The Tour of Southland, Australasia’s longest-running multi-stage cycling race, will mark its 70th edition in November, reaching a significant milestone since its inception in 1956. The upcoming race follows the 69th edition, which was postponed to January 2026 due to a major weather emergency in Southland and surrounding regions.

Julian Ineson, president of Cycling Southland, described the event’s longevity as a testament to the commitment of volunteers, sponsors, communities, riders, and supporters who have contributed to its success over the decades. “Reaching 70 editions is an incredible milestone and a testament to the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, communities, riders and supporters who have contributed to the tour over many decades,” he said.

Waine Harding, director of the SBS Bank Tour of Southland, said the team was eager to return to the traditional November schedule and deliver a celebration befitting the occasion. “Following the challenges that resulted in the 69th edition being rescheduled to January, we are excited to return to our traditional November timeslot and deliver a celebration worthy of this historic occasion,” Harding stated.

In recognition of the milestone, organisers plan to incorporate historical elements throughout the week-long event, highlighting the people and stories that have shaped the race since its early years. Although the event was not held in 1958, it has otherwise been a consistent fixture in the region. Tour legend Brian Fowler, who holds a record eight victories, is expected to return alongside other past champions who have helped establish the race as one of the premier cycling events in the southern hemisphere.

A series of public events will be held, including a “Legends on Tour” evening on October 30, where fans will have the opportunity to meet former champions and hear their first-hand accounts. Ineson emphasised the broader significance of the tour beyond competition, describing it as a celebration of community spirit and shared history. “It is about the people, the stories, and the communities that have helped make it one of New Zealand’s most iconic sporting events,” he said.

While the past will be honoured, organisers are also focused on maintaining the race’s competitive and challenging nature. A recent comprehensive review of the course has resulted in several changes aimed at testing riders more rigorously. Although specific route details will be announced in the coming months, competitors can expect demanding stages across some of Southland’s most renowned roads and landscapes.

Interest in the event is building, with inquiries from teams and riders nationally and internationally. Harding said this ongoing enthusiasm underlined the tour’s prestigious status. “There is significant excitement around the cycling community for this edition. The prestige of winning the 70th SBS Bank Tour of Southland is not lost on riders. We are seeing considerable interest from both domestic and international competitors who want the opportunity to be part of this historic event and compete for one of the most respected titles in Australasian cycling,” he noted.