Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon 2026

The Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon begins at Ōhope Christian Fellowship Church, offering a local off-road event feel rather than a formal road race. The course enters the coastline and nearby hills, featuring native bush trails that provide the damp, green, under-canopy atmosphere runners recall once their legs have warmed up. Expect varied footing: "lush bush tracks", "meandering gravel paths", and "smooth sealed roads" connect through scenic natural areas. It appeals to experienced runners seeking diverse terrain, but beginners, casual runners, walkers, and newer participants also attend, with a finisher's medal for all who complete the course.