Challenge Wānaka: Our Commitment to Sustainability
Set against the stunning backdrop of Wānaka, New Zealand, Challenge Wānaka is more than just the world’s most scenic triathlon—it’s an event built on a deep commitment to sustainability. Environmental protection is woven into every aspect of our planning and delivery, as we strive to lead the way in responsible, low-impact event management.
We’re proud to be recognised as the Challenge Family 2024 Most Eco-Friendly Race—a reflection of our ongoing efforts to protect the incredible lakes, mountains, and ecosystems that make Wānaka so special.
Our Sustainability Vision
As kaitiaki (guardians) of this incredible landscape, we work closely with local stakeholders to ensure Challenge Wānaka aligns with the environmental values of our community. Our Sustainability and Waste Management Policy guides our continuous improvement and helps us foster strong partnerships with local waste minimisation providers.
We are committed to delivering a zero-waste event by 2030, reducing carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption while ensuring no adverse environmental impact.
By 2026, we aim to be completely single-use cup free, and we need your help to get there.
Key Sustainability Initiatives
-
Eliminating single-use products
-
Partnering with local suppliers
-
Reducing waste through recycling & composting
-
Engaging the community in conservation efforts
How You Can Help
Every athlete, volunteer, and supporter plays a part in protecting this unique environment. Here’s how you can contribute:
💧 Bring a hydration vessel
The bike course features a bottle exchange, and the run course has fast-flow refill stations for soft flasks, CamelBaks, or collapsible cups. Single-use cups are being phased out.
🚯 Dispose of waste responsibly
Littering on course will result in disqualification. Please use the bins provided at drop zones near aid stations to help protect our trails and roadsides.
🌱 Offset your travel emissions
Support local reforestation by purchasing a Te Kākano Native Tree to offset your travel.
🌊 Protect our waterways
Wetsuit wash stations will be available at transition before and after your race. Please use them to help prevent the spread of Didymo. At the expo, learn more about the important mahi of Wai Wānaka and the Otago Regional Council’s Check, Clean, Dry team.
☕ Bring your own coffee cup & food container
Disposable coffee cups cannot be recycled and go directly to landfill. A limited cup library will be available, and freshwater stations will be onsite to refill your own drink bottles.
♻️ Sort your waste correctly
Use the clearly labelled bins for recycling, compost, and landfill. If you’re not sure—ask one of our friendly volunteers.
📱 Go paperless
All race information is available online and through our app. Volunteers will be on hand throughout the expo and the course to help with anything you need—no paper required.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Challenge Wānaka is more than a race—it’s a movement toward sustainable sport and community connection. With your support, we can protect this stunning environment for future generations and set a new standard for low-impact endurance events.
Thank you for racing with us and for championing the planet.