Orienteering Wellington is hosting the annual NZ Orienteering Championships (‘the Nationals’), 10-13 April 2020 (Easter weekend). Entries are now open—go to events.orienteering.org.nz/nationals/.

The Nationals offer world-class orienteering in the coastal dunes and pine forests of the Manawatū and northern Horowhenua, and a sprint event around an intriguing new area in Palmerston North.

Friday 10 April—sprint. A fast event that challenges the orienteer to make snap decisions in a complex urban environment. Pit Park, Palmerston North.

Saturday 11 April—long-distance. Courses test participants’ endurance through tricky coastal pine forest and dune country. Parewanui, Scotts Ferry.

Sunday 12 April—middle-distance. A shorter course but the most technically demanding, requiring the utmost focus from the orienteer. Osgiliath NW, Waitarere.

Monday 13 April—team relay. A fun event that is run in teams. Whirokino, Waitarere.

Individual events serve as world ranking events and trials for the World Orienteering Champs, Junior World Orienteering Champs, and World University Orienteering Champs. However, each event will also offer a wide range of courses to challenge orienteers of any age and experience.

To find out more and enter, go to events.orienteering.org.nz/nationals/.