The 2026 Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport returns to Mount Maunganui on Saturday, January 17, bringing a weekend of endurance sport, community spirit and summer celebration to Tauranga.
Held in a usually sun-drenched coastal setting, the annual festival celebrates active lifestyles, fitness and fun, and continues a proud tradition of multisport events in the region.
At its heart is the Loan Market Oceanside Tauranga Half Triathlon, widely regarded as Tauranga’s pinnacle sporting event and one of New Zealand’s longest-running triathlons.
The 2026 Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport promises a vibrant weekend of action against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.
First staged in 1990, the iconic Tauranga Half has become a fixture of the local summer.
In 2015, organisers expanded the programme to create a broader festival experience, adding events to cater for athletes of varying abilities.
These events now sit under the Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport banner, with the goal of getting “more people, more active, more often”.
The festival programme includes the Loan Market Oceanside Tauranga Half Triathlon (2km swim, 90km bike and 21.1km run); the iLine Construction AquaBike (2km swim and 90km bike); and the Waitoa Mount Festival Half Marathon (5km, 10.5km or 21km options).
While each event has its own identity, together they offer a diverse and exciting experience for both competitors and spectators. Whether entrants are chasing a personal best or taking part for the first time, there is something for everyone, organisers said.
Based at Pilot Bay, the festival promises a vibrant weekend of action against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.
Shorter 10.5km and 5km distances are available, making participation accessible for families and recreational runners. Photo / Supplied
The Waitoa Mount Festival Half Marathon 21.1km course runs along Marine Parade, Oceanbeach Rd and Maranui St before turning at Sunbrae Grove and looping around the base of Mauao to the finish.
Shorter 10.5km and 5km distances are also available, making it accessible for families and recreational runners.
Known for its flat and fast course and spectacular views, the Loan Market Oceanside Tauranga Half Triathlon can be entered by individuals or teams and draws athletes from across the country.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead, as significant road closures will be in place during the event. Closures include Salisbury Ave, The Mall, Marine Parade, Oceanbeach Rd and several surrounding streets at various times from Friday, January 16, through to Saturday evening.
Event road closure information for the 2026 Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport on Saturday, January 17. Image / Tauranga City Council
The Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road eastbound lanes between Domain Rd and the Paengaroa roundabout will also be closed from 5.30am to 1pm on January 17, with eastbound traffic diverted via Te Puke Highway. Westbound lanes will remain open.
Organisers encourage the community to support participants and enjoy the atmosphere as Mount Maunganui once again becomes the centre of multisport action.