“If you want flat terrain – get on the water.” Wellington orienteer Dick Dinsdale summed up the 2026 New Zealand Orienteering Championships before a single control had been punched.

The Sprint at Rathkeale College was fast and technical, mixing open grounds with tight bush tracks to finish. Joseph Lynch continued his strong Oceania 2026 form to win the elite men’s race, just ahead of Felix Hunt, with Zefa Fa’avae third. Laura Robertson took out the elite women’s sprint, holding off Zara Stewart, with Amber Morrison close behind. Junior titles went to Jake McLellan and Georgia Lindroos, both showing composure under pressure.

The middle distance at Rewanui shifted the challenge to steep, complex terrain. Imogene Scott delivered a standout performance to win the elite women’s race just nine months after giving birth, narrowly ahead of Stewart, with Robertson third. Lynch dominated the elite men, opening a decisive margin over Hunt and Fa’avae. Rachel Baker and Thomas Potts claimed the junior titles, underlining emerging depth.

The long distance introduced a demanding new karst map, with sinkholes, rock detail, and relentless climb. Zefa Fa’avae was in his element and won the elite men by over three minutes from Lynch. Rachel Baker stepped up to win the elite women, while Jake McLellan and Phoebe Hunt had junior 20E victories.

In the final event Peninsula and Plains Orienteers (PAPO) had strong relay performances on the podium.
Across four days, the event showcased technical skill, endurance, and depth. Success relied on both physical strength and sharp decision-making. We thank Wairarapa, Wellington, Hutt Valley and Red Kiwi clubs for an excellent event.   

All results & maps are here