Cycling Southland is proud to once again host the ILT New Zealand Criterium Championships on Saturday 17 January 2026, where national jerseys will be contested across all categories from Under 15 through to Elite Men and Women.
Following the success of this year’s event, organisers have confirmed a brand-new course for 2026, utilising Bainfield Road and Queens Drive. Riders will complete laps of a fast and flowing 2.1km circuit, turning on Queens Drive at the Gimblett Street intersection. With wide, open roads and generous viewing areas, the new layout is designed to produce high-speed, attacking racing throughout the afternoon.
The event is expected to attract strong fields, particularly in the Elite Men’s category, with the 69th SBS Bank Tour of Southland set to begin the very next day. Many riders will use the championships as a final hit-out ahead of the Tour, ensuring an even more competitive and exciting spectacle for spectators.
Race Headquarters will be based at the Waikiwi Rugby Club on Bainfield Road, where families can enjoy food trucks, entertainment, and excellent vantage points to view the racing as national titles are decided.
Cycling Southland President, Julian Ineson, said the new course and timing created the ideal combination for a premier national 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.”
Spectators will again enjoy close-up racing action at multiple points around the circuit, with the same course also used on Sunday morning to start the opening stage of the SBS Bank Tour of Southland.
Race times and category details for the 2026 ILT NZ Criterium Championships are available in the official schedule
