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Queenstown has been named as the host location of next year's GODZone adventure race.
Race director Warren Bates said today Chapter 6 of the race was expected to draw competitors from around the world.
"Queenstown is a captivating place for adventure with its spectacular mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, and fast moving rivers, and it is fast becoming one of the world's pre-eminent mountain bike locations," race director Warren Bates said.
"It is known as the Southern Hemisphere's premiere lake and alpine resort and is undoubtedly New Zealand's favorite adventure destination."
Race organisers have announced next year's host location earlier than in past due to significant interest in the adventure race that this year has attracted New Zealand Rugby Legend Richie McCaw.
This year's race sold out in two hours, and there had been a "huge" number of enquiries about where next year's race would be based.
"There is a real buzz about the event at the moment. It makes sense to get the destination out as soon as possible, giving teams plenty of preparation time to plan coming to GODZone next year," Mr Bates said.
Entries for the 2017 GODZone in Queenstown will open on July 1 and team spots will be strictly limited.
Bates said the Queenstown course, which would not be revealed until the event got underway, had been five years in the making.
" Ever since GODZone started we have been working on creating an amazing event and course to showcase our backyard. There is so much to see and do here, so many adventure activities to take on and the wilderness is on the town's doorstep."
This year's GODZone is being hosted in Kaiteriteri and the greater Tasman district from April 2 to April 9.
The 70 competing teams can be followed via GPS tracking online at the live GODZone website with 24 hour news updates, photos, video and commentary.
