ENVIRONMENTAL EFFORTS

The Paparoa Ultra is held in one of Aotearoa’s most spectacular landscapes – the Paparoa Range and the surrounding National Park. Protecting this taonga is central to our kaupapa. We are committed to running an event that not only minimises impact but also gives back to the environment, local communities and the Department of Conservation - all that make it possible.

SUPPORTING TE TAI POUTINI CONSERVATION

We are committed to giving back to Te Tai Poutini (West Coast) by directly supporting conservation initiatives that protect and restore its unique ecosystems. At least 20% of all event revenue will be donated to a conservation-focused organisation, programme, or project chosen in due course. By keeping this open, we can ensure funding goes where it will have the greatest impact, whether that’s predator control, native planting, habitat restoration, or community-led conservation. We will update our website and social media pages with who receives this donation.

OUR COMMITMENT

The Paparoa Ultra is guided by the Tiaki Promise and Leave No Trace principles.

Every detail of the event is designed to minimise waste and environmental disruption:

No single-use cups at aid stations – runners will carry their own reusable options.
Dry bags provided instead of drawstring race bags, offering practicality and longevity beyond race day.
Reusable shoe transponders for timing, eliminating electronic waste from single-use chips.
Temporary infrastructure only – all event signage and structures are erected without digging holes or hammering nails, leaving no trace once the event is complete.
Minimal rubbish – we aim for as close to zero waste as possible, with careful planning and participant cooperation.

SUPPORTING LOCAL

Environmental responsibility also means supporting the people who live and work on the Coast. Paparoa Ultra partners with local businesses wherever possible, from sourcing locally made medals and trophies to working with West Coast suppliers and sponsors. On race day, we host a pop-up market at the finish line, where local artists, craftspeople, and producers can showcase their work. The prizegiving features live music from local bands, ensuring the event gives back socially and culturally as well as environmentally.

ATHLETES FOR NATURE

From 2027, We’re proud to partner with Athletes for Nature to support their Sports Gear Revived programme.

This programme gives quality pre-loved sports gear a second life, providing schools and communities with increased accessibility to participate in physical activity.

If you have items to donate, please bring them along on Registration Day and look out for the Sports Gear Revived banner.

Suitable donations include; clean running shoes with good tread, t-shirts, singlets, long sleeves and crop tops, shorts, leggings, tracksuits, jackets, hoodies and puffer jackets. We also accept running vests in good condition. Please ensure these items are washed and in good condition.

Your donation helps create opportunities for the next generation of athletes while keeping good gear out of landfill.

Paparoa Ultra is a DOC concessionaire holder.