What distances are available for this event?
- →Full Marathon (42.2km)
- →Half Marathon (21.1km)
- →Team Relay (42.2km)
- →10km Buller Heritage Fun Run/Walk
What is the event venue and finish location?
The event venue is Westport, New Zealand, located in the Buller District. All events conclude with a finish in Victoria Square, the central square in Westport.
What is the course description for the full marathon?
The full marathon course begins at Hawks Crag in the eastern Buller Gorge and heads upstream approximately 8km along State Highway 6 to a turnaround point just past Berlin's. Runners then follow the Buller River downstream to Westport. The return leg is predominantly downhill with gentle undulations. Three modest climbs occur at Tiroroa, Ohikaiti, and Omanu, with the steepest being a 35-metre elevation gain near the 32km mark. The final 248 metres from the Post Office corner to the finish chute in Victoria Square is flat.
What is the course description for the half marathon?
The half marathon is a one-way point-to-point course starting 100 metres east of the Ohikaiti River Bridge. Runners follow the same downstream route through the gorge to the Victoria Square finish. The course is entirely downhill and rolling, with no laps or loops.
What are the changeover points for the team relay?
The team relay has changeover points at:
- →East side of Stitts Bluff (after initial uphill section)
- →Ohikaiti (half marathon start)
- →Approximately 50 metres east of Scout Lodge along Scout Lodge Straight
What are the road closure details for the event?
Road closures on State Highway 6 will be in effect from Inangahua Junction to Four Mile Junction from 8:00am to 10:00am on the event day.
What are the race start times for each event?
- →Full and Half Marathon: 8:30am
- →Team Relay: 8:35am
- →10km Buller Heritage Fun Run/Walk: 9:30am
What facilities are available on the course?
There are ten drink stations positioned along the marathon course, and personal drink drop-off is available for participants. Bus transport is provided from Victoria Square to the start lines for full and half marathon participants, departing from 6:45am.
What is the terrain like for the 10km Buller Heritage Fun Run/Walk?
The 10km event uses mixed-terrain on the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, which includes flat gravel paths, timber boardwalks, and bridges. The trail edges have drop-offs, and participants are advised to be cautious to avoid ankle injuries.
What is the course certification status?
The course is certified by a registered surveyor, ensuring accurate distance measurements for all events.
What is the finish line like for all events?
All events finish through a celebratory chute in Victoria Square, the central square of Westport, where participants can celebrate their achievement.
What is the weather like in Westport on the event date?
On February 14, 2026, Westport is expected to have mild weather with temperatures ranging between 8°C and 14°C and a mix of sun and cloud cover. Participants are advised to prepare for variable conditions.
What are the notable features of the course?
The course features scenic running beside the Buller River through native bush and dramatic gorge landscapes. The full marathon is known for its downhill return leg and the unique combination of accessibility and breathtaking scenery.
What is the historical significance of the event?
The Buller Gorge Marathon was established in the early 1980s and has become a West Coast tradition. It is held annually on Valentine's weekend, chosen for historically favorable February weather. The course is celebrated for its unique combination of accessibility and stunning natural landscapes.
What are the course rules for the full and half marathon?
Runners on the full and half marathon must stay on the right-hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic. The entire route runs on sealed highway, and participants are expected to follow all traffic rules.
What additional precautions should participants take?
The event is notorious for sandflies, and participants are strongly advised to apply insect repellent. The 10km fun run/walk trail includes drop-offs, requiring attention to avoid ankle injuries.
