Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland Marathon

Sunday, November 1, 2026
Mostly Flat
Open Registration

Course Profile

Difficulty
Mostly Flat
Terrainroad
Elevation Gain170m
Elevation Loss180m

Scenic course with moderate hills. Runs across the Auckland Harbour Bridge with stunning harbor views. Net downhill profile.

Typical Weather

Temperature10°C - 18°C
Humiditymoderate

New Zealand spring weather. Mild and often pleasant but can be variable. Occasional wind, especially on the bridge.

Registration

Entry TypeOpen Registration
Typically HeldLast Sunday in October or first Sunday in November

Open registration with early bird pricing. No lottery required. New Zealand's largest marathon. Multiple distances available.

Official Website

What Makes This Race Special

  • 1
    Run across the Auckland Harbour Bridge
  • 2
    Stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour
  • 3
    Point-to-point course with net downhill
  • 4
    New Zealand's largest marathon event
  • 5
    Spring racing in the Southern Hemisphere

The Auckland Marathon offers a uniquely New Zealand experience, crossing the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge and showcasing the "City of Sails" from start to finish. With its spring timing and scenic course, Auckland is the premier marathon in New Zealand.

The Course

The point-to-point course starts on Auckland's North Shore and finishes in the city center, crossing the Harbour Bridge early and then winding through Auckland's suburbs and waterfront areas.

City of Sails

The course showcases Auckland's maritime character:

  • Devonport (Start) - Historic North Shore suburb
  • Auckland Harbour Bridge (miles 1-2) - The iconic crossing
  • Westhaven Marina (mile 3) - Yacht-filled harbor
  • Ponsonby (miles 5-7) - Trendy inner suburb
  • Victoria Park (mile 8) - Urban greenspace
  • Tamaki Drive (miles 15-22) - Scenic waterfront running
  • Mission Bay (miles 18-20) - Popular beach suburb
  • St Heliers (turnaround) - Eastern suburb
  • Quay Street (Finish) - Auckland's waterfront

The Bridge Crossing

Running across the Auckland Harbour Bridge is the race's signature moment. The climb to the bridge deck, the sweeping harbor views, and the descent into the city create an unforgettable opening to your marathon.

Why Auckland?

Auckland combines stunning natural beauty with urban sophistication. The marathon showcases both - from the dramatic bridge crossing to the scenic waterfront finish. For international runners, it's also a gateway to exploring New Zealand's incredible landscapes.

The October/November timing makes Auckland attractive for Northern Hemisphere runners seeking a Southern Hemisphere spring race.

Getting In

Auckland uses open registration:

  • Registration opens approximately 10 months before race day
  • No lottery or qualification required
  • Early bird pricing available
  • New Zealand's largest running event
  • Multiple distances including marathon, half marathon, and shorter races

Race Day Tips

  • The bridge is early - You'll tackle it while fresh
  • Bridge winds can be strong - Be prepared for exposure
  • Tamaki Drive is beautiful - Enjoy the harbor views
  • The course is net downhill - But don't ignore the climbs
  • Kiwi hospitality is warm - Expect friendly crowd support

Train for Auckland Marathon

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