Challenge Wānaka is widely regarded as one of the most scenic triathlons on the planet and next year it will help herald the new partnership between Challenge Family and the PTO (Professional Triathletes Organisation).

Held on the south island of New Zealand in February, its showpiece race has been previously been regarded as being over the classic middle distance of a 1.9km swim, a 90km bike and a 13.1km run.

The run distance is a half marathon and those distances mirror IRONMAN 70.3 events.

However in February this year the PTO acquired a majority shareholding in Challenge Family to make it a key part of the newly-launched Triathlon World Tour which will grow to approximately 80 events from 2027 onwards.

‘A more unified international racing structure’

And the changes to Wānaka announced this week look to be the first demonstration of that in action.

From 2027, the event previously known as the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half will evolve into the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka 100, featuring a 2km swim, 80km bike, and 18km run.

That is exactly the distance of a T100 race.

The press release from Challenge said: “The move aligns with the evolving direction of the global Challenge Family series and its transition alongside the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO), as the sport moves toward a more unified international racing structure from 2027.

“The new 100km format positions the middle-distance race as the centrepiece of the festival while aligning with emerging global race formats – all while maintaining the event’s signature Challenge Wānaka experience of world-class racing in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine settings.”

‘Where triathlon is heading globally’

Challenge Wānaka Race Director Jane Sharman said the introduction of the new distance marks a step forward for the event: “This is an exciting evolution for Challenge Wānaka and for the sport as a whole.

“The 100km distance reflects where triathlon is heading globally, while still delivering the challenge, stunning backdrop, and community feel that athletes love about racing here.

“We’re proud to be part of a global series that continues to innovate and grow, and we’re looking forward to bringing this new format to Wānaka in 2027.”

Entries open in mid-May

The event will continue under the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka festival banner, with the newly named Challenge Wānaka 100 taking centre stage on Saturday 20 February 2027.

Challenge Wānaka celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2026 and remains one of New Zealand’s most iconic triathlon festivals, known for its strong community support, athlete-first approach, and spectacular alpine setting.

The pro races this year were won by Tamara Jewett and Jack Moody.

“While the format is evolving, what makes Challenge Wānaka special remains unchanged,” Sharman added.

“It’s the people, the place, and the experience – and we’re excited to welcome athletes back for this next chapter.”

Entries for the 2027 event open on 15 May 2026, with strong demand again expected.