Ironman New Zealand Set to Make a Comeback in Taupō for the 2023 Edition

Ironman New Zealand is returning to Taupō on March 4, 2023, with 1,800 triathletes, almost half of which are international, gearing up to compete in the 39th edition of the iconic triathlon.

Ironman New Zealand Set to Make a Comeback in Taupō for the 2023 Edition
The 2023 Ironman New Zealand returns to Taupō on Saturday 4 March. Photo: Graeme Murray

After three years of disruptions, Ironman New Zealand will finally return to normalcy on Saturday, 4th March. This year, 1,800 triathletes from across Aotearoa and the world will be taking part in the Ironman New Zealand and Ironman 70.3 New Zealand races. Nearly half of the Ironman New Zealand field, 49%, is comprised of international competitors hailing from 54 different countries.

While the event will welcome new faces, 12-time Ironman New Zealand champion Cameron Brown will make his 25th start at the event, competing for the last time as a professional.

What they are saying: Wayne Reardon, Race Director of Ironman New Zealand and Ironman 70.3 New Zealand, expressed his excitement about the event’s return to normalcy, adding that the event remains a bucket-list triathlon for athletes from all over the world.

Ironman New Zealand features a 3.8km swim in Lake Taupō, a 180km bike through surrounding countryside, and a 42.2km run along the lakefront. Photo: Korupt Vision

The Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas acknowledged the disruptions caused by the pandemic and expressed his enthusiasm to welcome back athletes and supporters to Taupō for the 39th edition of Nutri-Grain Ironman New Zealand. He also acknowledged the legendary Cameron Brown, who has been a great ambassador for the sport of endurance triathlons in Taupō and New Zealand.

More on Ironman NZ: Ironman New Zealand is a grueling triathlon, which includes a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike ride, and 42.2 km run, all taking place around the scenic shores of Lake Taupō.

Meanwhile, Ironman 70.3 athletes will swim 1.9 km, bike 90 km, and run 21.1 km. The 2023 event will also feature a Kids Fun Run, where children aged 5-13 years old can run 750 m, 1,400 m, or 2,000 m at Tongariro North Domain, Taupō, and finish down the iconic Ironman finish chute.