AKAROA HALF MARATHON RUN WALK
Half Marathon Information
Date: Sunday 17 May 2026
Distance: 21KM Half Marathon Run or Walk
Start Time: 10:00am
Start Line: Summit Road
Finish Line: Akaroa Domain
Race Briefing: 9:45am Start Line - Summit Road
Minimum Age: 14yr
Cut Off Times:
- 2:00pm at 10.5km mark
- 3:00pm at 14.5km mark
Prizes:
1st, 2nd, 3rd Women, Men Overall,
Timing Categories:
1st Female, 1st Male 14-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
Additional Info:
- Walkers are very welcome in this event, however there is no separate walk category for the 21km Half Marathon event.
- Due to Traffic Management restrictions we have cut offs at various points along the course (please see above)
- 4:00pm FULL COURSE CLOSURE
Breathtaking scenery in every direction!
Course Description
The Run Akaroa Half Marathon course is packed with incredible scenery the entire way. The course has been designed to allow for a point-to-point experience, making sure each step competitors take is on new ground and offers epic views at every turn.
The race starts along Summit Rd above Little Akaloa, allowing runners and walkers the chance to enjoy the views from the summit without having to do the ascending. Summit Road is a favourite for travellers to Akaroa and Banks Peninsula. For this day only the road has restricted access to all vehicles, allowing the chance for competitors to take in the spectacular 360 degrees views safely. The sealed road is undulating and travels around the rim of the ancient volcano, now known as Akaroa Harbour. At times the views are out over the South Pacific Ocean and at other times the views are across the sparking waters of the harbour. The village of Akaroa comes into sight as competitors head around the crater rim, creating a wonderful 'marker' to aim for as the kilometres go by.
There are Aid Stations positioned at regular intervals, with the final Aid Station at the completion of Summit Road. The final 7km of the course is descending down into Akaroa Harbour via Long Bay Road. Each step down the hill brings runners closer to the sea-side Finish Line where supporters and a beautiful 'finishers medal' will be waiting.
Sealed Road 100%
Course Map
Elevation Profile
Aid Stations
Aid Stations will be at the following approximate distances in the Run Akaroa Half Marathon:
3.5km "OKAINS" Aid Station
10.5km "LE BONS" Aid Station
14.5km "LONG BAY" Aid Station
All Aid Stations will have water, PURE Electrolyte Hydration, and a supply of fruit, lollies, chips, etc.
Each Aid Station is well stocked and Gluten Free options are available. Toilets will be available at each Aid Station. Women's period products are available.
HOW TO GET TO THE START LINE
Vehicle Drop Off
Competitors can be dropped off at the start line by private vehicle. The Half Marathon start line is situated along Summit Road, just past the turn off to Little Akaloa. Summit Road will be closed to all vehicles other than competitor vehicles and crew vehicles during this process.
Marshals will guide drivers to where competitors will be dropped off. Drivers must follow all instructions and keep the flow of traffic moving at all times.
There is NO PARKING on Summit Road while competitors are being dropped off. Drivers will need to drop off their competitor and leave via Okains Bay Road. Marshals will be directing vehicles. (Please see the relevant map below.)
All competitors will need to be dropped off by 9:00am. All vehicles must be off Summit Road by 9:00am to ensure the race can start on time.
Vehicles can only travel in the direction from the Hilltop towards Akaroa. Access to Summit Rd will close to vehicles at 8:25am to ensure all vehicles are cleared off the road in time for the road closure to come into effect.
See the maps below for specific information.
Bus Drop Off OPTION 1
You are able to catch a bus from central Christchurch city to your start line. Buses will transport you back to the city later in the day.
Bus Drop Off OPTION 2
If you are leaving your vehicle in Akaroa for the day you are able to catch a bus from Akaroa on the morning of the race.
Access to Summit Rd between 7:45am - 8:30am
Vehicle Drop Off Information - 21km Start Line
All competitors will need to be dropped off by 9:00am.
All vehicles must be off Summit Road by 9:10am to ensure the race can start on time. (See map below for designated routes to and from the 21km Start Line.)