Less than three months after hosting the 2024 IM 70.3 World Championships, Taupō will once again welcome hundreds of athletes and their supporters from around the world to the 41st edition of Ironman New Zealand.
The 2025 event, which also includes IM 70.3 New Zealand, takes place on Saturday 1 March with more than 2,000 registered athletes set to take part across both events.
Wayne Reardon, Race Director of IM New Zealand and IM 70.3 New Zealand, said the team was looking forward to welcoming athletes and their supporters, alongside the many volunteers, supporters and stakeholders, back to the event for another year.
“On behalf of our team and the Taupō community, I’m delighted to welcome athletes and their whānau to the 2025 IM New Zealand and IM 70.3 New Zealand,” said Reardon. “Taupō has a deep connection to this race, and every year we are inspired by the determination, passion, and camaraderie that make this event so special.
“Whether it’s your first Ironman or you’re returning to chase new goals, you’ll find a beautiful course, a supportive community, and an atmosphere like no other. We can’t wait to see you on the start line and celebrate your journey to the finish,” he said.
Taupō District Council Mayor David Trewavas added, “Hosting the Ironman events is always a highlight for our community. The energy and excitement that the athletes and their supporters bring to Taupō is unmatched. We are proud to showcase our beautiful town and provide a world-class experience for everyone involved.”
As the second oldest IM in the world, Ironman New Zealand has long been a bucket list race for triathletes from around the world and this year is no different, with internationals making up nearly half of the field and representing 50 countries.
Some of those making their way to Taupō from overseas include top professional triathletes Joceyln McCauley (USA), a two-time IM New Zealand champion; Joe Skipper (GBR), 2020 IM New Zealand champion; and Fenella Langridge (GBR), 2023 IM Western Australia champion.
They will be joined on the start line by New Zealand professionals Braden Currie, a two-time IM New Zealand champion; Mike Phillips, also a dual winner of IM New Zealand; Ben Hamilton, third in last year’s race; and Jack Moody, the 2022 IM 70.3 New Zealand champion.
Ironman New Zealand sees athletes take on a 3.8km swim starting and finishing on the shores of Lake Taupō, a 180km ride taking in the rural landscape surrounding Taupō, and a 42.2km run along the lakefront lined with supporters.
