Cape Egmont Half Marathon

The Cape Egmont Half Marathon is a low-key country-road half marathon on the western side of Mt Taranaki, with the Cape Egmont lighthouse marking the race's namesake. It is listed as 21.1 kilometres, although one runner measured it at 21.4. The course runs mostly on sealed rural roads between farms and small towns. The race has had wet, cold starts, giving it the feel of a hardy local outing rather than a polished big-city road event. The course includes a short unsealed section just after the second aid station and relay hand-over, adding a rougher edge compared to a standard road half. Nicky Smith created the event to honour a close running friend and her father, both of whom died from cancer. All proceeds go to the Cancer Society. Volunteers staff the course through difficult weather, and a tail-end Charlie follows the final participants to ensure no one is left behind.