The Red Stag Rotorua Marathon is on Saturday 1 May 2027 and, for the first time in more than 50 years, runs anti-clockwise around Lake Rotorua, the direction of the first race in 1965. The start and finish are now together at an event village on the redeveloped lakefront outside the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside. There is also an all-new NZCT Half Marathon from Hamurana Springs, plus the Te Puia 10 km and Wai Ariki 5 km.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- Saturday 1 May 2027
- Hub
- Start, finish and event village on the Rotorua lakefront outside Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
- Distances
- Red Stag Marathon, NZCT Half Marathon, Te Puia 10 km, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa 5 km
- Half start
- 7.30 am at Hamurana Springs; free buses from the Rotorua i-SITE, 6.15 to 7 am
- Age limits
- Marathon 18+, half marathon 16+
- Walkers
- Welcome in all events, with no walking awards
What it is
The Rotorua Marathon is New Zealand’s iconic lake marathon: “one lake, one lap, endless views”. The race began in 1965, and on Saturday 1 May 2027 it changes direction, running anti-clockwise around Lake Rotorua for the first time in over 50 years. Organisers say the switch brings runners closer to the water, with more lake views and quieter roads.
The courses
Red Stag Marathon (42.195 km). One lap of the lake, starting and finishing on the redeveloped Rotorua lakefront outside the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, the same stretch runners left from the last time the race ran this way. The course is measured and certified by World Athletics. Runners must be 18 or older. Personalised drink bottles can be handed in at registration before 8 pm on Friday 30 April for stations at 9.3, 19.5, 27.8 and 37 km. They are not returned, so use recyclable bottles.
NZCT Half Marathon (21.1 km). A brand-new, quieter course shaped by runner feedback. It starts at 7.30 am at picturesque Hamurana Springs (773 Hamurana Road) and runs anti-clockwise into the city. Buses are included in the entry and leave from outside the Rotorua i-SITE on Fenton Street between 6.15 am and 7 am. The trip takes about 20 minutes, and personal drop-offs are not allowed. A drop bag service brings your gear back to the finish. Runners must be 16 or older, and timing stops at 5 pm.
Te Puia 10 km and Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa 5 km round out the options.
Walkers are welcome in every event, recorded as participants without walking awards. Age groups run from 18 to 24 up to 80+.
Who it suits
Marathoners who want a classic, historic course, half marathoners keen on the new scenic route, and families or casual runners in the shorter races.
Where to stay
The lakefront hotels are a short walk from the hub. Book early, because the town fills up. Our things to do in Rotorua guide covers the areas.
What to bring
Layers for a cool May start and your tested race kit.
Make a trip of it
Soak tired legs in a geothermal pool; our hot pools guide has options in Rotorua. See things to do in Rotorua for more.
FAQ
When is the Rotorua Marathon 2027?
What is different in 2027?
How do I get to the half marathon start?
Can I walk?
Can I have my own drinks on the course?
Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
