Course Map
Route based on 2021 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon is a scenic New Zealand course famous for its crossing of the Harbour Bridge, tracing the waterfront and the city's coastal surroundings on gently rolling terrain. The bridge climb and undulations give it character amid the beautiful harbour setting. Held in November, it offers mild late-spring conditions and lovely coastal scenery. The bridge and harbour define the day. It suits runners who want a scenic Kiwi city race with a memorable bridge crossing and don't mind the rolling terrain over a flat-out fast time.
Course Insight
Auckland's marathon crosses the Harbour Bridge, normally off-limits to runners, on a scenic spring course with some rolling terrain and harbour views. Pace the bridge climb by effort and settle into rhythm on the flatter stretches. Mild conditions suit racing. The harbour crossing is a genuine highlight. Run the rollers with restraint and the course stays an ally to the finish.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (353m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 353m
- Elevation loss
- 262m
- Highest point
- 39m
- Lowest point
- 2m
- Net elevation
- +91m
- Start
- Devonport (North Shore)
- Cutoff time
- 7h 0m
Race History
The Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon grew into its modern form in the 1990s, a scenic New Zealand course famous for its crossing of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, tracing the waterfront on gently rolling terrain. Its bridge climb and beautiful harbour setting defined its character. From its founding it grew into one of the country's premier marathons. Held each November, it draws a field to the harbour city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Auckland (AKL)
- Best area to stay
- The Viaduct in the CBD for proximity to the route and full hotels, Ponsonby for trendy, characterful stays, and Devonport for charming options near the bridge start.
- Getting to the start
- It's point-to-point starting on the North Shore (Devonport/Smales Farm); take the official ferry or bus to the start, as the course crosses the Harbour Bridge into the city.