MARTINBOROUGH CHARITY FUN RIDE

Location: NZ - North
Date: Sunday, November 15, 2026

Experience the return of the beloved Martinborough Charity Fun Ride, an essential calendar event for Kiwi cyclists since 1995. Set against the stunning backdrop of Wairarapa's wine country, this community-focused event welcomes cyclists of all abilities for a day of riding, camaraderie, and charitable giving.

Since its 1995 inception by Jan & Geoff Lankow, this iconic ride has raised over $130,000 for local charities. After a brief hiatus, the event returns stronger than ever through a partnership between the Rotary Club of South Wairarapa, Athletics and Cycling Masterton, and event sponsor Ride Holidays. The ride's prestigious history includes participation from Olympians Gary Anderson and Kate McIlroy, alongside other notable New Zealanders.

Date: Sunday, 15 November 2026

Location: Martinborough, Wairarapa, New Zealand

Start Times:

  • 115km Ride: 9:00 AM
  • 67km Ride: 9:15 AM
  • 48km Ride: 9:30 AM

Event Type: Charity road cycling event

Distance Options:

  • 115km Challenge
  • 67km Classic
  • 48km Experience

Each route showcases the picturesque Wairarapa countryside with its rolling hills, vineyards, and colonial charm. The 115km Challenge features two loops, beginning with the scenic Gladstone circuit before returning through Martinborough for the additional 48km loop. The 67km Classic takes riders through the beautiful Gladstone region, while the 48km Experience offers a perfect introduction to the area's gentle terrain and stunning vistas.

All courses start and finish at the Martinborough Rugby Club on New York Street, with the routes carefully designed to showcase the region's finest cycling roads while accommodating various skill levels.

  • Early Bird: $50
  • Standard: $65
  • Junior (16 and under): $30
  • Late Registration: Additional $10 (race day only)

Registration includes: Timing, course marshaling, and entry into prize draws.

Race pack collection: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM at Martinborough Rugby Club

Course marshaling until 1:30 PM (4.5 hours to complete the 115km course)

Food truck and coffee cart available at start/finish

Note: Participants must carry their own fluids (no drink stations provided)

Event organiser: Rotary Club of South Wairarapa

Email: admin@mcfr.org.nz

Website: mcfr.org.nz

Facebook: /martinboroughcharityfunride

By Car:

  • From Wellington: 1 hour 30 minutes via SH2 (85km)
  • From Palmerston North: 1 hour 45 minutes via SH2 (110km)
  • From Masterton: 30 minutes via SH2 (30km)

Public Transport:

  • Metlink train service to Featherston
  • Connecting bus service to Martinborough

Parking:

  • Free parking available near the Martinborough Rugby Club
  • Additional parking in the town centre (5-minute walk)

Make a weekend of it by exploring Martinborough and the surrounding Wairarapa region.

Wine Experiences

Outdoor Activities

Accommodation

Book accommodation early as the region is popular with weekend visitors from Wellington.

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