Bluff, New Zealand: Russ Cook, known as “Hardest Geezer,” has embarked on his latest endurance challenge—running the entire length of New Zealand. The 27-year-old from Worthing, West Sussex, gained global recognition after completing an epic 352-day run across Africa in April last year.
Now, Cook is tackling the 1,864-mile (3,000km) Te Araroa Trail, which will see him complete 60 ultramarathons while navigating mountains, forests, coastlines, and cities. He began his journey at Stirling Point in Bluff, the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, and aims to reach Cape Rēinga in Northland in approximately 60 days.
Cook expects to climb the equivalent of 10 Mount Everests in elevation over the next 10 weeks. Along the way, he will also take on thrill-seeking activities, including a bungee jump off Auckland Harbour Bridge, a canyon swing in Queenstown, and a skydive in Abel Tasman.
Speaking about his new challenge, Cook said he was excited to be back on the road again, adding that his experience running across Africa had made him more aware of the risks involved.
Day 0. Landed, welcomed, toured.
Only one thing left to do, run.
60 back to back ultras, a shed load of mountains, one continuous trail. Let’s have it🇳🇿 pic.twitter.com/KlwEwTvyPM
— Russ Cook (@hardestgeezer) March 11, 2025
Russ said that personal growth often happens in uncomfortable moments, where uncertainty exists, but pushing forward leads to learning and achievement.
Cook’s previous record-breaking Africa challenge saw him run 10,190 miles (16,400km) from South Africa to Tunisia, raising over £1 million for charity despite facing visa complications, health scares, geopolitical challenges, and even an armed robbery.
The ultramarathon runner is determined to live adventurously for as long as his body permits, stating that when he gets older and his body slows down, he expects to continue where he left off.
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