Welcome to the True West Race Rules, where we navigate the dusty trails of fairness with a grin and a nod. While we strive for clarity, we understand that scrutinising every nook and cranny would turn our rulebook into a tome fit for Tolstoy. Therefore, we reserve the right to flex our judgment muscles, ensuring the spirit of competition remains untarnished. We're not here to play sheriff with the rulebook, but rather to uphold the lively essence of sporting camaraderie while keeping the playing field level. When in doubt, simply ask—we're more interested in enjoying the ride than playing rule enforcers.

TRUE WEST ADVENTURE RACE - OFFICIAL RULES - Haast 2025

Once teams have received course maps and notes, no team member may enter the event route until their race has officially begun.
12 & 48-hour teams must carry their assigned GPS tracker throughout the race and return it at the finish line. Lost units will incur a replacement fee.
All team members must wear their race tees throughout the event. Tees must be worn over the outer garment or piece of equipment (packs may be worn over tees).
Teams must start in their assigned Start Wave.
Team members must stay together and within sight of each other at all times, with no more than 50 meters separating the leading and trailing member.
Teams must carry all required individual and team gear throughout the event.
Teams cannot receive outside assistance or direction from supporters.
All team members must complete all stages to be officially ranked.
Teams must follow all instructions provided in the course maps, race notes, and briefings, particularly regarding road safety.
Life jackets (provided) must be worn correctly by all team members during kayaking sections.
A head torch with fresh batteries must be carried by each team member.
Some sections take place on open public roads. No roads will be closed for this event. Normal road rules apply at all times, and participants are responsible for their own safety.
In accordance with NZ law, bicycles must be equipped with a front (white) and rear (red) light when riding in the dark.
A 2-hour penalty will be applied for each missed checkpoint (CP). Teams that collect all CPs will be ranked above those who miss any.
GPS devices are not permitted. Bike computers are allowed only if they display speed, distance, and time.
Each team must carry a fully charged phone in a waterproof and durable case. Phones are for emergency use only. Teams may use phones for photography but not for navigation or mapping.
The entire team must enter and exit all Transition Areas (TAs) together.
Teams must follow all instructions from event staff, marshals, and course signage.
Teams and their supporters must respect the rights of landowners, residents, business owners, and the general public.
Supporters may not enter private land.
Use gates where available to pass through fences. Always leave gates as you find them. If in doubt, close the gate. If climbing a fence is necessary, do so at the hinge end.
Littering is strictly prohibited. If litter is found on the course, participants are encouraged to pick it up.
Use designated toilets and amenities whenever possible.
Any complaints regarding rule breaches must be submitted in writing to the Race Director within one hour of a team finishing. A panel will review the complaint and decide on appropriate actions or penalties. All decisions are final.
If a team member withdraws during the event, the team may continue unranked, subject to Race Director or Course Manager approval.
A withdrawing team must notify the nearest TA and report to the finish line.
Any instructions in the course notes stating "you must" are considered compulsory rules.
All team members must pass within 10 meters of each control flag.
Teams must strictly follow course notes, especially regarding road safety.
Team members cannot be changed during the event.
Any team found missing compulsory gear will receive a time penalty.
Teams must exit TAs through the designated timing area.
Any breaches of these rules will result in penalties determined by the Race Jury.