Auckland Marathon Becomes Fifth Event in the Runaway Marathon Series
Big news for Kiwi runners! The Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon has officially joined the Runaway Marathon Series, creating an expanded five-event circuit that spans the best running destinations across New Zealand and Australia.
The Auckland Marathon joins an impressive lineup alongside Sydney, Noosa, Queenstown, and Hawke’s Bay, giving runners the ultimate trans-Tasman running adventure.
The Complete 2026 Runaway Marathon Series
HOKA Sydney Half Marathon
- Date: Sunday, 3 May 2026
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- Website: runawaysydneyhalf.com.au
ASICS Runaway Hawke’s Bay Marathon
- Date: Saturday, 16 May 2026
- Location: Napier/Hastings, Hawke’s Bay
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 2.2km Kids Run
- Website: hawkesbaymarathon.co.nz
ASICS Runaway Noosa Marathon
- Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026
- Location: Noosa, Queensland, Australia
- Website: runawaynoosamarathon.com.au
Runaway Auckland Marathon
- Date: Sunday, 1 November 2026
- Location: Auckland (Devonport to Victoria Park)
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 11km Traverse, 5km Challenge, 2.2km Kids Marathon
- Website: aucklandmarathon.co.nz
NZ Sotheby’s Queenstown Marathon ASICS
- Date: Saturday, 14 November 2026
- Location: Queenstown, Otago
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 2.2km Kids Run
- Website: queenstown-marathon.co.nz
Why Auckland is the Perfect Addition
The Auckland Marathon brings serious credentials to the Runaway Series. Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, it’s New Zealand’s largest and most iconic running event, with over 17,000 participants taking to the streets each year.
The Iconic Harbour Bridge Crossing
What sets Auckland apart is the unforgettable experience of running across the Auckland Harbour Bridge—the only time of year runners can legally cross this landmark on foot. The 33-metre climb to the bridge’s summit rewards participants with sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour and city skyline.
A World-Class Course
The marathon and half marathon courses are IAAF and AIMS certified, meaning your times can qualify for major international events. The course begins in the historic seaside suburb of Devonport, with participants taking a sunrise ferry ride to the start line—a truly unique race experience.
From Devonport, runners travel through Takapuna and along the Northern Busway before crossing the Harbour Bridge. The second half takes in Westhaven Marina, the Viaduct Harbour, and Auckland’s stunning waterfront, finishing at Victoria Park where the famous “Party in the Park” awaits.
Runaway MVP: Complete All Five Events
With Auckland now part of the series, the Runaway MVP program has expanded. Complete all five events in the Runaway Marathon Series to earn the exclusive Runaway MVP medal, a stunning recognition of your trans-Tasman running achievements.
The series philosophy is simple: these aren’t just races, they’re destinations. Each event is designed around beautiful locations where the scenery, local hospitality, and food and wine make for unforgettable running holidays.
Event Details: Runaway Auckland Marathon 2026
| Distance | Start Location | Finish Location |
|---|---|---|
| Marathon (42.2km) | Devonport | Victoria Park |
| Half Marathon (21.1km) | Devonport | Victoria Park |
| 11km Traverse | North Shore | Victoria Park |
| 5km Challenge | Victoria Park | Victoria Park |
| Kids Marathon (2.2km) | Victoria Park | Victoria Park |
Key Features:
- Sunrise ferry ride to the start for marathon and half marathon runners
- Run across the Auckland Harbour Bridge
- IAAF/AIMS certified course (marathon and half)
- “Party in the Park” celebration at finish
- Wheelchair division available (racing wheelchairs)
Planning Your Runaway Series Calendar
For runners looking to tackle the full series in 2026, here’s how the calendar shapes up:
- May 3 – Sydney Half Marathon (Australia)
- May 16 – Hawke’s Bay Marathon (NZ)
- May 23 – Noosa Marathon (Australia)
- November 1 – Auckland Marathon (NZ)
- November 14 – Queenstown Marathon (NZ)
This gives you a solid block in May to hit three events, then a second opportunity in November to complete the series with Auckland and Queenstown back-to-back.
Registration Information
Entries for the 2026 Runaway Auckland Marathon will open soon. Given this is the 35th anniversary edition and the first year as part of the Runaway Series, expect high demand.