Auckland Marathon

Auckland Marathon course route

The Auckland Marathon is a point-to-point course from Devonport to Victoria Park that opens with harbour and skyline views before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge and dropping into downtown. The bridge climb is the clear crux on an otherwise moderate route, and support peaks on the bridge, around Viaduct Harbour, and at the city finish.

Auckland Marathon elevation profile

The Auckland Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 217 metres of climbing and 216 metres of descent, with a net climb of 1 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

Registration is available at aucklandmarathon.co.nz. Entry is first-come, first-served and the event typically sells out well in advance, particularly after the Harbour Bridge crossing gained international attention. Register early to secure your place.

Auckland Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon Course Preview - brought to you by GWM

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Auckland Marathon elevation profile?

The Auckland Marathon has 217 metres of total climbing and 216 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 1 metres of net climb from start to finish.

How long is the Auckland Marathon?

The Auckland Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. From Devonport to Victoria Park in the city centre, crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Is the Auckland Marathon flat?

Yes. The Auckland Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 217 metres of total climbing over 42.195 km (26.2 miles) — a profile that suits runners chasing personal bests or Boston qualifying times.

What time does the Auckland Marathon start?

The 2026 Auckland Marathon starts at 6:30 am local time on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.aucklandmarathon.co.nz/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Is the Auckland Marathon New Zealand's largest marathon?

Yes. The Auckland Marathon is New Zealand's biggest road marathon, regularly attracting around 7,000 marathon finishers plus tens of thousands of half marathon, 10 km, and fun run participants across the weekend.

Does the Auckland Marathon cross the Harbour Bridge?

Yes. Crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge is the defining moment of the race. This section is normally closed to pedestrians, so race day offers a rare chance to run across it with harbour views from the top.

When is the Auckland Marathon held?

The race is typically held on the first Sunday of November, which is New Zealand's late spring. Auckland in November offers warming temperatures (16–22 °C) and long daylight hours. Check aucklandmarathon.co.nz for the confirmed date.

What is the course terrain like at the Auckland Marathon?

The point-to-point course runs from the Devonport naval base on the North Shore, across the Harbour Bridge, and along the Waitematā waterfront to the finish in the CBD. Total climbing is around 217 metres — including the bridge climb — making it moderately challenging but very runnable.

How do I register for the Auckland Marathon?

Registration is available at aucklandmarathon.co.nz. Entry is first-come, first-served and the event typically sells out well in advance, particularly after the Harbour Bridge crossing gained international attention. Register early to secure your place.