Twizel Hard Labour Weekend: Latest News & Announcements

Youth Hard Labourer sold out

September 27, 2026

🎉 The Youth Hard Labourer is officially SOLD OUT! All 20 spots are filled for our 2026 youth challenge. A huge thank you to everyone who entered. We can’t wait to see you kayaking Lake Ruataniwha, riding the Dusky Trail and running the Pyramid Run course this October. Thanks also to Southern Lakes Helicopters for supporting the Youth Hard Labourer 🚁 Missed out? You can still enter the Dusky Trail MTB and Pyramid Run individually! 🚵🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♂️

Soaring support from The Helicopter Line!

September 14, 2026

Soaring support from The Helicopter Line! We’re thrilled to have The Helicopter Line, part of the Totally Tourism family, on board as a Meridian Twizel Hard Labour Weekend supporter this year. They’ve kindly sponsored a spot prize for one of our participants: two seats on a 25 minute Alpine Vista scenic flight, complete with a snow landing amongst the Southern Alps. That’s not all. The Helicopter Line and its sister brands, Milford Sound Scenic Flights and Mitre Peak Cruises, are inviting all Hard Labour Weekend participants to experience more of our incredible region. Book...

Free Youth Kayak Training

September 13, 2026

🛶 Youth Kayak Training – Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 October Whether you’ve already entered the Youth Hard Labourer or you’re still deciding, this one’s for you. We’re excited to have Danika from Canoe Racing New Zealand running free kayak training sessions on Lake Ruataniwha over the school holidays, helping get our Youth Hard Labourer paddlers ready for the big day. 💪 📍 Where: Lake Ruataniwha Lagoon (off Freda De Fur Ave) 🗓️ When: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October, 9:30am each day (a second session at 11am...

Exclusive Tekapo Springs & Stargazing Offer for Hard Labour Participants

August 25, 2026

Recover, recharge, and reward yourself with a special offer from Tekapo Springs and Tekapo Stargazing. Whether you’re easing tired muscles after the event or preparing for your big effort, participants in the Meridian Twizel Hard Labour Weekend can enjoy: 10% off one-day hot pools tickets 10% off stargazing tour tickets This offer is valid 23–26 October 2026 for event participants only. How to claim your discount: For online bookings, use code HardLabour10*. Or simply visit Tekapo Springs reception and show your race bib or Race Roster confirmation email. Take the chance to soak...

2026 poster and entries are open

July 18, 2026

Our 2026 poster is up! Entries for Meridian Twizel Hard Labour Weekend (Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October 2026) are now open, so get in and sign up. New this year, our Youth Hard Labourer event adds a 5km kayak leg on Lake Ruataniwha alongside the mountain bike and run. See poster Enter now

15% Off Scenic Flights with The Helicopter Line!

October 19, 2025

The Helicopter Line is offering 15% off all scenic flights for Meridian Twizel Hard Labour Weekend participants. Simply mention Hard Labour Weekend and show your race bib at check-in to claim your discount. Valid: 24 October – 10 NovemberDiscount applies to adult seats only It’s the perfect opportunity to take in the stunning Southern Alps from above and make the most of your Hard Labour Weekend adventure. A huge thank you to The Helicopter Line for their generous support, helping our participants experience the Mackenzie in unforgettable style! Find out more about their scenic flight options...