Auckland Marathon
Auckland, New Zealand · First Sunday of November
New Zealand's most iconic marathon starts in the historic seaside suburb of Devonport on the North Shore, crosses the Auckland Harbour Bridge — the only time each year civilians can cross it on foot — and winds through the city's waterfront before a flat out-and-back along the Tāmaki Estuary to St Heliers Bay and back to Victoria Park. The bridge crossing at km 16 (a 45-metre climb to the peak) is the race's signature moment and biggest physical challenge; the second half is flat and scenic along Auckland's world-class waterfront.
Course
Elevation gain
217 m
Net elevation
+1 m
Finishers
~2,794
Month
November
First Sunday of November
Race-day weather
Median start temp
14°C
Historical range
10–20°C
Hot-year risk
Low
Auckland in early November is NZ's mid-spring: morning start temperatures of 12–16°C with a sea breeze off the Waitemata Harbour. Conditions are generally good for running; rain and wind are the main variables, not heat.
Getting in
Sells out fast. First-come, first-served via aucklandmarathon.co.nz; no lottery. New Zealand's largest race sells out months before race day. Opens in the preceding spring — register early. Official site ↗
Pacing plans for Auckland Marathon
Course-adjusted splits for every common goal — not flat even splits, but pacing that matches where this course is fast and where it bites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Auckland Marathon a fast course?
It is not considered a PR course. The course has 217 m of total elevation gain. We rate it 5/10 for PR potential.
What is the weather usually like at the Auckland Marathon?
The median start-line temperature is around 14°C, with a historical range of roughly 10–20°C. Auckland in early November is NZ's mid-spring: morning start temperatures of 12–16°C with a sea breeze off the Waitemata Harbour. Conditions are generally good for running; rain and wind are the main variables, not heat.
How do you get into the Auckland Marathon?
Sells out fast. First-come, first-served via aucklandmarathon.co.nz; no lottery. New Zealand's largest race sells out months before race day. Opens in the preceding spring — register early.
Is the Auckland Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes — the Auckland Marathon is a certified course accepted by the B.A.A. for Boston qualifying times.