The race
About this course
This event offers a unique opportunity to traverse the scenic landscapes reminiscent of the Shire, featuring rolling hills and picturesque views of the Waikato countryside. The course incorporates a variety of terrains, including grassy knolls, meandering trails, and gentle hills, providing an engaging experience for both seasoned runners and newcomers.
Participants will have the chance to explore iconic locations from the renowned trilogies, including the charming village of Hobbiton and the notable Gandalf’s Cutting. The route also leads past the Sackville Orchard and Bag End, offering a blend of natural beauty and cinematic history. Scenic highlights include crossing tranquil streams and enjoying views of lush farmland dotted with trees.
The atmosphere is enriched by community involvement, as local residents often participate in or support the event, enhancing the festive spirit. Runners may also find opportunities for brief stops at notable landmarks, such as The Green Dragon Inn, before completing their journey across from The Shire’s Rest. This event combines the thrill of running with a deep connection to the beloved stories and landscapes that have captivated fans worldwide.
Pick your race
Distances
Halfling Marathon 21.1K
21.1km
Eleventy-first 11.1K
What to expect
Race day conditions
Terrain and altitude come from the course. Weather is a ten-year average for this date, not a forecast.
Weather data by Open-Meteo(opens in a new tab).
The course
Race route
Interactive Strava map with elevation profile and GPX data.
This map is based on a past edition of the event. The route for the upcoming edition may be different — check the official website.
Getting there
Event location
501 Buckland Road, Matamata 3472, New ZealandGet directions(opens in a new tab)
From runners
What runners wish they’d known
Event details and map location come from public information on the official event website(opens in a new tab). If a listing looks out of date, or you need exact start lines and course maps, check the official source or email [email protected].
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Questions about this race?
Ask the NZ Running community about the course, parking, and what race day is like at Middle-earth Halfling Marathon™.