Explore McLeans Forest with the inaugural McLeans Forest Run, a brand-new event series set in the heart of the Waimakariri River Regional Park. This special anniversary event invites runners of all abilities to experience the forest in a whole new way, with a choice of three distances designed to suit everyone from first timers to seasoned runners.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying time on the trails, the event offers a scenic, well-supported course and a chance to be part of a milestone moment in this unique riverside park.
The course routes take in a mix of existing established walking tracks, gravel park and mixed-use walking cycling tracks. There will be a 1.6km section of grassed track on the half marathon and 10km courses.
Choose your distance and be part of the first edition!
Event schedule
- Sun, July 5, 2026 7:00 am - Park gates open
- Sun, July 5, 2026 8:45 am - Half Marathon pre-race briefing
- Sun, July 5, 2026 9:00 am - Half Marathon START
- Sun, July 5, 2026 9:15 am - 10km pre-race briefing
- Sun, July 5, 2026 9:30 am - 10km START
- Sun, July 5, 2026 9:45 am - 5km pre-race briefing
- Sun, July 5, 2026 10:00 am - 5km START
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
Half Marathon
Price changes in 2 months 8 days-
A one-of-a-kind half marathon through McLeans Forest. This single-loop course has been designed exclusively for race day and showcases parts of McLeans not normally accessible to runners. With no backtracking, the route flows continuously through forest trails, open parkland, along stopbanks and purpose-built connections, delivering a true sense of journey from start to finish. The course makes use of a mix of established trails and temporarily opened sections, creating a unique race experience. Carefully marshalled and fully supported, the Half Marathon offers a fresh challenge in a familiar landscape. Whether you’re chasing a strong half marathon effort or simply keen to experience McLeans Forest in a new way, this is a rare opportunity to run a course designed solely for this event.
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Register for Half MarathonNZ$85.00
Early bird pricing
Now registering Feb 1 – Jun 4 -
NZ$99.00
Standard pricing
Jun 5 – Jun 26
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10km
Price changes in 2 months 8 days-
A fast, scenic run through the heart of McLeans Forest. The 10 km course follows a single loop route primarily on established forest trails, making it accessible, runnable and well suited to both experienced runners and those stepping up to the distance. The course is designed to flow smoothly, with clear sightlines and a consistent rhythm throughout. A 1.27 km grassed section adds variety to the course, providing a change of terrain before returning to the forest trails. With a mix of forest cover and open landscape, the McLeans Forest 10 km delivers a balanced and enjoyable race experience in a well-supported, traffic-free environment.
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Register for 10kmNZ$50.00
Early bird pricing
Now registering Feb 1 – Jun 4 -
NZ$65.00
Standard pricing
Jun 5 – Jun 26
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5km
Price changes in 2 months 8 days-
Get the whole family moving with the 5 km route, a scenic introduction to McLeans Forest. Perfect for beginners, walkers, or those who just want to enjoy a relaxed run through the park, this course offers a fun and memorable experience in a safe, supported environment. The route follows a mix of existing forest trails and a special section of mountain bike-only track through the Gordon Reid Forest that is normally closed to runners. This gives participants a rare opportunity to explore parts of the forest not usually accessible on foot. The course loops back to the start, providing a continuous, easy-to-navigate experience without any backtracking. Marshals and clear signage will guide you along the way, making it perfect for first-time runners, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy the forest at their own pace.
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Register for 5kmNZ$15.00
Early bird pricing
Now registering Feb 1 – Jun 4 -
NZ$25.00
Standard pricing
Jun 5 – Jun 26
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We will have staff directing parking at the event in the morning. There is a large area for competitor/spectator parking and a smaller area for marshal/volunteer parking. There is plenty of parking so please don't park on McLeans Island Road or along the entrance way.
Step into the unique landscape of McLeans Forest and choose the distance that suits your stride. Whether you’re taking on the Half Marathon, pushing your pace in the 10km, or enjoying a fast and friendly 5km, each course offers its own mix of forest scenery, flowing trails and race‑day atmosphere.
Countdown to event
Contact information
- Event contact
- Regional Park Events
- Website
- Visit website
