This weekend Whangamata's stunning and idyllic coastline won't be the only thing leaving people breathless.

The action packed Coromandel Homes Whangamata Multisport Challenge is back for its second year to push competitors both physically and mentally this Saturday.

The Whangamata Multisport Challenge takes place this Saturday. Photo: Supplied

The 40 kilometre race features an 8km paddle of the Whangamata Harbour, followed by a 9km coastal trail run before finishing up with a 23km mountain bike through Whangamata's Ridges Mountain Bike Park.

Race director Ryan Thompson says preparations have gone swimmingly ahead of the event and should the weather play ball next weekend they're expecting it to be one heck of a race.

'This is such a fun event and a great challenge for both first-timers and experienced multisport athletes,” he says.

'Last year's inaugural event went off completely without a hitch and was really well received by the competitors. In fact, a lot of them said that the stunning scenery added so much to their experiences.”

Prizes are given to the top three in each category, while hand carved trophies created by local Whangamata artist Riki Tipene will be awarded to the top male and female in the Individual Multisport race.

The 2014 event drew about 40 competitors who hailed from all across the North Island and even as far south as Christchurch.

Taking out the men's category was Christchurch's JJ Wilson, while Whakatane's Corrine Smit won the women's category. Both athletes have confirmed they'll return this year to defend their titles.

Ryan says the race also features a team category which is ideal for first-timers looking to attempt a new challenge.

'It's reasonably challenging to take on the course individually, but as a team it's really achievable. None of the distances are too long, you're probably not looking at much more than an hour for each leg.”

With 40kms of beautiful scenery to choose from, Ryan says the run section of the race is definitely his highlight.

'It's just stunning scenery and it's a section that people don't really know is there,” he explains.

'It's mostly costal and goes through some really remote white sand beaches that people usually don't go to. It's just really unique run, this is quite a special wee course.”

The Whangamata Multisport Challenge takes on Saturday, January 16. Entry costs $110 for individuals, $120 for teams, or $40 for individual legs (paddle, run or mountain bike).

For more information, race rules or to enter online visit: www.whangamataevents.co.nz

The Whangamata Multisport Challenge takes place this Saturday. Photo: Supplied