News & Updates

Athletes, supporters, and spectators will be set for a unique experience as the pinnacle event of the domestic winter season – the 2024 Mission Estate Winery New Zealand Cross Country & Relay Championships – will be hosted at the iconic Mission Estate Winery in Napier on Saturday-Sunday 3-4 August.

Following on from the successful hosting of the past two editions of championship at Spa Thermal Park in Taupō, the birthplace of New Zealand wine will provide a spectacular venue as the event returns to Hawke’s Bay for the first time in 20 years.

The Mission Estate – who are not only the event host but also the naming rights partner – is well versed in hosting major events and regularly stages leading concerts with superstar acts Rod Stewart and Robbie Williams among the star names to have performed at the world-class winery. Local club cross country races have also previously featured at Mission Estate, but this will be the first time a major cross country will be staged at the location.

The cross country course – over 1km and 2km laps – will be held on a large proportion of the land used for the hugely popular Mission Estate concerts.

Athletics NZ Competitions Manager Jason Cameron said: “We are massively excited that the iconic Mission Estate has agreed to come on board as naming rights partner and host to the 2024 New Zealand Cross Country and Relay Championships. The estate is known throughout New Zealand for its enormous contribution to the wine industry and capacity for staging hugely successful events.

“The 2024 championships will be like no other and provide a unique experience with award ceremonies, fundraising events and catering for athletes, supporters and spectators within the timeless elegance of the Mission estate property.”

Hawkes Bay Gisborne Athletics Chair Robert Strong said: “Hawkes Bay Gisborne Athletics is pleased to hold the 2024 Athletics New Zealand National Cross Country Championships & Relays. The Mission Estate will be a great location for athletes and supporters to enjoy. The twin cities of Napier and Hastings have plenty of things to do while you are here. So come and enjoy a great event then stay to partake in all the activities the area has to offer.”

Mission Estate CEO, Peter Holley said: “Our team are delighted to be partnering with Athletics New Zealand, and we are looking forward to hosting this outstanding national event.”

The event has been made possible with the generous support of the Napier and Hastings District Council Events Teams.