what is pillar to pou?

Pillar to Pou is a six-hour endurance event in Taupō, where solo participants and teams of 2-6 participants aim to cover as many 7.3km laps as possible within the six-hour limit. The race runs from the Two Mile Bay Sailing Club to Te Ātea - Tapuaeharuru in town and back, offering stunning lakeside views with every step. Participants can walk or run, with both full (7.3km) and half (3.7km) laps counting toward your total distance, making every effort count.

HOW DOES THE EVENT WORK?

Solo competitors aim to complete as many laps as they can within the six-hour time limit - the event cut off. Teams (2-6 runners or walkers) take turns on the course, swapping runners and walkers to keep the pace up. Each full lap must be completed before a swap in team members can occur. Half laps (3.7km) will count toward your total distance.

who can enter?

Pillar to Pou is designed to be challenging but accessible to participants of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting out, you can set your own pace. Solo runners and walkers, as well as teams, will find a suitable challenge.

There is no minimum age to participate, however it is recommended that kids aged 11 and under run or walk alongside a parent or guardian. We will be hosting a specific kids event for ages 4-15 years ahead of the main event.

are there prizes?

Yes! We will be awarding prizes for:

• Most laps covered - solo (runner and walker, male and female).

• Most laps covered - team (runner and walker, male, female, and mixed team, and by team size: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6).

• Fastest single lap - runner and walker, male and female.

• Age group results will be available, but no official placings or prizes will be awarded.

• Medals for every competitor who completes at least one full lap.

• We’ll also have spot prizes throughout the day, celebrating participants with fun, random giveaways to keep energy high!

how do i register?

Sign up as either a solo competitor or as a part of a team (2-6 participants). For team registration, register yourself and create a new team that your other team members can join, or join a team that has already been set up.

How does lap counting work?

Team members must complete a full 7.3km lap before handing over to another team member, or setting out again. Half lap progress will count if time runs out before a full lap can be completed. You will need to reach at least the turnaround point before time expires or the half lap will not count.

how are times recorded?

Timing mats will be placed at the start line, the finish line, and at the turnaround point on the course. For solo participants, your race number has a disposable timing chip attached to the back, which will track your time. These timing chips do not need to be returned.

In a relay team, your team will be issued a timing strap, which must be passed between teammates in the transition area. Only the time recorded while the timing strap is on course counts toward your team’s total time — transition time is not included

Race numbers must be visible at all times.

How do teams organise their runner swaps?

Teams can decide on their own rotation strategy, depending on their abilities and preferences. A team of 2-6 people can swap out whenever a team member finishes a lap, allowing teammates to maintain optimal performance. You’ll need to decide whether to go fast and rest often, or pace yourselves and run longer intervals.

The incoming team member must cross the timing mat before handing the timing strap to the next runner or walker, who must then secure it before starting their lap.

can i take breaks?

Yes! Solo participants can rest between laps, while team members rotate to stay fresh. Strategy is key to lasting the full six hours.

How will spectators be involved?

Spectators are welcome to come and cheer on participants. The event will have a live leaderboard, so friends and family can track your progress in real time. There will also be an announcer keeping everyone engaged and informed through the day.

how many aid stations are there?

On the course, crewed aid stations will be located at the halfway point, alongside the Te Ātea space. Water and PURE electrolyte drink mixes will be available.

All athletes competing will have exclusive access to a fuel and hydration station, located at the Two Mile Bay Sailing Club, for the duration of the event. Included in your entry is unlimited access to this station, which will include water and sports drinks, bars, fresh fruit and snacks.

what about the weather?

Pillar to Pou will go ahead rain or shine. Early June in Taupō typically sees cooler temperatures, ranging from 5 to 14 degrees celsius. We recommend dressing in layers, wearing waterproof gear if needs, and staying hydrated using the water stations available across the course.

where can I park?

Parking will be available alongside Mapou Road.

what is your cancellation / refund policy?

You can find our cancellation policy here

are there any other rules?

By participating in Pillar to Pou, all athletes agree to follow these rules to ensure a fair, safe, and enjoyable event for everyone.

• Race Numbers: All participants must wear their assigned race number at all times, visibly on the front area of their top.

• Non-competitors: Participants must not be accompanied on the course by anyone who is not officially entered in the main event, unless as a parent or guardian of a child aged 11 or under which is recommended. Adults can accompany a child aged 4-10 years in the kids event.

• Wheeled Devices: For safety reasons, wheeled devices such as bikes, scooters, rollerblades, skateboards, and strollers are not allowed on the course. Wheelchairs are permitted.

• Pets: Pets are not permitted on the course as running companions.

• Headphones & Music Devices: The use of headphones or personal music devices is discouraged but not prohibited. Runners should remain aware of their surroundings and fellow participants.

• Course Safety: Participants must stay on the marked course at all times. Off-course running or shortcuts may result in disqualification.

• Health & Safety: If you feel unwell or unable to continue, please seek assistance at one of the medical stations located along the course. Medical personnel are available in case of emergencies.

• Hydration & Fuel: Participants should make use of the hydration stations available throughout the course. It is important to stay hydrated before, during, and after the race.

• Timing: Participants must cross the start and finish timing mats to ensure their time is recorded.

• Respect for Others: All participants must show respect for fellow athletes, volunteers, and spectators. Negative behavior such as unsporting conduct or verbal abuse may lead to disqualification.