Seven distances to cater for all levels of fitness. Fetch your start line on Sunday 5th October 2025.
Events
Full Marathon (42.2km) – “Breath taking”
Everything a marathoner could ask for. Spectacular forest and beach views with a touch of isolation and seclusion. Take the path less travelled and witness nature’s raw beauty where the great Waimakariri River meets the sea. Be warned that this is a challenging course and not for the faint hearted. Certain to strengthen the special bond between you and your best friend.
Pricing
Early $105 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $120 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $135 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $150 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
32.2km – “The mini-marathon”
For those curious about life after a half marathon and keen to have a taster of a full marathon, then this is the perfect course for you! All the beauty and remoteness of the full marathon course with a bit less suffering.
Pricing
Early $85 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $95 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $105 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $120 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
Half Marathon (21.1km) – “A true gem”
The marquee event of the 4 Paws Marathon. Take a stroll through lush forest and then run along the beach towards the iconic New Brighton pier. On a good day this is nothing short of heavenly. Sun rising to your east and dog by your side, this is pure running magic. A popular choice for those seeking beauty and challenge.
Pricing
Early $75 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $85 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $95 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $110 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
16km – “A stepping stone”
The perfect stepping stone for accomplished 10km athletes who aren’t quite ready to tackle the half marathon distance. A nice mixture of the 10km and half marathon courses minus the escapade along the beach.
Pricing
Early $60 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $70 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $80 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $95 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
10km – “Refreshing”
A sensory explosion! Breathe in the fresh air and invigorating scent of pine as you course through the very heart of the 1000 hectare Bottle Lake Forest. An exhilarating run through forest and soft pine that allows you to unwind and reconnect with your best friend.
Pricing
Early $50 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $60 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $70 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $85 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
5km – “Fun for everyone”
A distance for those with shorter legs but big hearts and an appetiser for future challenges to come. Experience forest canopy, pine needle paths, and sandy tracks. An entry level 5km for you and your dog. Dare to dream and believe. The start line invites you and your loyal friend.
Pricing
Early $35 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $45 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $55 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $70 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)
2.5km Rascal's Run – “For the little ones”
A nice way to involve the children in your family. The 2.4km Rascal’s Run is designed for children aged 5-9 years. All child finishers will receive a small 4 Paws Marathon medal. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Pricing
Early $20 (1 April – 30 June)
Standard $25 (1 July – 24 Aug)
Late $30 (25 Aug – 21 Sep)
Super Late $45 (22 Sep – 01 Oct)