The Barfoot & Thompson Runaway Auckland Marathon is on Sunday 31 October 2027. It is New Zealand's biggest marathon event, with five distances from 5 km to the full marathon. Full marathon runners take a sunrise ferry to the start and cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, a once-a-year chance to run over it. More than 18,500 people registered for the 35th edition in 2026.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- Sunday 31 October 2027
- Where
- Across the Harbour Bridge to the Quay Street waterfront, Auckland
- Distances
- Five options from 5 km to marathon, including 11 km and half marathon
- Included
- Event hat for 11 km, half and full marathon entries
- Since
- 1992
- Who
- Walk, run, dress up or fundraise; solo or in teams
What it is
The Auckland Marathon has been part of the city’s calendar since 1992, and it is now New Zealand’s biggest marathon event and one of the most scenic city marathons anywhere. The 2027 race, the Barfoot & Thompson Runaway Auckland Marathon presented by ASICS, is on Sunday 31 October 2027. In 2026, its 35th year, a record of more than 18,500 people registered.
What to expect
The highlight is the Auckland Harbour Bridge: as you climb, the Waitematā Harbour opens below and the city skyline stretches ahead, a view runners get once a year. Full marathon runners start with a sunrise ferry ride across the harbour. The race then runs along the sparkling harbour and the Quay Street waterfront to a city finish.
There are five distances, from 5 km to the full marathon, including an 11 km and a half marathon. Go solo or team up with friends, chase a personal best, or walk, shuffle, dance, dress up or fundraise. Entries for the 11 km, half and full marathon include an event hat of your choice.
Who it suits
Everyone from first-time 5 km walkers to elite runners. Thousands run for fun or for charity.
Entering
Entries for 2027 will open on the marathon site; sign up to be notified of opening dates. The event can sell out, and those registered for updates get the first chance at extra places.
Getting there
Public transport is best on race morning. Check the official race guide for ferry times, start locations and road closures, which are published closer to the day.
Where to stay
Central Auckland and the waterfront are close to the finish. The North Shore suits marathon runners near the start. See our things to do in Auckland guide.
What to bring
Race kit you have trained in, layers to drop at the start for a cool spring morning, and sunscreen.
Make a trip of it
Recover with a ferry trip and a beach day; see our Auckland guide.
FAQ
When is the Auckland Marathon 2027?
Do you run over the Harbour Bridge?
Can I walk it?
How big is it?
Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
