The First Light Marathon is on Saturday 23 January 2027 in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, the first city in the world to see the sun each day. It is an adventure race over grassy hills, dirt roads, single track, white sand and pavement, starting and finishing at the Midway Surf Life Saving Club. Choose a 42.2 km marathon, 21.1 km half or 6 km fun run, and climb the short, steep hills to watch the world's first sunrise over the Pacific.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- Saturday 23 January 2027
- Where
- Midway Surf Life Saving Club, 40 Centennial Marine Drive, Awapuni, Gisborne
- Distances
- 42.2 km marathon, 21.1 km half marathon, 6 km fun run
- Terrain
- Grassy hills, dirt roads, single track, sand and pavement
- Entries
- Registration closes Thursday 18 November 2026
- Rules
- No Nordic walking or trekking poles; half marathon 16+
What it is
Gisborne is the first city in the world to see the sun each day, and the First Light Marathon is built around that. Runners set off to “race into the world’s first sunrise”, climbing short, steep hills above the Pacific to watch the new day arrive. The 2027 race is on Saturday 23 January, starting and finishing by the boardwalk next to the Midway Surf Life Saving Club.
The course
There are three distances: a 42.2 km marathon, a 21.1 km half marathon and a 6 km fun run. This is an adventure race rather than a city marathon. The route mixes grassy hills, dirt roads, single-track trails, white sand and pavement, with spectacular beaches and coastal views. It is marked with flags, arrows and kilometre signs.
- Water stations about every 4 km with water and energy drinks; one marathon station has gels
- A staffed bag drop at the start and finish
- A 4-hour cut-off at halfway for the marathon
- No Nordic walking or trekking poles
- Half marathon runners must be 16 or older
- All finishers get a medal; winners get a small symbolic prize, with no prize money
Distance changes can be made until 8 pm the night before, subject to availability.
Who it suits
Trail and adventure runners, and road runners who want a memorable race with views. The fun run suits families and walkers.
Entries and packages
Registration for 2027 is open, and the race site lists Thursday 18 November 2026 as the last day to sign up. International runners can book a five-day package with accommodation, a traditional pōwhiri and optional excursions.
Weather
January is the height of summer. Expect warm days, light moisture-wicking clothing and plenty of sunscreen, but bring a layer for the chilly pre-dawn start.
Getting there
Midway Beach is in Awapuni, a few minutes’ drive from central Gisborne. Gisborne Airport has flights from Auckland and Wellington, and the drive from Napier takes about 3 hours (an estimate).
Where to stay
Gisborne has beachfront motels, holiday parks and B&Bs. January is peak season, so book early.
Make a trip of it
Stay on to surf, eat local, or drive State Highway 35 around the East Cape. Gisborne also makes a detour from our 10-day North Island road trip.
FAQ
When is the First Light Marathon 2027?
When do entries close?
Is it a road marathon?
Are there water stations?
Is there a cut-off?
Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
