
EVENTS THAT UNITE, COMMUNITIES THAT THRIVE
Let’s make an impact—together!
The Ohakune Events Charitable Trust, hosts exciting events that bring our community together! Your involvement boosts local growth, promotes our stunning region, and ensures a vibrant, sustainable future for Ohakune and the wider Ruapehu district.
OUR EVENTS
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Carrot Carnival
Saturday 31st May 2025
An annual celebration highlighting Ohakune's agricultural heritage and its role as the "Carrot Capital" of New Zealand. The event features a variety of family-friendly activities, including quirky contests, live entertainment, and food stalls, all woven into the region's vibrant community spirit
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Mardi Gras
Saturday 28th June 2025
New Zealand’s most iconic winter festival, celebrated for its high-energy atmosphere and stunning alpine backdrop. Featuring a world-class lineup of international DJs, artists, and performers, the event offers an unforgettable night of music, entertainment, and street party vibes, making it a staple of the winter calendar.
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Christmas in the Park
Friday 19th December 2025
Bringing the community together to celebrate the season with local performances, music, food, and entertainment for the whole family. Expect a joyful and engaging celebration in the heart of Ohakune.
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The Goat
Saturday 17th January 2026
An exhilarating 20-kilometer course set in the stunning Tongariro National Park. With over 1,000 meters of vertical ascent, participants traverse diverse terrain, including ancient lava flows, alpine meadows, and waterfalls, offering breathtaking views. This challenging and scenic event is a must for trail runners
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Sky Waka Vertical Challenge
Coming soon
This event promises to challenge and inspire outdoor enthusiasts. Participants will test their endurance with an exciting vertical race, taking in stunning views as they conquer the terrain.
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Tussock Traverse
Saturday 28th March 2026
An adventurous trail running and walking event in Tongariro National Park, offering various distances: 32km, 21km, 12km, and 6km. Participants experience diverse landscapes, from volcanic rock to wind-sculpted sands, and iconic features like Taranaki Falls, making it a unique, scenic challenge for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Ring of Fire
Returning in 2026
Known for its stunning routes around Mount Ruapehu, features ultra-distances like 72km and 50km, attracting trail runners from around the globe. Currently being reworked, it is set to return in 2026 with its signature blend of adventure and breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
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Ruapehu Express
Returning soon
A unique biking event that showcases the breathtaking terrain of the Ruapehu region. Currently on hiatus, the event is set to make a comeback soon, promising its signature combination of adventure and scenic beauty.
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Ohakune Blues & Roots
Debuting in 2023, OB&R brought together incredible music talent in a vibrant celebration of blues and roots music. Although the festival is currently on hiatus, there is hope for its return soon, promising an exciting revival for music lovers in the region.