Kepler Farm provides a true point-to-point trail feel: Mt Titiroa is at your back, the World Heritage Fiordland National Park is to your left, and you'll see expansive southern-country views from the start. The Meridian Hydro Half Marathon is set in a location where the description “stunning scenery will entertain even the seasoned runner” rings true.
From there, the course follows the Upper Waiau River to the Lake Te Anau Control gates, then traverses the “lakefront trail” toward Steamers Beach for the finish. It's off-road running with sufficient named landmarks for navigation, and a practical trail-runner tradition: this is a cup-free event, so bring your own cup or bottle to refill at aid stations.