Whakatane Bush Half Marathon 2026
The Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, 18 July 2026, in the scenic coastal region of Ōhope and Whakatāne, New Zealand. Participants will gather at the Ohope Christian Fellowship Church on Maraetotora Road to take part in a nature-focused event featuring a variety of terrains, including gravel roads, native bush single tracks, and sealed sections. Given the mid-winter timing in July, weather conditions in Ōhope are typically cool and can be unpredictable, with temperatures often ranging between 8°C and 15°C, so participants should prepare for potential wind or rain. The event offers a rugged experience that prioritizes coastal and bush scenery over pure speed.
What distances are available for this event?
- →Half Marathon (21.1K)
- →10K
- →5K
What are the course details for the Half Marathon?
The Half Marathon is a mixed-terrain loop with an out-and-back segment. The route includes:
- →An initial 6 km of gravel road through farmland and native bush.
- →4 km of single trail through Fairbrothers Bush Track, offering views of Whale Island and White Island.
- →A 1 km downhill section to Burma Road.
- →A challenging climb up Burma Road followed by bush single track toward White Horse Drive.
- →An out-and-back section before returning.
- →A final stretch consisting of 2 km downhill and 2.5 km of flat gravel to the finish.
What are the course details for the 10K?
The 10K is an out-and-back course on mixed terrain, primarily consisting of gravel roads surrounded by bush:
- →The first 5 km involves an uphill climb through farmland and native bush.
- →The route reaches the summit of Burma Road before turning around.
- →The return leg follows the same route downhill.
What are the course details for the 5K?
The 5K is a non-technical, mixed-terrain out-and-back course designed for accessibility:
- →The route runs 2.5 km along gravel roads through farmland and bush.
- →The turnaround point is located at the base of Burma Road.
- →This distance is suitable for beginners, walkers, and families using prams.
How much does registration cost?
Pricing is divided into standard rates (available until June 30, 2026) and late entry rates (available from July 1–16, 2026):
- →Half Marathon: NZ$50 (standard), NZ$60 (late)
- →10K: NZ$30 (standard), NZ$40 (late)
- →5K: NZ$20 (standard), NZ$30 (late)
What awards are given to participants?
- →All finishers across all distances will receive a finisher's medal.