Taupo: renowned for being one of the most stunning event locations in the world. Home of the New Zealand Ironman, this picturesque lakeside town is now home to New Zealand’s newest marathon, happening on Saturday, 1 August 2015.
With a rich 22 year history under its belt, the Hoka One One Taupo started purely as a half marathon distance before the 5km and 10km categories were added two years ago. The organisers are excited about the new marathon event this year.
“The marathon starts at world famous HukaFalls,” explains Event Manager Mark Fordham. “We think it is one of the most beautiful starts to any marathon around the world, you will need to see it to believe it.”
The first half of the marathon course takes in beautifully groomed trails up and down either side of the Waikato River. Mostly flat, easy running or walking with awe-inspiring views over the magnificent falls and river. The second half of the marathon course takes participants along the edge of beautiful Lake Taupo.
Meanwhile, at a different starting area, the Tongariro Domain (Great Lake Centre), 10km and 5km runners will be taken out on a scenic out and back course along the lakefront. Flagging off in waves from 9:00 a.m., half marathon runners and walkers will set off on a course laid out on a mostly flat road along Lake Terrace and the highway, all the way out to Mahuta Road, before looping back to the start.
The first male and female in each event category will be awarded prizes and marathon finishers will receive a medal. All finishers receive a chocolate fish (Taupo brown trout) on exiting the finish area that’s something new! Unwind post-race with the massages, hot soup and buns, as well as other refreshments are available in the finishing area at the Great Lake Centre.
Online Entry Closes 29 July 2015
Entry fees for adults range from NZ$40 to NZ$129 for the 5km, 10km, 21km or 42km distances. Youths up to 18 years can sign up for NZ$20 in the half marathon, 10km and 5km categories. To encourage families to have an active day out, family group discounts are available, too.
Psst! There’s a special offer for friends of RunSociety! Any international entrant not living in New Zealand can use the pin code DRUNSOCIETY when you enter online to receive a 20% discount off your entry fee.
Hurry though, entrant numbers are expected to reach 3,500 this year with 500 of those in the inaugural Marathon entrants.
You can also get Marmot Event Shirt for only NZ$39.00! Available in grey for men and blue for ladies, they are designed with lightweight, breathable, quick-drying performance knit fabric.?Upon registration, you can also donate to their?chosen charity, Lake Taupo Hospice Trust.
For more information head to the event’s official website or visit their Facebook page to get connected with other runners and watch course map videos, too.
