The Story Behind Thymed Events NZ
I founded Thymed Events NZ to bring something different to the New Zealand running scene, something with heart. After years of chasing endurance challenges across Aotearoa, I wanted to create events that felt real. Rugged but inclusive. Locally grounded but globally inspired. Events where purpose matters as much as pace.
Whether it’s a school-friendly 5K or a 250-mile mountain ultra, every event we design is built with community, challenge and a deep love for the New Zealand landscape.
We don’t do generic. We do meaningful.
If you believe in the power of movement, connection and a good dose of Type-2 fun, you’re in the right place.
Tom Heath, Creator of Thymed Events
2026 Events
Set against the stunning backdrop of Central Otago’s historic gold mining town of Clyde, the Clyde Classic is a community-first running event with heart.
Run or walk 5km, 10km, or the Half Marathon as you wind through the iconic old town, cross the impressive Contact Energy Clyde Dam, and follow the picturesque trails along the mighty Clutha River.
But it’s not just about the finish line. It’s about the scenery, the school spirit, and the high-fives from locals along the way. With 25% of entrance fees going straight back to Clyde schools, every step does some good.
Fast, runnable trail racing around the Upper Clutha River and Lake Wanaka
Ultra Wanaka is built to showcase one of the most stunning places on Earth. The courses follow well formed public tracks through the Upper Clutha River and along the Lake Wanaka shoreline, offering long runnable sections and uninterrupted rhythm from start to finish.
With 11.5 km, 21 km and 50 km distances, the event is built to be both accessible and competitive.
Whether you’re stepping into ultra distance for the first time or lining up with years of experience, Ultra Wanaka is designed to let you focus on the run and nothing else
Redefine your limits at the Carousel Backyard Ultra, the ultimate test of endurance, resilience, and mental grit.
Set in Alexandra, Central Otago, the Carousel Backyard Ultra is a last-runner-standing endurance event where runners complete a 6.7km loop every hour on the hour — until only one remains. It’s as much about community as it is competition, with runners of all abilities pushing boundaries together, lap by lap.
With a fast, flowing course, laid-back base camp atmosphere, and Central Otago views to keep your spirits high, Carousel is where mental toughness meets mateship.
Come for one loop. Stay as long as you can.
We're Looking for Our Next Major Partner
We’re growing fast and looking for bold brands to help take these events to the next level.
Whether it’s title sponsorship, distance naming rights, or long-term collaboration, let’s talk.
Click here to become our next Sponsor
Up and coming Events
The Otago 250
“Running teaches you what modern life hides, the person you could become is waiting beyond the comfort you keep choosing”
We’re brewing a truly epic challenge, a 250 mile mountain ultra through the stunning heart of Otago. Think big climbs, remote trails and a course that links some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
This isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s not going to be easy. Pain is part of the process. So climb the hill, step into the pain cave and face what’s in there. That’s where you grow and that’s why you’re here.
Coming 2027
