Kaikōura Mountains to Sea 2026

The Kaikōura Mountains To Sea Marathon is an annual run and walk event held at South Bay Racecourse in Kaikōura, Canterbury. Its routes traverse areas from the sea edge, peninsula tracks, and grass trails to rougher bike, sand, and gravel paths. The event offers 5 km, 10 km, half marathon, and full marathon distances, along with a team relay for the marathon distance. Walkers can participate in the 5 km, 10 km, and half marathon; the full marathon is exclusively for runners. Funds are raised for Kaikōura High School and the Kaikōura Lions Club. The 5 km begins at the Seal Colony, features a steep climb early on, and concludes at South Bay Racecourse, primarily on a grass trail. The 10 km starts and finishes at the racecourse, runs along South Bay beach, and crosses the peninsula via coastal and boardwalk sections. The half marathon incorporates coastal tracks and peninsula routes before proceeding south towards the Kowhai River. The full marathon extends further, reaching the Mt Fyffe car park turnaround before returning. All finishers are awarded a medal. Water stations are available on all courses except the 5 km. Spot prizes are awarded only to those present at the prize-giving ceremony.