Transport

You will need to arrive into Rotorua, in New Zealand’s North Island for Rider Registration on Saturday 17 April (strictly between 9am - 3pm). Your six day mountain bike journey will start and finish in Rotorua where you may choose to fly directly out from, unless you stay on to explore further.

Air New Zealand offer direct flights into New Zealand from many international airports around the world so travelling down under is easy!

Check out Air New Zealand to see your flight options. 

For the safe transfer of you and your bike gear between airports and accommodation in Rotorua, a list of ‘bike friendly’ taxi services for you to call and pre-book will be listed below soon.

If you are keen to sleep in a slightly more comfortable bed for the week, or are looking to explore further pre or post race, then hiring a campervan may be a good option for you! This package is now subject to availability - email pioneer@ironman.com to enquire.

If you choose to do some exploring pre or post event and need some wheels (other than your bike!) you can book a rental vehicle. Hertz, Budget, and Avis all operate out of Rotorua.  

Regulations for entry into New Zealand have recently changed for those who previously did not require a visa, and it’s possible you may now require a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you travel. This can easily be obtained online, but can take a couple of days to be approved, so it is best to get on to this as soon as possible.

See here for further details or to request a NZeTA.

Participants from non-visa waiver countries are required to present a letter of Invitation from IRONMAN as part of their visa application process when applying to enter New Zealand for this event. In order to receive a Letter of Invitation please email the below information to pioneer@ironman.com

Information required includes:

• Full Name

• Date of Birth

• Country of residence

• Passport number, issue date and expiry date

• Arrival and Departure details (date and times and where possible Flight numbers)  

For details on whether you require a Visa click here and for further information on visa waiver countries, the visa application process, as well as more useful information on Visas.

To ensure you have a completely positive experience in coming to New Zealand, here is a checklist to help you understand our arrival and departure requirements. We also want to keep New Zealand 100% pure by protecting our natural resources, plants and animals from the introduction of pests and diseases.