Fiordland turned on a sparkling day for the 1350 competitors and their support crews that took part in this year's all women's Spring Challenge on Saturday (1st October).

This years event, based in Te Anau, saw teams of 3 traverse their way from Lake Te Anau's control gates to a finish line at Lake Manapouri's Pearl Harbour.

Teams choose, based on their skill level, either a 3, 6 or 9-hour competition.

Spring Challenge 2022. Photo: Image Central

Sections included rafting, mountain biking and hiking with the 9-hour competition also included a kayak section.

Spring Challenge spokesperson Dulkara Martig said the weather was incredible and the event a massive success.

"It almost felt like Fiji out there on Saturday. Manapouri was just glistening, beautifully clear. Really a beautiful start to summer", Martig said.

Martig said it was also super inspiring seeing the effect the event had on both competitors and their support crews.

There are a lot of women out there doing it after having had children or following tough times with physical or mental well being, she said.

"Seeing the flow on effects for the families of the women involved is one of the most inspiring things about the event."

Spring Challenge 2022. Photo: Image Central

This included little kids and their support crew, with their parents, absolutely stoked watching their mothers cross the line in the transition areas, Martig said.

Fiordland Business Association chairperson Nathan Benfell said it was great to see so many people in Fiordland for the weekend.

Te Anau restaurants and accommodation providers had all been busy, he said.

The iconic all female adventure race, now in it's 16th year, is according to organisers, the first and biggest single day race of it's type in the world.

The next Spring Challenge will be based in Oamaru, in September 2023. Entries open 7th October.