Set on the banks of the beautiful Waikato River, the Kirikiriroa Marathon is a New Zealand Marathon unlike any other. Regardless of your ability, all are welcome to participate in the marathon. With donations from online registrations going to the Breast Cancer Research Trust and Achilles NZ, participants can rest easy knowing their money is going to a good cause. Let’s take a look at all the info you’ll need before participating.
While many races in New Zealand take place on the coast, the Kirikiriroa Marathon is located in the inland city of Hamilton. The Kirikiriroa Marathon takes its name from the Māori name for Hamilton: Kirikiriroa.
The route begins at the Hamilton Gardens and then proceeds along the river. Racers can expect to run through beautiful wooded areas along the river route. The course mainly follows the Waikato River along the Te Awa River Ride, and also goes near some farmland. The course’s terrain is flat, with a mix of pavers, wooden boardwalks, and concrete paths.
The Kirikiriroa Marathon offers two different events: a standard 42.2km solo marathon and a three-person team relay marathon. Participants in the solo marathon must complete the entire route in a single run or walk.
The team of three relay marathon is completed by a team in three legs that add up to a full 42.2km marathon. The first leg comprises the first 14.1km, with teammates changing at Hamilton Gardens. The second leg comprises the next 8.1km and, with teammates changing at Ann Street. The final leg comprises the final 20km to the finish line.
You don’t have to be an experienced runner to participate in the Kirikiriroa Marathon. In fact, walkers are welcome. Whether you’re walking, running, or a combination of the two, you’re encouraged to participate in the event.
Every marathon finisher, whether solo or part of a team, will receive a finisher’s medal to recognise their achievement.
You can register to enter the Kirikiriroa Marathon from the 1st of May until the 9th of June.
You can register here at the Kirikiriroa Marathon’s official website.
If you’re a regular marathon runner, you may be used to the type of rigorous training and preparation it takes to get ready for this type of event. If you’re not, there is an official Kirikiriroa Marathon training group that meets every Monday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. You can find the group on Facebook to stay updated on training events and more marathon information.
Both the solo marathon and the team of three relay marathon start at 8:00am on the 10th of June 2023. The event cut off time is 4:00pm, meaning that participants will have eight hours to complete the event.
Participants can pick up their race bibs at the Hamilton Gardens pavilion on the 9th of June from 3:30pm to 6:30pm, and on the 10th of June from 6:45am to 7:30am.
For health and safety reasons, participants are not permitted to wear headphones during the event.
A week after the completion of the race, the Kirikiriroa Marathon results will be made public.
The Kirikiriroa Marathon is an inclusive marathon aimed at anyone who wants to participate. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon veteran or a marathon newbie, you’re welcome to join. If you’re interested, register for the event and get training!
