Old Ghost Ultra
The Old Ghost Ultra is a relatively new Ultra staring in 2016, based on the west coast of the South Island. The course follows The Old Ghost Road in a north to south direction (starting at the Seddonville end of the trail and finishing at Lyell).

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Reason
This has been on my list for a couple of years now, however as it's only a month or so out from Tarawera Ultra, timing hasn't fitted in with doing it.  Photos I've seen of the course show some amazing scneray which just really peaks my interest.

Kepler Challenge
The Kepler Challenge is probably one of the more saught after Ultra races in NZ,  running through the mountains of Te Anau.  This event is usually sold out with minutes (if not seconds) from opening and due to it's increasing popularity, they have decided to move it's entry to a ballot system.
 

Reason
Very Saught after event entry, epic course & beautiful scenary,  and while I have technically done the race, I was unable to do the offical course due to flooding and the route had to be diverted.

Abel Tasman Coastal Classic
Trail Run from Awaroa to Marahau along the renowned Abel Tasman National Park.

 

Reason

Abel Tasman is one of the most scenic places in the South Island, with wonderful views of the bush and many bays, it would be hard not to want to run this.  I know a number of people who have run this and all have said it's a must do.

Motatapu Ultra Run
The iconic Motatapu Off-Road Sporting Event is held annually in March in Queenstown and Wanaka, traversing Motatapu, Soho and Glencoe stations.  Known for its challenging-yet achievable course, the event snakes its way through stunning high country terrain only accessible to the public one weekend a year for the Motatapu event, making it even more unique.
 

Reason
As per the description above (taken from their Motatapu website), it's through high country terraing which is only accessible to the public one weekend a year,  it's a challenging course, and in part of my favourite part of New Zealand

UTMB CCC
The start line in the center of Courmayeur overflows with an atmosphere that only Italians know how to create. After the first kilometers, you will quickly climb to 2500m of altitude to enjoy an exceptional landscape, facing the Mont-Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses. The path to the Grand col Ferret invites you to cross into Switzerland, where you will enjoy the incomparable welcome of the volunteers of La Fouly, Champex and Trient. Once across the border in France, discover the authenticity of Vallorcine, before climbing up to Vallons des Chezerys, a true corner of paradise with a magnificent view over the Mont-Blanc chain. It is then time to push through and receive a hero's welcome across the finish line in the heart of Chamonix.

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Reason
The CCC has grown from being the "little sister of the UTMB" to becoming one of the most prestigious races in the world.