Run The Forest Supporter Guide 2026

How to cheer, where to go, and how to make someone’s day on the trails!
Run The Forest is not just a big day out for the runners and walkers.
It is also a big day for the partners, kids, parents, friends, workmates, clubs and support crews who show up with coffee, signs, warm jackets, loud voices and perfectly timed encouragement. If you are coming along to support someone this Saturday, here is how to make the most of it.

Your job is simple, bring the energy
There is something pretty special about seeing a familiar face out on course or hearing your name yelled near the finish line.

Your runner might tell you they are fine. They might act cool. They might say they do not need a cheer squad. Ignore that!

A well-timed cheer, a handmade sign, a high five, or someone yelling “you’re nearly there” can completely change their day. Bring the cowbell. Make the sign. Wear the silly outfit. Be the person they remember seeing when the legs were starting to question everyone’s life choices.

The best places to support
There are three distance at Run The Forest, so the best place to support will depend on which distance your person is doing.

Starship Foundation 21km Pohutu Geyser Trail (MAP)

1. ​Startline, Catch the nerves, the excitement, and the energy before they set off!
2. 18km to go, Waipa MTB Carpark , perfect spot for a cowbell and a 'Keep Going!' sign.
3. 9km to go, Mokopuna Track, They are nearly at the flat bit now, your signs should have some humour.
4. Finish Line, Nothing beats the feeling of seeing your athlete cross the finish! Bring noise, hugs, and maybe tissues too.

Rotorua Canopy Tours 10km Geothermal Traverse (MAP)

1. ​Startline, Catch the nerves, the excitement, and the energy before they set off!
2. 8km to go, 49 Sala Street, Bring some noise, they have a bit of a hill here.
3. 3km to go, Puarenga Park, They are on the flat bit now, your signs should have some humour.
4. Finish Line, Nothing beats the feeling of seeing your athlete cross the finish! Bring noise, hugs, and maybe tissues too.

Rotorua Canopy Tours 10km Geothermal Traverse (MAP)

1. ​Startline, This is best if you are on a push bike.  Vehicle Traffic will be delayed!
2. 3km to go, Puarenga Park, They are on the flat bit now, your signs should have some humour.
3. Finish Line, Nothing beats the feeling of seeing your athlete cross the finish! Bring noise, hugs, and maybe tissues too.

On-course support
The forest is a special place to support, but please make sure you are in a safe and sensible location. Follow marshal instructions at all times, keep clear of the course, and do not block trails, intersections or narrow sections.

Great supporter energy is encouraged. Accidentally becoming a course obstacle is not. If you are moving around the course, allow extra time. Roads, parking and access can be busy, and some areas may be affected by event operations. Walking or biking between nearby viewing points can be a great option if it suits your plan.

Finish line, Government Gardens
The finish line is where the magic happens. This is where the relief kicks in, the medals go on, the hugs happen, and someone who was questioning every life decision 20 minutes earlier suddenly starts talking about next year. If you only choose one place to support, make it the finish line. Arrive early, bring warm layers, grab a coffee if you can, and get ready to make some noise.
NOTE: Due to CBD bylaws dogs are not permitted in this area

What to bring
A good supporter kit makes the day much easier. Bring warm layers, water, snacks, a phone charger, comfortable shoes, and anything that helps you settle in and enjoy the day. A sign is highly encouraged.  The more personal, the better, google running supporter signs for inspiration.  

Supporter etiquette
We love loud support. We also love safe support.

Please keep these in mind:

• Follow all marshal and event crew instructions.
• Stay off the course unless you are crossing at an approved point. Do not follow on course.
• Do not stop runners for long chats or photos if they are still moving.
• Keep dogs under control if they are with you. 
• Be kind to volunteers, marshals, staff, other supporters and participants.
• Take your rubbish with you.
• Cheer for people you do not know. It makes the whole event better.

Make a day of it
Run The Forest is part run, part Rotorua winter weekend. Once your person has finished, stick around, soak up the finish line atmosphere, grab food or coffee, take the medal photo, and enjoy the fact that you supported someone through something pretty special.

Then go full Rotorua. Hot pools, brunch, a walk, a drink, a nap, whatever recovery looks like for your crew.

Final word for supporters
You matter more than you think. The cheer you give at the start, the sign they spot on course, the hug at the finish, the dry hoodie you remembered to bring, that is all part of the Run The Forest experience. So show up loud, show up warm, show up ready. The forest is calling, and your runner is going to need you.