AKAROA HILLTOP33
Hilltop33 Information
Date: Sunday 17 May 2026
Distance: 33KM Run
Start Time: 10:00am
Start Line: Hilltop, Christchurch-Akaroa Rd
Finish Line: Akaroa Domain, Akaroa
Race Briefing: 9:45am Start Line - Summit Road
Minimum Age: 16yr
Cut Off Times:
- 12:00pm at 10km mark
- 2:00pm at 22km mark
- 3:00pm at 26.5km mark
Prizes:
1st, 2nd, 3rd Women, Men Overall,
Timing Categories:
1st Female, 1st Male 16-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
Additional Info:
- There is no separate walk option in the Hilltop33 event. You can walk and run the course but please consider the cut off times.
- Due to Traffic Management restrictions we have cut offs at various points along the course (please see above)
- 4:00pm FULL COURSE CLOSURE
Enjoy Summit Road all the way from the Hilltop to Akaroa
Course Description
The Hilltop33 Run course is packed with incredible scenery the entire way. The course has been designed to allow for a point-to-point experience, making sure each step competitors take is on new ground and offers epic views at every turn.
The race starts at the Hilltop, the gateway spot to Banks Peninsula. The lush green hills surrounding the ancient volcano of Akaroa Harbour set the scene for what lies ahead - breathtaking sights for the entire 33km.
Runners head along Summit Road, which is aptly named as the road hugs the tops of the hills. Summit Road is a favourite for travellers to Akaroa and Banks Peninsula. For this day only the road has restricted access to all vehicles, allowing the chance for competitors to take in the spectacular 360 degrees views safely. The sealed road is undulating and travels around the rim of the ancient volcano, now known as Akaroa Harbour. At times the views are out over the South Pacific Ocean, and at other times the views are across the sparking waters of the harbour. The village of Akaroa comes into sight as competitors head around the crater rim, creating a wonderful 'marker' to aim for as the kilometres go by.
There are Aid Stations positioned at regular intervals, with the final Aid Station at the completion of Summit Road. The final 7km of the course is descending down into Akaroa Harbour via Long Bay Road. Each step down the hill brings runners closer to the sea-side Finish Line where supporters and a beautiful 'finishers medal' will be waiting.
Sealed Road 100%
Course Map
Elevation Profile
Aid Stations
Aid Stations will be at the following approximate distances in the Run Akaroa Hilltop33:
5.5km "HILLTOP Aid Station
10km "LITTLE AKALOA" Aid Station
15.5km "OKAINS" Aid Station
22.5km "LE BONS" Aid Station
26.5km "LONG BAY" Aid Station
All Aid Stations will have water, PURE Electrolyte Hydration, and a supply of fruit, lollies, chips, etc.
Each Aid Station is well stocked and Gluten Free options are available. Toilets will be available at each Aid Station. Women's period products are available.
HOW TO GET TO THE START LINE
Vehicle Drop Off
Competitors can easily be dropped off at the start line by private vehicle. The Hilltop start line is situated near the Hilltop Cafe. There is a drop off area on the side of the highway.
Drivers must follow our marshals instructions and keep the flow of vehicles moving. There is no parking at this venue. Competitors will be dropped off and the vehicle will need to exit the site immediately.
All competitors will need to be dropped off between 8:00am and 9:30am.
Bus Drop Off OPTION 1
You are able to catch a bus from central Christchurch city to your start line. Buses will transport you back to the city later in the day.
Bus Drop Off OPTION 2
If you are leaving your vehicle in Akaroa for the day you are able to catch a bus from Akaroa on the morning of the race.