Takbo.ph Around the World: Running in New Zealand

Our runner friend, Carlo Serrano, aka hydraice back then in Takbo.ph Forum, who is now based on New Zealand shares some marathons he joined. He wrote some some tips and event highlights so you can remember them when you plan to travel and join these runs in New Zealand.

Auckland Marathon

The ASB Auckland Marathon is New Zealand’s biggest road race in New Zealand’s biggest city.

The first half of the course will be full of rolling hills, and it will culminate with running the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Gradual ascent, but if you’re not used to hills (like myself), you may have to walk this one. For the remainder of the course it’s flat all the way until the finish. You will be treated to views of the Auckland Sky Tower, as well as the Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands.

The ASB Auckland Marathon 2016 will be in October 30, 2016.

Hawke’s Bay International Marathon

This is a new marathon and the first edition was done just this May 2016. This is also called the Air New Zealand Marathon.

Hawke’s Bay International Marathon sponsored by the country’s national carrier, Air New Zealand. Set in the gorgeous countryside of Hawke’s Bay, the purely flat course will take you to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries, as well as through some lush greens, peaceful trails, and scenic backdrops.

The course also provides a preview of Cape Kidnappers around halfway, and it is highly suggested you go there when you’re relaxed. At the finish line they will treat you to wine, since Hawke’s Bay is considered the wine capital of the country.

Air New Zealand Hawke’s Bay International Marathon 2017 will be on May 13, 2017.

Queenstown International Marathon

Queenstown International Marathon is another international running festival sponsored by Air New Zealand.

Queenstown International Marathon started last n October 2015. Although the course is marketed as “flat out beautiful”, don’t be deceived – there will be killer hills to attack along the way. Don’t expect a personal record (PR) here because you will be FORCED to stop and admire the sights along the way, such as Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, Shotover River/Shotover Bridge, The Remarkables mountain ranges, and Lake Wakatipu. By far, this is the MOST SCENIC course I’ve tackled in New Zealand, and any avid runner in New Zealand must run this at least once.

Queenstown International Marathon 2016 will be on November 19, 2016.

Christchurch International Marathon

Christchurch International Marathon is the South Island’s favourite foot race. From their website, “Inspired by the 1974 Commonwealth Games marathon, the Christchurch Airport Marathon event is renowned as one of the fastest courses in the world.”

Though Christchurch has been battered by earthquakes in recent years, the flat marathon course will take you out and about the garden city of Christchurch. The route also includes iconic landmarks, and will pass through the suburbs. Even though the city is still in repair, you can feel the vibe of its cheerful residents, making the run all the more pleasant.

Christchurch International Marathon 2017 will be on June 4, 2017.

Carlo also wrote this article Choosing a place to run which will take you to different roads you will encounter for running and he also share some tips in looking for a running route here in Manila.

This post is part the Takbo.ph around the world articles that feature Filipinos running anywhere in the globe. You don’t have to be fast or famous to get featured. Let us connect and celebrate running! Send us a message via Takbo.ph Facebook Page.

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