Mcleans Forest Run 2026
Best For: Runners seeking a fast, rhythm-focused trail experience without the technical headache of mountain scrambling.
Course Character: Mixed terrain; mostly flat to gently rolling forest trails, gravel, and some grass.
Logistics Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Easy access from Christchurch via a short drive; well-organized inaugural setup.)
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Exclusive forest access for these prices is a steal.)
---
This is a rare opportunity to run through "off-limits" sections of McLeans Forest. It’s not a technical mountain race that will wreck your ankles, but rather a high-flow, runnable forest adventure that sits perfectly between a road race and a rugged trail event.
McLeans Forest Run 2026 takes place on Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Christchurch, New Zealand. You can choose from a Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K distance. The standout feature is the exclusive access to restricted forest tracks and the Gordon Reid MTB trails, making it a unique playground for a single day.
Which distance should I pick for the best experience?
If you want the "real" version of this event, sign up for the Half Marathon. It’s a single, continuous loop that avoids the repetitive feel of many trail races, taking you through forest, open parkland, and stopbanks. It feels like a journey rather than just a workout. For those chasing a personal best, the 10K is your best bet; it’s incredibly smooth and designed for consistent pacing. The 5K is a fun, short loop that gets you onto the Gordon Reid MTB-only tracks—a rare treat if you usually have to stay on the main paths.
What is the terrain actually like?
Don't expect to be technical climbing or navigating rock gardens. This is a "runnable" trail event. You'll deal with a mix of established forest paths, gravel park roads, and some grass sections (about 1.6km in the Half Marathon and 1.27km in the 10K). It’s mostly flat with gentle undulations. It is beginner-friendly and great for anyone who wants the forest atmosphere without the risk of a twisted ankle on a steep descent.
What should I pack for a July race in Canterbury?
July is mid-winter in New Zealand. Expect crisp, cool, and potentially damp conditions. At the 09:00 start time, you’ll likely be looking at temperatures in the single digits (Celsius). I highly recommend a lightweight, breathable long-sleeve layer and perhaps a thin vest. Since there are grass sections, your shoes might get a bit tacky if it has rained recently, but you won't need aggressive, deep-lugged mountain shoes—standard trail runners will be perfect.
How much is this going to cost me?
The pricing is tiered, so grab the early bird spots if you can. The Half Marathon is NZ$85 (early) / NZ$99 (standard), the 10K is NZ$50 (early) / NZ$65 (standard), and the 5K is a very budget-friendly NZ$15 (early) / NZ$25 (standard). Given the exclusive access to closed forest sections, the value proposition is very high.
How do I get to the start line?
You’ll want to fly into Christchurch International Airport. From there, it’s a straightforward drive toward the Waimakariri River Regional Park. I suggest staying in Christchurch city or nearby suburbs the night before to avoid any morning rush. While there is a large parking area at the venue, don't attempt to park on McLeans Island Road; stick to the designated zones to avoid a headache on race morning.