Fun runs and walks in New Zealand
Fun runs in New Zealand are short events, usually 2 to 5 km, open to runners, walkers and families. NZRunning lists 27 upcoming fun runs and colour runs across 6 regions, with the next one on 11 Nov 2026 in Oamaru: Oamaru Fun Run & Duathlon Series: Race 1. Filter by region and month below, and check each organiser's site for prices and entry. Looking for a colour run? See colour runs in NZ.
All fun runs
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Fun runs by region
Auckland fun runs
4 fun runs listed in Auckland.
Waikato fun runs
5 fun runs listed in Waikato, in Cambridge, Hamilton, Paeroa and Taupō.
Taranaki fun runs
4 fun runs listed in Taranaki, in New Plymouth and Ōpunake.
Wellington fun runs
1 fun run listed in Wellington.
Canterbury fun runs
7 fun runs listed in Canterbury, in Christchurch, Kaiapoi and Timaru.
Otago fun runs
6 fun runs listed in Otago, in Oamaru.
Colour run NZ: colour runs near you
A colour run is a fun run where marshals dust you with coloured powder as you go past, so you finish a lot brighter than you started. They are untimed, short and popular with families, and walking the whole way is fine.
Wear something white you don't mind keeping colourful, old shoes and sunglasses, and bring a towel for the car seat. The powder washes out of most clothes but can stain.
Kid- and family-friendly fun runs
These fun runs have a kids' race or are set up for families. Younger children usually run with an adult, and the event page says what age each distance suits. See every event with a kids' race.
What to expect at your first fun run
How long is a fun run?
Most are 2 to 5 km, and many add a kids' race of 1 or 2 km. Each event card shows the distances on offer, and the Distance filter at the top of the page narrows the list.
Do I have to run the whole way?
No. Walking is normal at a fun run, and plenty of people walk the whole course. If you'd like to run all of it next time, the free Couch to 5K plan builds you up to 30 minutes of running in nine weeks.
What to wear and bring
Shoes you have already worn in, a layer you can tie round your waist, a water bottle, a hat and sunscreen. Prams and dogs are welcome at some events and not others, so check the event page before you bring either.
Registering, race packs and timing
Most fun runs take entries online, and some take them on the day too. Your race pack (a bib, sometimes a T-shirt) is usually collected the day before or that morning. Many fun runs are not timed; where they are, the chip is usually on your bib. The organiser's site has the details for each.
On the day
Arrive 30 to 45 minutes early to park, find the toilets and pick up your bib. If you plan to walk, start near the back and keep left so runners can pass. Enjoyed it? A 5K event is the natural next step.
Fun run questions
What is a fun run?
A short, relaxed community event, usually 2 to 6 km, where finishing matters more than your time. Walking is normal, and many fun runs are not timed.
How long is a fun run in NZ?
Most are 3 to 5 km, and many have a kids' option of 1 or 2 km. Each event card on this page shows the distances on offer.
Can I walk a fun run?
Yes. Most fun runs welcome walkers, and many are billed as a "fun run/walk". Check the event page for a cut-off time if you plan to walk the whole way.
When is fun run season in New Zealand?
Fun runs happen all year, but the busiest months are November and February to March.
What is a colour run and what should I wear?
A colour run is an untimed fun run where you get dusted with coloured powder along the course. Wear white, old shoes and sunglasses. The powder washes out of most clothes but can stain.
Are fun runs good for kids?
Yes. Look for an event with a kids' distance; younger children usually run with an adult. Events tagged Kids on NZRunning have one.
How much does a fun run cost?
It varies from event to event, and many offer family entries. We don't list prices, so check the organiser's site before you enter.
How do I find a fun run near me?
Use the Region and When filters at the top of this page, or open your city's events page.
Know a fun run we're missing?
Tell us about it and we'll add it. Ready for more than a fun run? Try a 5K, or start with the free Couch to 5K plan.