New Zealanders are enthusiastic participants in Ironman events both locally and internationally. Aside from competing, Kiwis love to get out and cheer on their heroes like Hannah Berry, Kyle Smith and Hayden Wilde, and many locals volunteer at events year after year.
At Travel Insurance Brokers (TIB) we work closely with our partners to provide Kiwi triathletes with comprehensive insurance coverage while they compete internationally. TIB acts as a key intermediary, carefully assessing the specific insurance needs of each triathlete. Given the physically demanding and high-risk nature of triathlons, TIB ensures that athletes receive insurance tailored to their sport, covering everything from medical emergencies to race cancellations and gear protection.
Like Formula One and the Rugby 7s, there are annual Ironman events in stunning locations all over the globe, here are some of our favourites that attract participants from New Zealand:
Ironman New Zealand (Taupo): This is the home event for Kiwi triathletes and one of the most iconic in the world, having been held since 1985. It is celebrated for its stunning scenery and supportive community. Taupo regularly tops athlete satisfaction surveys for its overall experience and is a significant draw for both domestic and international competitors. The swim starts after a Maori waka has welcomed athletes to the water, followed by a relatively flat cycle leg amongst lush farm land, culminating in a run along the beautiful lakeshore of Taupo with Mount Ruapehu and other peaks made famous in the Lord of the Rings movies looming in the distance.
Locals from 10 to 80 get out and volunteer, and even at midnight there are still crowds of supporters cheering on the last remaining competitors as they run the final kilometres to finish. Aside from the stunning location, a key factor is the way the Taupo community welcomes and embraces all the athletes for the two weeks or more before the event when the town comes alive.
Ironman Australia (Port Macquarie): This event is particularly popular with New Zealanders due to its proximity and similar time zones. Ironman Australia in Port Macquarie is a legendary event that has been captivating triathlon enthusiasts for decades. Nestled along the stunning New South Wales coast, Port Macquarie offers a breath-taking backdrop for this iconic race. Participants begin their journey with a swim in the tranquil Hastings River then the real challenge begins as the bikes head over rolling hills with scenic ocean views. The marathon run winds through the charming streets of Port Macquarie, lined with enthusiastic locals cheering every step of the way.
What makes Ironman Australia special is its sense of community and history. As one of the longest-running Ironman events globally, it attracts seasoned competitors and first-timers alike. The warm hospitality of Port Macquarie’s residents creates a supportive and inspiring atmosphere, making this event as much about camaraderie as it is about competition.
Ironman Cairns Australia (Asia-Pacific Championship): Known as the "race in paradise," this event is part of the Asia-Pacific Championship and draws a considerable number of Kiwis due to its high-profile nature and accessibility. Situated in tropical North Queensland, this event combines the thrill of triathlon with the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. The swim takes place in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Coral Sea, setting the stage for an extraordinary day. The bike course is a highlight, stretching along the Captain Cook Highway, a route renowned for its coastal views and challenging terrain. The run then follows a looped course along the Cairns Esplanade.
Athletes are greeted by the sight of palm-fringed beaches and enthusiastic crowds, creating an electric atmosphere. A good contingent of Kiwi-expats normally turns out to cheer on the New Zealand athletes too.
Ironman 70.3 Maceió (Alagoas Brazil): Held in the vibrant state of Alagoas, Brazil, like Cairns this a tropical adventure for athletes seeking a mid-distance challenge. The event begins with a swim in the calm, turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a serene yet invigorating start. The bike course takes competitors along the scenic palm-lined coastline, then the run segment of Ironman also follows a route that hugs the coastline and provides stunning views of the ocean.
Crowds of passionate Brazilian supporters line the course, adding energy and excitement and a real party feel that is quite unique. Known for its festive atmosphere and impeccable organization, this event is perfect for athletes looking to combine their love of triathlon with a taste of Brazilian culture and hospitality. Staying on after the event to enjoy a vibrant South American holiday is a must!
Ironman France (Nice): Set against the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera, Ironman France in Nice is a race that exudes elegance and challenge in equal measure – making it one of the most popular events in competitor surveys. The swim takes place in the stunning waters of the Mediterranean Sea, but it is the bike course where this event truly stands out. Known for its demanding climbs and technical descents, it takes athletes through a number of hills and charming villages of the Alpes-Maritimes. The breath-taking scenery provides a welcome distraction from the course’s physical demands.
The marathon run unfolds along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a flat and fast route with gorgeous views of the sea. Thousands of spectators line the course, cheering with typical French enthusiasm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Ironman France is a race that tests your limits while offering a taste of the Riviera’s beauty and culture, making it a bucket-list event for triathletes around the world, and one that many Kiwis enjoy.
Ironman Kona (Hawaii, USA): As the Ironman World Championship, Kona is a prestigious event that attracts top New Zealand athletes who qualify. It is a dream destination for many in the global triathlon community. The race begins with a swim in the warm, turquoise waters of Kailua Bay, where athletes have to navigate ocean currents. The bike course is legendary, stretching across the barren lava fields of the Big Island. The combination of intense heat, swirling winds, and incredible views creates an unforgettable challenge.
The marathon run at Kona is equally demanding, taking participants along the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway under the blazing Hawaiian sun. The energy of the spectators and the spirit of Aloha provide much-needed motivation for athletes pushing their limits. Crossing the finish line at Kona is more than an achievement; it’s the ultimate badge of honour in the Ironman world.
These are just a few of the events that highlight the global reach of Ironman and the active participation of New Zealanders in triathlons worldwide. If you're a triathlete or adventure sports athlete looking to head abroad, then get in touch as we can help with all your travel insurance needs.
Our partners deliver the actual coverage with policies designed to meet the unique needs of sports enthusiasts. Their plans offer protection against race-related injuries, lost equipment, and unexpected travel disruptions, ensuring that athletes are covered both during training and competition. They also provide medical evacuation services and emergency healthcare, which are crucial for athletes competing in remote locations or foreign countries.
Through this collaboration, TIB and our partners streamline the process, offering expert advice and assistance to triathletes, guiding them through the policy selection and claims procedures. This partnership allows Kiwi triathletes to focus on their training and performance, knowing that they are covered with comprehensive insurance. Together, Travel Insurance Brokers and our partners ensure that athletes can compete around the globe with confidence, safety, and peace of mind.
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