Southland is set to welcome some of New Zealand’s best road cyclists as the ILT New Zealand Criterium Championships return on Saturday 17 January 2026. Hosted by Cycling Southland, the event will see national titles up for grabs across all age categories, from Under 15 riders to Elite Men and Women.

Building on the success of the previous event, organisers have revealed a new course for 2026. The updated 2.1km loop takes riders along Bainfield Road and Queens Drive, with the turn at Gimblett Street designed to maintain pace and create space for bold race moves. The layout is expected to deliver fast, aggressive racing and excellent viewing opportunities for spectators.

A major drawcard this year is the event’s timing—just one day before the start of the 69th SBS Bank Tour of Southland. Many elite riders will use the criterium as their final tune-up, raising the level of competition and offering a preview of the tour ahead.

Race Headquarters will be set up at the Waikiwi Rugby Club on Bainfield Road. It will be a hub of activity on race day, with food trucks, family entertainment, and several ideal spots to watch the action. Cycling Southland President Julian Ineson said the changes made for an exciting new chapter for the event.

“We’re thrilled to bring the ILT NZ Criterium Championships back to Southland and to debut an exciting new circuit that offers superb racing and outstanding public viewing. With the SBS Bank Tour of Southland starting the following day, we expect a hugely competitive field and a fantastic weekend of cycling for our community.”

The same course will also be used the following morning as the start of Stage 1 of the SBS Bank Tour of Southland, making the weekend a double feature for local fans. Full race schedules and category details for the Criterium Championships are available in the official event guide.

Share this article
The link has been copied!