January 18–24, 2026 Organisers of the 69th SBS Bank Tour of Southland have once again demonstrated their adaptability, confirming a revised route for both the opening day and the final stage of the 2026 event.

Following significant damage to Queens Park caused by recent weather events, coupled with planned road works in the surrounding streets, the traditional circuit will not be available.

After extensive assessment and consultation, the Tour committee has confirmed that a combination of Bainfield Road and Queens Drive will form the alternative course for the Riverside Rentals Team Time Trial and the CS Roofing Southland street race as well the conclusion to the Ascot Park final stage.

Tour Director Waine Harding said the committee was determined to create a route that maintained the essence of the opening and closing stages.

“It was important to us that the Southland public still had the opportunity to experience the excitement of the Tour up close. This new circuit provides a fast, open course that teams will relish, while giving spectators the chance to watch the riders flying along both sides of Bainfield Road and Queens Drive. Like Queens Park, the multi-lap format will bring plenty of atmosphere and intensity.”

The committee’s priority was to ensure continuity for spectators and riders alike, preserving the spectacle that Southlanders look forward to each year.

The new course layout guarantees excellent vantage points and tight, fast racing that will challenge teams tactically and physically. To add to the exciting week of racing, Cycling Southland will also host the NZ Criterium Champs on a shortened circuit to the one being used for the Tour on Saturday 17th January.

To support the event, the SBS Bank Tour of Southland will base its day-one and last day operations at the Waikiwi Rugby Club, whose facilities will also host a range of family-friendly activities currently being planned.

“We’re extremely grateful to the Waikiwi Rugby Club for opening their clubrooms to us,” Julian Ineson, Cycling Southland president added.

“It means we can continue to deliver a top-class experience for riders while making it a fun and engaging day out for families.

” Further details, including activity schedules and maps of the revised circuit, will be released in the coming weeks.