Having had two successful events in 2016 and 2017, it was decided to delay next year’s event until November 25-30.
It will feature a new six-day format. Riders will start and finish in Queenstown, while exploring the South Island’s remote back country in between.
That is a change from previous years, when the race started in Christchurch and finished in Queenstown.
The event will retain its two-person team format.
Race founder and Ironman Oceania managing director Dave Beeche is excited by the new course.
"The team has done an amazing job in creating a new course that will be as challenging as ever and with more single track to enjoy.
"There will be some incredible climbs that will see our riders finding character, for sure, with stunning views to take in along the way.
"Spending six days with your mate riding in the back country is a huge part of the experience, so we have stayed true to that ethos of the event. This is something to be shared, for sure."
Riders will have the opportunity to gain entry to the unofficial world championships of mountain bike stage racing in South Africa.
Beeche is expecting demand for entries — which open in November — to be high.
