Leg Three of the Rotorua Ekiden traverses the northern edge of Lake Rotorua. It is the most scenic leg by far, but also arguably, the toughest. If you are up to the challenge, you will find this the most rewarding leg of the event.
It begins with 3km of flat along Hamurana Road, hugging the lakeside and with beautiful views across the lake throughout.
The road turns inland around the 4km mark for a challenging section of hills cuts through native bush. The crest is just past 5.6km and from there it is downhill or flat all the way to the changeover point with most of the final 2km back on the lakeside.
IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR CHANGEOVER POINTS
It is your responsibility to take the upmost care of yourself and those around you. While the changeover points are a lot of fun, you must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Team drivers MUST enter, park and exit the changeover vicinity slowly and safely. Concentrate on the road and those around you, not the event.
- Team members, watch out for other cars when you exit or enter your vehicle – you are not bulletproof!
| Leg | Distance | Locations | Terrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leg 1 | 7.50 | Novotel Rotorua Lakeside to Ngongotaha Domain | Flat |
| Leg 2 | 7.88 | Ngongotaha Domain to Hamurana | Rolling hills |
| Leg 3 | 8.43 | Hamurana to Marama Resort | Long flats, some steep hills |
| Leg 4 | 9.27 | Marama Resort to Airport | Long flats, some hills |
| Leg 5 | 3.24 | Airport to Puketawhero Park | Flat |
| Leg 6 | 5.88 | Puketawhero Park to Rotorua Village Green | Flat |
