The inaugural Waitomo Trail Run has already signed up 1484 entrants.

Located in the ultimate playground in the Waitomo region, the course will weave runners and walkers through an underground and overground thoroughfare of karst-studded landscapes, native bush, vibrant working farms, tunnels, canyons and glowworms.

Waitomo Trail runners surrounded by towering rock formations leading up the staircase. Photo: Kurt Matthews Photography.

Race Organiser Paul Charteris, from NZ Trail Runs Ltd, says he and business partner, Tim Day, searched long and hard for a location that offers participants one of the most inspiring, adventurous and remarkable days of their lives.

'Following on from the Tarawera Ultra and Tarawera Trail Marathon, this is only the third event we have offered in nine years.

'We strive to offer life-changing, unforgettable events in stunning locations. We want people to come and discover the ‘hidden Waitomo' and to explore areas they wouldn't normally have the opportunity to discover.

'As organisers, we feel privileged to have this opportunity.”

There are four distance options in the Waitomo Trail Run including 6km, 11km, 22km and 33km, which pass through Department of Conservation reserves, as well as private farmland which can only be accessed on race day.

'The longest of the four events starts at Mangapohue Natural Bridge following the curves and crevices of the landscape to finish at the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre,” says Paul.

'The more curious and energetic participants of the 22 and 33km options are also challenged to tackle the ‘adventure options' available on the course.

The term ‘race' doesn't define what this event is about. Organisers want participants to take their time on the course and explore what Waitomo has to offer.

The adventure option on the 22 and 33km courses takes participants over towering rock faces, navigating through bush and over landscapes before descending the beautiful ‘Love Track'.

'If you change your mind, there is even a bailout option for the 33km event, allowing participants to veer off at ‘Frog Pond' directing to an earlier finish,” says Paul.

The event is open to all ages and abilities, offering a unique opportunity to get out and about with family and friends.

Taking advantage of school holiday timing, Matt Fraser from Whakatane has entered the 6km event with his wife Erin Beeler and daughter Lila, alongside friends Dafydd Malcolm and children Isabella and Alexander from Rotorua.

'We entered as soon as the event was announced,” says Matt.

'We love getting out and about amongst New Zealand's natural environment and there is no better way to share this than with family and friends.”

Waitomo operations director Gordon Hewston says a unique twilight glowworm experience will also be available to participants and supporters as well as special offers to experience the wonder of Waitomo – including walking tours and Black Water Rafting.

'The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are famous around the world and a beacon for international travelers.

'The Waitomo Trail Run is a great opportunity for New Zealand families to truly explore this unique environment and understand what makes it so special.”

The event, which is being held on Saturday, will also include a sports expo at the Waitomo Homestead during registration.

For further information and entry details go to www.waitomotrailrun.co.nz and www.facebook.com/waitomotrailrun