Wellington Marathon

Wellington Marathon

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

Overview

The Wellington Marathon draws approximately 3,000 finishers on an urban road in Wellington, New Zealand. The course starts and finishes at the Cenotaph. Mostly flat with exposed windy sections along the coast.

Wellington Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Wellington Marathon 2027 race day

The next Wellington Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 27 June 2027 with a 8:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 30 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.

Wellington Marathon course route

The Wellington Marathon is a harbour loop starting and finishing at the Cenotaph, following the south coast around the Miramar Peninsula with harbour views throughout. The coastal flats are the easiest because they stay beside the water, while the exposed headland rises and windy stretches are the tougher defining challenge. Crowd support is strongest at the Cenotaph, along the south coast roads, and at organised viewing points around Miramar.

Wellington Marathon route map

Wellington Marathon course map and route

Official course map — view on race website

Wellington Marathon elevation profile

The Wellington Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 30 metres of climbing and 30 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Wellington Marathon is typically held on the fourth Sunday of June each year, placing it in New Zealand's autumn/early winter. Confirm exact dates and registration at www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz.

Wellington Marathon course video

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

Hobart Marathon 2026 🏃‍♂️ Snowy Mt Wellington Backdrop | 5K Start & Course Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Wellington Marathon elevation profile?
The Wellington Marathon has 30 metres of total climbing and 30 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
Where can I find the Wellington Marathon route map?
This page includes a Wellington Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. The official course map is published at www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz/the-course. Follows the south coast around the Miramar Peninsula with harbour views.
How long is the Wellington Marathon?
The Wellington Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Cenotaph.
What time does the Wellington Marathon start?
The 2027 Wellington Marathon starts at 8:30 am local time on Sunday, 27 June 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
What makes the Wellington Marathon unique?
Run in New Zealand's wind-swept capital, the Wellington Marathon traces the scenic harbour waterfront with sweeping views of Cook Strait and the Remutaka Range. The course hugs the coastline of Wellington Harbour, offering a picturesque urban marathon setting.
Is the Wellington Marathon course hilly?
The course follows the harbour edge and is largely flat along the waterfront sections, but Wellington's notorious hills make some inland stretches undulating. Wind is the defining challenge here — Wellington is regularly rated one of the windiest cities in the world, and sea breezes can significantly affect pace.
When is the Wellington Marathon held?
The Wellington Marathon is typically held on the fourth Sunday of June each year, placing it in New Zealand's autumn/early winter. Confirm exact dates and registration at www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz.
What is the weather like on race day at the Wellington Marathon?
June in Wellington is cool, with temperatures typically ranging from 8–14 °C at race start. Wind is the real variable — strong southerly gusts are common, so runners should plan with wind-resistant layers and adjust their pacing strategy accordingly.
Is the Wellington Marathon a good choice for international runners visiting New Zealand?
Absolutely. As the race in New Zealand's capital city, the Wellington Marathon pairs well with visits to Te Papa museum, the vibrant Cuba Quarter, and the wider Wellington waterfront. The event is welcoming to international participants and registration is open through the official race website.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Wellington.

Hawke's Bay Marathon
Rotorua Marathon
Karapiro Marathon

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