Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon 2025 - New Zealand's Fastest Half Marathon
A Premier Running Event Since 1987
New Zealand's Fastest Half - Set Your Best time
Guide to the Kerikeri Half Marathon 2025
The Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon is New Zealand's fastest and most scenic half marathon, featuring a predominantly downhill course through the stunning Bay of Islands region in Northland. Scheduled for November 22, 2025, this premier Northland running event attracts thousands of participants seeking personal best times on the 21.1km route from Okaihau to Kerikeri Domain in the heart of the Bay of Islands.
Established in 1987, the Kerikeri Half Marathon has grown from a small local event to one of New Zealand's premier running competitions, attracting thousands of participants from across the country and internationally. The event is known for its largely downhill course, making it ideal for your personal best.
Event Gallery
Moments from previous Kerikeri Half Marathon events
Why Run the Kerikeri Half Marathon?
Fastest Half Marathon in North Island
Run through stunning landscapes on a largely downhill course that starts at Okaihau and finishes at the Kerikeri Domain. Set your personal best on this fast course!
Experience Kerikeri
Discover the beautiful Bay of Islands region, with its rich history, stunning natural attractions, and famous local hospitality.
Famous Kerikeri Street Party
Celebrate your achievement at the legendary post-race street party with live music, local food, and festivities for the whole family.
Race Categories
The Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon offers multiple race categories to suit runners of all abilities
Half Marathon (21.1km)
Start Time: 7:00 AM
Course: Largely downhill route starting at Okaihau and finishing at the Kerikeri Domain, perfect for achieving a personal best.
Age Requirement: 16 years and over
Charity Component: Option to fundraise for the Cancer Society
Post-Race: Lunch and live music at the domain
5km - Adults
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Course: Last 5km of the half marathon course.
Charity Component: Option to fundraise for the Cancer Society
Post-Race: Lunch and live music at the domain
5km - Kids
Start Time: 9:15 AM
Age Requirement: 15 years and under (must be accompanied by an adult if under 15)
Course: Last 5km of the half marathon course.
Charity Component: Option to fundraise for the Cancer Society
Post-Race: Lunch and live music at the domain
Course Details
Everything you need to know about the Kerikeri Half Marathon course
Half Marathon Course (21.1km)
The Kerikeri Half Marathon course is known for its scenic beauty and favorable profile:
- Start Location: Okaihau
- Finish Location: Kerikeri Domain
- Elevation Profile: Net downhill (approximately 200m descent overall)
- Terrain: Primarily sealed roads with some gentle rolling sections
- Scenery: Rural countryside, orchards, and the beautiful Bay of Islands landscape
- Aid Stations: Located approximately every 3-4km with water and electrolytes
- Course Record: 1:04:58 (Men), 1:13:45 (Women)
The course is AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) certified, making it eligible for record attempts and qualification times.
Course Map
The Kerikeri Half Marathon route from Okaihau to Kerikeri Domain
Elevation Profile
Elevation profile showing the net downhill course with approximately 200m descent overall
5km Course
Perfect for beginners, families, and those looking for a shorter challenge
5km Course Map
The 5km route around Kerikeri Domain and surrounding areas
Course Details
- Start: Marsden Winery
- Finish: Kerikeri Domain
- Terrain: Off-road trails with some natural undulations
- Scenery: Kerikeri's beautiful trails and the Wairoa Stream Waterfall
- Aid Stations: Water station at halfway point
Course Tips
- The first 5km has some gentle uphill sections - pace yourself
- Take advantage of the downhill sections between 6-15km
- Be prepared for a few short climbs in the final 5km
- The finish area can be crowded with spectators - look for your supporters!
- November weather can be variable - check the forecast and prepare accordingly
Previous Winners & Records
Celebrating excellence in the Kerikeri Half Marathon
Recent Champions
| Year | Men's Winner | Time | Women's Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | James Wilson | 1:07:32 | Sarah Thompson | 1:15:18 |
| 2023 | Harry Linford | 1:08:24 | Hannah Miller | 1:16:42 |
| 2022 | Michael Voss | 1:07:59 | Olivia Ritchie | 1:17:21 |
| 2021 | Hayden Wilde | 1:06:24 | Camille Buscomb | 1:15:08 |
Course Records:
Runner-Friendly Amenities
Pre-Race Preparation
- Early breakfast options
- Secure parking
- Walk to race start
Convenience
- Walking distance to Kerikeri Domain
- Restaurants and cafes nearby
- Laundry facilities
Charity Component
Step Out For Cancer - Make your run count!
Support the Cancer Society
74 New Zealanders are diagnosed with cancer every day and must face one of the toughest challenges of their lives. By participating in the Kerikeri Half Marathon, you can help make a difference.
When registering for the event, you can opt to fundraise for the Cancer Society. Fundraising incentives include:
- Raise $300: Receive a Cancer Society running short
- Raise $500: Receive wireless Bluetooth earbuds
- Raise $800: Have your entry fee refunded
Over the years, participants in the Kerikeri Half Marathon have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Cancer Society, helping to fund research, education, and support services for those affected by cancer.
Register now to support those living with cancer in Aotearoa.
Keen to support a Kerikeri Half participant as they take on the challenge? Click the link below to donate 🙏
Event Details
Everything you need to know about the Kerikeri Half Marathon
Event Date & Location
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Registration: Opens June 1, 2025 - Register Here
Start Time: 7:00 AM NZDT (Half Marathon)
Start: Okaihau
Finish: Kerikeri Domain
Transportation: Buses available from Kerikeri Domain to the start line (pre-booking required)
Post-Race Activities
Following the event, enjoy the famous Kerikeri street party with lunch on the domain while you groove away any aches and pains to live music.
Entertainment: Live music, food stalls, street performers, and activities for the whole family
Prize Giving: Approximately 11:00 AM at the Kerikeri Domain
Important Note: Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Organizer: Sport Northland
Contact: events@sportnorth.co.nz | 094 379 600
Perfect Accommodation for Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon Runners
Find your ideal Kerikeri accommodation for race weekend in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Northland
Book Your Half Marathon Accommodation Now
Secure your perfect stay for the Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon 2025.
View All Accommodation Options Book Your Half Marathon Stay in Kerikeri, NorthlandExplore Kerikeri & The Bay of Islands, Northland
Make the most of your visit to this beautiful Northland region
Historical Sites
- Kerikeri Mission Station: New Zealand's oldest European buildings
- Stone Store: New Zealand's oldest stone building (1832)
- Kemp House: New Zealand's oldest surviving European building (1822)
Natural Attractions
- Rainbow Falls: Spectacular 27m waterfall just minutes from town
- Puketi Forest: Ancient kauri forest with walking tracks
- Bay of Islands: Take a cruise to see dolphins and the famous Hole in the Rock
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds: New Zealand's most important historic site
Food & Wine
- Kerikeri Farmers Market: Sunday mornings at Hobson Avenue
- Kerikeri Packhouse Market: Saturday mornings at Kerikeri Road
- Makana Chocolate Factory: Watch chocolates being made and sample the goods
- Marsden Estate Winery: Award-winning wines and restaurant
- Ake Ake Vineyard: Boutique organic vineyard with restaurant
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Event Information
Q: How do I register for the Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon?
A: Registration are open through the Sport Northland website.
Q: Is there an age restriction for the half marathon?
A: Participants must be 16 years or older for the half marathon. The 5km event is open
to all ages, but children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Q: How do I get to the start line?
A: Buses transport runners from the Kerikeri Domain to the start line at Okaihau. Bus
tickets must be purchased during registration.
Q: What's included in my registration?
A: Registration includes race entry, timing chip, event t-shirt, finisher's medal,
post-race refreshments, and access to the finish line festivities.
Q: Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
A: Yes, registration transfers are permitted until October 31, 2025, for a small
administration fee.
Q: What happens if the event is cancelled?
A: Please see sports Northlands cancellation policy on their website.