Godzone resurrected

One of the nation’s iconic events is back on the radar, and Marlborough may be set to benefit.

It was announced last week that a new adventure racing charitable trust, fronted by Richie McCaw, will facilitate the return of One NZ Godzone, New Zealand's pre-eminent expedition adventure race.

The Trust [PACT] aim to put Godzone, which has twice been staged in Marlborough, back on the sporting calendar after a two-year hiatus. They plan to host the iconic eight-day event in the next 12 months.

Up to 100 teams of four would hike, bike, kayak and pack raft through remote regions for up to nine days, covering around 600km, in an ultimate test of navigation and survival.

The first Godzone began in Milford Sound in 2012, and the race became revered in New Zealand and internationally, showcasing the country’s wilderness and athletes.

However, in 2023 it all fell apart. Firstly, the planned 2024 event, to be hosted in Marlborough, was cancelled five months out, then, a day later, organisers pulled the plug on the event, at that stage for good.

Now, it is back on the sporting calendar.

A group of high-profile sportspeople and past Godzone competitors have instigated PACT, which will be a registered charitable entity. This includes former All Blacks legend McCaw, current New Zealand Rugby Players Association CEO Rob Nichol, world champion adventure racer Sophie Hart, One NZ GODZONE race director Adam Fairmaid, triathlete Michele Frey, AWS Legal lawyer and representative rugby coach Damien Pine and Southland adventure racers Chris Stewart and David (Ginge) Burnett.

Richie has competed in four Godzone chapters. He is front-footing PACT alongside Rob to see the event return to its glory days.

"One NZ Godzone represents the ultimate New Zealand adventure that, over a five-to eight-day period, absolutely tests you both mentally and physically,” says Richie.

“It's a gruelling and rewarding challenge – one of the toughest out there - where team dynamics are critical to everyone in your team crossing the finish line which is something I personally enjoy. Godzone has impacted my life in so many ways and continues to be an inspiration.”

Planning for the twelfth chapter of One NZ Godzone is well underway, with PACT engaging with high-profile sponsors, regional councils and the Department of Conservation to support the event delivery.

One athlete delighted to see Godzone revived is Marlborough adventure racer Jeremy McKenzie, who has been involved in four editions. In 2014, as part of the Absolute Wilderness team which raced in the Kaikoura-based event, he finished third.

“It is super exciting to have Godzone back on the race calendar,” he said.

“It has built into an iconic event with what it has created for so many people. [Godzone] is inspirational across young, old, male, female, including those who are out for an adventure or at the pointy end to win.

“The team dynamics, mental and physical requirements create true resilience and character which are essential for life.

“Hopefully we can see it one day back on the doorstep here in Marlborough where we can showcase world class scenery with, wine, seafood and Marlborough hospitality,” Jeremy added.