pm.

What can I wear?

Event bib numbers MUST be worn at all times. Approved cycling helmets MUST be worn at all times.

How is the start organised?

Start times for each distance is available on the event itinerary.

Wave 1 will be our Full LCW athletes followed by the remaining 180km cyclists. All waves will go on a first come first served basis / self seeding.

Our 90km and 50km cyclist and e-cyclist groups will start at their allocated times.

Can I choose my wave/start time for Cycle Karapiro?

No. You will be allocated your start time for your chosen distance however you are able to put yourself anywhere in the starting field, be that at the front or towards the back.

What type of bike can I use?

Road bikes are recommended however you can ride mountain bikes, gravel bikes or time trial bikes if that is your preference. E-Bikes are also allowed as we have included an E-Bike section for the 50km and 90km distances. There is also a Tandem category for all 3 distances.

Please note: Although Time Trial bikes are allowed in the event, under no circumstances are you allowed to use your aerobars whilst riding in bunches/near other cyclists for safety reasons. Aerobars do not belong in bunch rides as they are dangerous and do not allow riders to easily access their brakes. Any riders not adhering to the event rules will not be permitted to start or will be immediately disqualified if seen using aerobars during the event in bunches/near other riders and removed from the course.

Can I draft?

Yes we do allow drafting in this event, however if drafting you are NOT allowed to use aerobars. A reminder that aerobars are NOT to be used whilst riding in bunches or near other riders.

Any riders not adhering to the event rules will not be permitted to start or be immediately disqualified if seen using aerobars during the event in bunches/near other riders and removed from the course.

Is there any equipment I can't use?

Illegal equipment includes, but is not limited to: headphone(s), headset(s) or technical earplugs, glass containers, personal video recording devices, personal listening devices. If seen using any of the equipment listed, you will automatically be disqualified from the event and removed from the course. 

Please Note: Tribars/aerobars are allowed to remain attached to your bike and used when you are NOT in bunches/near other riders. Under no circumstances are they allowed to be used whilst drafting in bunches/near other riders.

What is available at the aid stations?

There will be water and an electrolyte drink option available at the aid station. If you are planning on carrying your own nutrition then please dispose of your litter at the aid station or finish line in the provided bins. If you can carry it full you can carry it empty.

We are passionate about keeping the areas where we run events clean and tidy, and anyone found littering will be disqualified without appeal.

What support is available out on the bike courses?

There will be roaming motorbikes and vehicles to assist anyone who requires it whilst out on the bike course. 

Please note that you must carry your own spare tyres/tubes and any equipment needed to replace a flat tyre. The support team will not provide this gear, but simply assist you in making a change/repair.

Will the event be timed with timing chips?

Yes, each cyclist will be allocated a bib number which you will collect at registration. This will have timing transponders integrated into one of your numbers, so make sure it is secure and will remain on your seat post for the entire event. More info on this is available in the event pack.

Is there a cut-off time?

Athletes will have 9:00:00 hours from the start time to complete the 180km bike course and 4:15:00 hours to complete the 90km bike course (based on cycling at an average pace of 19kph). For safety reasons, no athlete can begin a new lap of the course after 1:00pm (this is the 137km mark on the 180km course).

Is there an E-Bike or Tandem Category?

We welcome e-cyclists to enter into either the 50km or 90km E-Bike Cycle Karapiro distances. You will have a separate start from the other cyclists. 

Tandems can take part in all 3 distances.

E-Bike podium awards will be given to first female & male over the line in each distance only.

Tandem podium awards will be given to the first tandem bike over the line in each distance only.

Is the marathon extremely competitive or can people of all abilities take part?

We have runners of varying ability and experience taking part – for many this will be their first marathon, while we also have elite runners entering.  

What is the terrain like for the run?

The run is on a variation of flat to undulating surfaces with some spectacular scenery.

Despite majority of all distances being flat to undulating, there are a couple of short steep climbs included. We encourage you to check out the course maps here and also look at the elevation here to see where the short steep climbs are located.

Is there a cut-off time for the marathon (42.2km) run?

Athletes will have 7:00:00 hours from the start time to complete the 42.2km run course. For safety reasons no athlete can commence a new lap of the course after 1:00pm (this is the 31.5km mark on the 42.2km course).

What can I wear?

Event bib numbers MUST be worn at all times on your front torso. We highly recommend wearing proper running shoes that have been correctly fitted to avoid discomfort during the run/walk.

Is there a 'Walkers' Category?

Yes, we know how popular walking events are here in New Zealand so we have added a walking entry type for the 5km, 10.5km and 21.1km distances.

When entering, please ensure you enter the WALKING category as this will give you a walkers bib number allocation.
Please note: Any athletes registered as WALKERS will be automatically disqualified if they are witnessed to be jogging/running at any stage during the event. 

How do I volunteer?

If you wish to become a volunteer for the Long Course Weekend New Zealand, email us at [email protected] with the subject “LCW NZ Volunteer”. We welcome interest from individuals, school, or club groups.

What will I be doing as a volunteer?

There are a range of exciting jobs, from suppling athletes with the nutrition they need, handing out medals to the athletes at the finish line, guiding athletes out on the courses and ensuring the safety of both athletes and spectators. As well as being great fun and a fantastic way to enjoy the Long Course Weekend New Zealand, this voluntary work looks great on a CV and shows good team working ability and responsibility.

When will I be needed?

With there being events across the weekend, ideally you could be available to help on multiple days, however this is not essential. Times vary, but typically volunteers will need to be on site about an hour before the event starts each day.

I need to travel to Karapiro on the weekend, can you help?

Full details of road closure details will be available once confirmed with local authorities. Please note that road closures are applicable to ALL vehicles, including athletes, so plan accordingly.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the closure of the dam, there will be NO vehicle access to the venue via the dam if coming from a southern direction. You will need to go via Cambridge, so allow an extra 20mins to get there

What roads will be closed?

A full list of road closures will be available here on the website. If road closures are yet to be confirmed this will be updated as soon as we receive confirmation.

Do I need to pay to watch?

No! Access to all viewing areas is completely free and most are wheelchair friendly.

Where is the best place to watch the swimming?

For the swim, which starts and finishes at the Karapiro Rowing Club’s boat ramp, there will be access to view the swimmers along the grass banks along the side of Lake Karapiro, as well as on the concrete terrace seating in front of the Sir Don Rowlands Center.

The 3.8km swimmers will also be running out of the water and in front of the terrace seating to start their second lap so this is a great area to spectate and get some amazing action shots!

Where is the best place to watch the cycling?

Answer coming soon!

Where is the best place to watch the running?

Answer coming soon!

Can I change the distance of the event I’ve entered?

If you are wanting to change the distance of an event you have entered you will need to email us at [email protected] with your full name, original distance entered in and the new distance you wish to enter. This can be done up to 14 days prior to the event. After this time, please see the staff at registration to make your changes.

I am no longer able to participate, what are my options?

If you are unable to participate due to injury, sickness or simply no longer wanting to attend the event you have the below options available to you as stated in our Terms and Conditions here. 

Can I transfer / defer my entry?

Please read over the options available to you as stated in our Terms and Conditions here. 

What happens if the event is postponed or cancelled?

Please read over the options available to you as stated in our Terms and Conditions here.