Back by popular demand - Hike for a Cure returns to Lake Hāwea Station, this time with two epic summits to conquer: Breast Peak and Breast Hill.
On Saturday, 28 March 2026, Hike for a Cure is back at Lake Hāwea Station - and this year, we're going bigger and bolder, with two iconic breasts: Breast Peak and Breast Hill.
The energy on the mountain this year was infectious, and in 2026 we’re taking it to the next level - double the hikers, double the summit and double the fun! First, conquer the original favourite: Breast Peak - a rewarding climb with sweeping 360° views. Then, for those ready to push further, we’ve added the tougher challenge: Breast Hill. With its steep ridgeline ascent and 1,500m of total elevation, this summit will test your limits and reward you with some of the most breathtaking views over Lake Hāwea, Mount Aspiring/Tititea, and the Southern Alps.
With exclusive access to Lake Hāwea Station’s breathtaking high-country trails, bring your friends and join us on the ultimate hike while raising vital funds for Breast Cancer Cure.
Hike Options
Choose from four out-and-back routes and turn back whenever you’re ready. Hike at your own pace and enjoy the spectacular views along the way - this event is about the journey, not racing to the finish line.
Base to Airstrip: 5km return
Base to Saddle: 10km return
Base to Breast Peak Summit: 20km return, ~1,000m elevation gain
Base to Breast Peak and Breast Hill (Double Summit): Approximately 25km return, ~1,500m elevation gain
Fitness Level: Moderate to good fitness required for summit routes.
Age: 18+
Safety: Please read the Health and Safety Agreement carefully.
Hike for a Cure - Lake Hāwea Station
Date:
Saturday, 28 March 2026
Time: Base Station Opens: 6:30am
Hike briefing: 7:30am.
Venue: Lake Hāwea Station, Gravel Road, 22 Timaru Creek Road
Lake Hāwea
Tickets: $199 incl. limited edition Hike for a Cure 2026 Cap
The Base Station
Hikers will gather at the Base Station on arrival to sign in and must sign out again before departing Lake Hāwea Station. The Base Station will be buzzing with incredible stalls including Emerson’s Tiny Pub, delicious offerings from Archery and Co, locally sourced beverages from Gibbston Valley Wines, and other goodies for purchase before and after your hike. Remember to collect your Hike for a Cure Cap here when you sign out!
The Track
This private, well-marked trail begins with a gentle 2.7km climb through farmland before steepening to reveal panoramic views of Lake Hāwea and surrounding peaks. The route offers steady ascents, recharge stations along the way, and a challenging final push to Breast Peak’s summit, rewarding you with sweeping 360° views.
Those attempting the Double Summit will summit Breast Peak first before returning to the saddle to begin the climb to Breast Hill, along the dramatic ridgeline past Pakituhi Hut (part of the Te Araroa Trail) before reaching a second summit at 1,578m. At any point, hikers can choose to turn back toward the base.
About Lake Hāwea Station
Lake Hāwea Station is a Carbon Zero, B-Corp certified farm in the heart of the Southern Alps. Renowned for its regenerative and sustainable farming practices, the Station is committed to tackling climate change and enhancing biodiversity while hosting extraordinary experiences such as Hike for a Cure and Dine For a Cure.
Helpful Information:
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 28 March 2026
Time: Base Station Opens: 6:30am Hike briefing: 7:30am.
Venue: Lake Hāwea Station, Gravel Road, 22 Timaru Creek Road Lake Hāwea
Leave No Trace
Please respect that this is private property and a working farm by adhering to the "leave no trace" principle. Everything you take on the hike must be brought back with you. Appropriate disposal units will be available at the base station.
Weather
This walk will go ahead rain or shine. In the case of extreme weather, Lake Hāwea Station will make a call as to the height that hikers can go for health and safety reasons.
Required Equipment
Standard hiking adventure supplies are required for this walk. All individuals and groups hiking to the summit are required to carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). If walking as a group only one PBL per group is required.
These are available for hire in Wanaka at: Macpac Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre and Southern Wild and in Queenstown from: Mobil Queenstown, Small Planet Sports, Macpac Frankton Queenstown Visitor Centre and Macpac Queenstown
Fitness
Assess your fitness - while you don’t need to be an athlete to complete this trek, it is a 5-9 hour hike. A reasonably active person with no medical conditions or injuries should be able to manage the hike.
Mobile Coverage
Please note, mobile phone service is patchy for the duration of the hike.
Thank you for your support:
Please note:
Photography:
Please note we have a photographer at the event taking photos and videos. We use these photos and videos on our website and social media to promote and celebrate our events. If you specifically do not wish for your image to be used, please let us know on the day.
Terms and Conditions:
Breast Cancer Cure and Lake Hāwea Station collectively clarify that this event is NOT a race, it is a charitable hike.
Join us and help fund research into a breast cancer CURE. Hike for a Cure is one of the many ways that we fund research into finding a cure for breast cancer.