Tarawera Trail transforms woman's life (+video)

Two years ago Cherie Smith struggled to run 800m due to her weight and lack of fitness and was fed up with life in Rotorua.

But race forward to the present and the 40-year-old nurse has dropped 25kg, completed two marathons this year and is eagerly anticipating next weekend's 42km Tarawera Trail Marathon.

It will be the second time Smith has run one of New Zealand's most scenic and culturally rich marathons - an event that also includes a 50km trail and shorter 16km and 23km distances which participants can run or walk.

Smith, who has lived in Rotorua for eight years, said the Tarawera Trail had "transformed" her life and made her finally feel at home in the area.

"I set myself the goal because I wanted to be a good example to my children, and Tarawera offered such a brilliant challenge," she said.

"Two years ago when I started I was huffing and puffing trying to manage 800m and I didn't see a lot of positives in Rotorua.

"But this run has really changed my life. I had lived in Rotorua but not fully explored it and for the first time I really felt at home."

The race pays homage to the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, where 153 people were estimated to have died and much destruction caused to the area.

The spectacular route includes parts of Whakarewarewa Forest, a loop in the Buried Village and views of Lakes Tarawera and Rotomahana.

"It's like travelling through time. It's a touching and emotional trail. Last year I really thought about the people who sadly lost their lives," Smith said.

"I hadn't truly opened my eyes up to beauty in the area and it has made me see Rotorua in a whole new light.

"There is also a whole community as you are running along. People give you hugs and cheer you on. You really believe you can achieve anything after doing the race."

RARING TO GO: Rotorua's Cherie Smith will take part in her second Tarawera Trail Marathon next weekend. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER.

Smith finished last year's Tarawera Trail Marathon in just over 12 hours but said she was "much better prepared" for next Saturday's event.

The Squadrun runner, trained by Kerry Suter, trains up to six times a week, covering an average distance of up to 90km.

"It was incredibly hard going last year because there was a lot of mud and rain but I was still smiling all the way through it," she said.

"You never quite know if you'll finish so if I cross the line I will be very happy.

"I'm feeling in good shape and much more prepared. I can't wait to go."

So far 1473 participants have signed up across all four distances and Smith will be one of the 198 locals taking part.

START LINE: Tarawera Trail Marathon start at Te Puia last year. PHOTO/ FILE.

"I am definitely scared. When you say it out loud it is an intimidating thought," she said.

"But that is what life should be all about. Setting yourself challenges and goals.

"Two years ago I couldn't have even imagined doing this sort of thing but running and the Tarawera Trail has changed the way me and my family live our lives.

"I feel like I have a new lease of life and I can't wait to throw myself into other challenges."

Race entries close on Thursday, November 10. To enter or for more information visit www.taraweramarathon.co.nz. Watch Tarawera Trail video here: