Great Barrier Island Marathon (Wharf2Wharf)

New Zealand’s FRIENDLIEST MARATHON. Organised and run by volunteers this is a ‘real’ community event where locals join in or are out there encouraging and supporting the competitors. Past competitors comment on this almost more than the actual marathon.

The Great Barrier Island Wharf to Wharf Marathon is a unique event, half track and half road, ideal for serious athletes as well as for families. Mountain Bike, Run or Walk a Full Marathon or a Half Marathon.

The course begins at Port FitzRoy wharf and finishes at Tryphena wharf. Participants will experience rugged native bush, kauri, nikau, manuka, fern and some of the most unspoilt native forest left in New Zealand. Reaching the heights there are expansive views over white sandy beaches and across the ocean to an undisturbed horizon as well as green farmland, and picturesque settlements dotted around beautiful harbours.

The course follows the road overlooking the Port FitzRoy harbour and bays and down to the Kaiaraara Stream. Continuing up and down through rugged native bush, home to many of New Zealand’s native birdlife, the course reaches an elevation of 180 metres. Although arduous and challenging at times this event is a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the best scenery that Great Barrier Island has to offer.