FAQs

1. What is a “Backyard Ultra”?

A Backyard Ultra is a unique endurance event that tests not just how far you can run — but how long you can keep going.

Runners complete a 6.706 km (4.167 mile) loop every hour, on the hour. When you finish a loop, you can rest, eat, or refuel — but you must be back on the start line when the next hour begins.

If you don’t complete the loop within the hour, or fail to start the next one, you’re out. The event continues until only one runner remains — the last person standing — who must complete one final loop alone to be declared the winner.

It’s not a race against others — it’s a race against yourself, time, and the clock.

The format rewards consistency, patience, and mental toughness rather than raw speed. Whether you run for a few loops or 50+, the Backyard Ultra is all about finding your limits — and then seeing if you can go one loop further.

2. How long is each loop / what’s the course?

Each loop is 6.706 kilometres (4.167 miles) and starts at the Hokitika beachfront, heading towards the Westland Milk factory until hitting a turn-point and looping back to the start. The terrain is compact trail, and there are a few very slight undulations – otherwise, this is one of the flattest backyard courses on offer in New Zealand!

3. What time does the event start / how many loops expected?

Start time is 9:00 AM on Saturday April 4, 2026. The event finishes when there is only 1 runner remaining!

4. What gear / support do I need?

Base Camp Setup

Each runner has a small area near the start/finish — known as the corral or base camp — where you can rest, eat, and reset between loops.
It’s best to bring:

• A tent, gazebo, or shelter to protect you from rain, wind, and sun.

• A camp chair, small table, or gear box to keep everything organised.

• Lighting for night-time (headlamps, lanterns, and spare batteries).

• Warm clothing and dry layers, especially if you’ll be running into the night.

• Charging options for watches, phones, or lights (portable power bank or car).

Nutrition and Hydration

You’ll need to eat and drink early and often — waiting until you’re hungry or thirsty can end your race.

Bring:

• Easily digestible fuel (gels, bananas, sandwiches, noodles, or potatoes).

• Electrolytes or hydration mixes to replace salts.

• A plan for hot drinks or soup overnight.

Many runners prepare a small snack after each lap and a bigger meal every 4–6 hours.

Running Gear

• Comfortable, durable shoes (some runners swap between pairs).

• Technical socks and plenty of spares to avoid blisters.

• Weather-appropriate layers — think waterproof jacket, cap, gloves, and thermal top.

• Head torch (plus backup and batteries).

• Watch or timer to track your pace each loop.

Support Crew (Optional but Recommended)

While you can run solo, a support crew makes a huge difference. They can:

• Prepare your food and drinks between loops.

• Keep track of your gear and timing.

• Help with motivation, warmth, and problem-solving (especially overnight).

If you don’t have a crew, The Wild West Backyard Ultra fosters a friendly community where runners and volunteers look out for each other.

5. What is the event village / support crew / spectators allowed?

The event village is the central hub of a Backyard Ultra — it’s where all the action happens between loops. Every hour, runners return here to refuel, rest, and reset before heading back out. It’s also where crews, volunteers, and spectators gather to cheer everyone on.

Here’s what you’ll usually find in the event village at the Wild West Backyard:

Start/Finish Corral

• The official start line where each loop begins on the hour.

• A “corral” area clearly marked — runners must be in this area when the bell or whistle sounds.

Runner Base Camp Area

• A section for each runner or team to set up their own small camp — tents, gazebos, or vehicles.

• Used for resting, refuelling, and gear changes between loops.

• Usually close to the start line so runners can move quickly between loops.

Food & Drink Zone

• Shared aid station with basics (water, electrolytes, soup, fruit, noodles, coffee).

• Access to boiling water, power outlets, and rubbish bins.

Facilities

• Toilets and portaloos.

• Water refill points.

• Lighting for night-time.

Spectator & Supporter Area

• Seating, music, and announcements to keep the atmosphere lively.

• A good spot for spectators to see runners start and finish each loop.

Medical & Safety Area

• A first-aid station / designated medic.

• Access for emergency vehicles if required.

• Warm area or shelter for runners who DNF or need assistance.

Media & Event HQ

• Timing desk or HQ tent for organisers and volunteers.

• Social media or photography area capturing the race.

• Noticeboard for results, loop counts, and updates.

6. What about weather and conditions on the West Coast?

Because we’re on the beachfront, we can easily become exposed to wind, rain, cold, etc. 

Contingency clothing is recommended. 

7. Accommodation / travel / parking?

Check out our page ‘ Discover Hokitika’ for more information - https://sites.google.com/view/the-wild-west-backyard-ultra/about/discover-hokitika?authuser=0

Event parking information to come. 

8. What is your refund / cancellation policy?

See our Refund Policy here - https://sites.google.com/view/the-wild-west-backyard-ultra/event-information/refund-policy?authuser=0

9. What happens if I drop out / how do I exit safely?

You must let the race organisers / race HQ or a volunteer know when you pull out of the race. This is really important, to ensure we don’t go looking for you!

10. Can I pace or use trekking poles / external assistance?

No pacers or artificial aids (including trekking poles) are allowed. 

11. Where will I find photography / social media / results?

A live lap count will be available during the race via our social media and website. Official results and race photos will be uploaded to the website and social media pages following the event. 

12. Can I qualify for the NZ team through this event? 

Yes this event is affiliated performances may count toward national teams / world championships. Find out more about national team selection requirements here - https://sites.google.com/view/the-wild-west-backyard-ultra/about/about-the-backyard-ultra/qualifying-for-the-nz-backyard-team?authuser=0