Largest field ever for Ironman
Competitors hit the water at the start of the 2025 Ironman in Taupō.
This year’s Ironman field will be the biggest ever for Taupō with nearly 3000 athletes registered for the Anzco Foods Ironman New Zealand and the Ironman 70.3 New Zealand.
The event on Saturday is also the first time it has been part of the Experience Oman Ironman Pro Series, serving as the official season opener and attracting one of the strongest professional fields ever assembled in Taupō.
Race director Wayne Reardon says the event has been part of Taupō’s identity for more than two decades.
“Every year we are inspired by the determination, passion, and camaraderie that unfolds on course.
“Whether you’re toeing the line for your first Ironman or returning to build on past performances, athletes will experience an incredible atmosphere, a supportive community, and a race that continues to be one of the most special anywhere in the world.”
Ironman New Zealand is the second‑oldest Ironman event in the world and a “bucket‑list race” for triathletes worldwide.
The 2026 event has athletes from 57 countries, with international competitors making up 43% of the field.
With Ironman New Zealand now part of the Pro Series, Taupō will host a line-up of professional talent, headlined by reigning Series champions Kat Matthews (GBR) and Kristian Blummenfelt (NOR).
Athletes are competing for a piece of the $USD1.7 million season-ending bonus prize pool, and professionals racing this weekend will compete for a share of a $US125,000.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister and MP for Taupō Louise Upston says the event’s continued growth in international athlete participation is driving visitation, supporting local businesses, and reinforcing New Zealand’s position as a premier destination for world class endurance sport.”
The event is supported by the Governments major Events Fund.
Taupō District Mayor John Funnell says the event is something the community genuinely looks forward to each year.
“It’s wonderful to be welcoming the biggest field in the event’s history to Taupō. From the volunteers and local businesses to the families cheering on the sidelines, there’s a real sense of pride in hosting this event. We love sharing our town with athletes from around the world and helping create an experience they’ll remember long after race day.”
Athletes take on a 3.8km swim, a 180km bike ride and a 42.2km run along the lakefront lined with supporters.
Those taking part in Ironman 70.3 New Zealand swim 1.9km, bike 90km and run 21.1km, finishing down the famous Ironman red carpet.
Professional races are broadcast live and for free on Ironman YouTube and ironman.com/proseries.
Facts
Nearly 3,000 registered athletes
Women make up 22% of the Ironman and 43% of the Ironman 70.3 field
The most represented age group category in the Ironman field is 30-34, and 25-29 in the Ironman 70.3 field
International competitors make up 43% of the Ironman field
Ironman New Zealand athletes represent 57 countries
The most represented nationalities outside of New Zealand are Australia, the United States, Great Britain, and Japan
The oldest Ironman competitor is 78 years old
The oldest Ironman 70.3 competitor is 77 years old