LE RACE

Location: NZ - South
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

LeRace stands as Canterbury's premier cycling challenge, transforming the historic route from Cathedral Square to Akaroa into an unforgettable test of cycling prowess. From the urban start through the challenging Port Hills and along the summit ridge to the French-inspired finish, this 100km journey combines serious racing with community spirit. Whether you're chasing KOM points on the legendary Hilltop climb or sharing the challenge in a relay team, LeRace delivers an authentic Kiwi cycling experience.

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

Location: Start - Cathedral Square, Christchurch Finish - Le Domain, Akaroa

Event Type: Road cycling race/challenge

Distance Options:

  • Full Course: 100km (significant elevation)
  • Relay Option: Split into 53.65km and 46.35km segments

Start Time: 8:00am (Race village opens 7am)

The route showcases Canterbury's diverse landscape, beginning in Cathedral Square before tackling the Port Hills via the Sign of the Kiwi climb. Riders then navigate eight technical cattle stops along the spectacular Summit Road before descending to Little River. The legendary Hilltop climb provides the final major challenge before the swooping descent into historic Akaroa.

Solo Entry:

  • Early Bird (until Feb 5): NZD $150
  • Standard: NZD $170
  • Late Entry (from March 5): NZD $180

Team Options:

  • Relais 2 (relay): from NZD $170
  • Ensemble 4 (team challenge): from NZD $150
  • Tandem: from NZD $185

Registration includes timing, course support, and event medal.

  • Elite/Age Group Racing
  • Relais 2 (two-person relay)
  • Ensemble 4 (four-person team challenge)
  • Mountain Bike Challenge
  • E-Bike Category
  • Clydesdale (100kg+ riders)
  • King/Queen of the Mountain Challenge
  • Best Costume Competition
  • Professional medical support from St John's
  • Feed stations along course
  • Technical support at key points
  • Comprehensive route marking
  • Mandatory pre-race safety checks at Scotty Browns Bike Emporium (1st-21st March)
  • Race pack collection at Golden Homes (Friday 21st March)
  • Bag transport to finish line ($5)
  • Website: lerace.co.nz
  • Email: notjustevents@xtra.co.nz
  • Social Media: @LeRaceNZ

By Air:

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) services domestic and international flights
  • Direct flights from:
  • Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast)
  • Major NZ cities (Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown)
  • Airport to city centre: 20-25 minutes
  • Transport options:
  • Airport shuttle ($25-35)
  • Taxi/Ride share ($45-65)
  • Public bus #29 ($8.50)

By Road:

  • From Queenstown: 6 hours via SH8
  • From Dunedin: 4.5 hours via SH1
  • From Picton: 4.5 hours via SH1
  • From Wellington:
  • Drive on ferry (3.5 hours) + drive (4.5 hours)
  • Or fly direct (50 minutes)

By Bus:

  • InterCity services from all major South Island destinations
  • Daily connections from Dunedin, Queenstown, and West Coast
  • Comfortable coaches with bike transport available (must be boxed)

Bike Transport:

  • Most domestic flights accept bikes (additional fee applies)
  • Must be professionally boxed
  • Pre-booking essential
  • Local bike shops can assist with assembly/disassembly

Turn your race weekend into a complete Canterbury experience. From pre-race preparation in vibrant Christchurch to post-race recovery in charming Akaroa, the region offers activities for both serious cyclists and their supporters. Whether you're seeking last-minute training routes, family entertainment, or French-inspired dining, both cities provide distinctive experiences that showcase the best of New Zealand's South Island.

General Activities:

Recovery Activities:

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