Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Air New Zealand Queenstown Marathon is one of the most spectacular races in the world, tracing the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath the jagged peaks of the Remarkables on largely flat trails and paths through the South Island adventure capital. The gentle profile is reasonably fast, but the breathtaking alpine-and-lake scenery is the headline. Held in November, it offers cool late-spring conditions and unforgettable views. The mountains and lake define the day. It suits runners who want one of the most beautiful courses anywhere, with a flat-leaning profile to match the scenery.
Course Insight
Queenstown is one of the most scenic marathons anywhere, running beside the lakes and beneath the mountains of New Zealand's adventure capital over some rolling terrain. Pace the rises by effort and let the staggering scenery carry you. Mild spring conditions suit racing. The lake-and-peak setting is a constant lift. Run the rollers with restraint and the beauty becomes the reward.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (322m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 322m
- Elevation loss
- 414m
- Highest point
- 439m
- Lowest point
- 313m
- Net elevation
- -92m
- Start
- Starts at Millbrook Resort near Arrowtown, finishes at Queenstown Gardens.
- Cutoff time
- 7h 40m
Race History
The Air New Zealand Queenstown Marathon was first held in 2014, one of the most spectacular races in the world, tracing the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath the jagged peaks of the Remarkables on largely flat trails. Its gentle profile and breathtaking alpine-and-lake scenery defined its character. From its founding it became a hugely popular bucket-list event. Held each November, it draws a field to the South Island adventure capital.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Queenstown (ZQN), Christchurch (CHC) & Invercargill (IVC)
- Best area to stay
- The central waterfront for proximity to the course and lakeside hotels, Frankton for value options near the route, and Arrowtown for charming stays nearby.
- Getting to the start
- It's point-to-point near Millbrook/the lakeside; take the official shuttle to the start, with the finish in the Queenstown gardens.