Kaikōura Whale Run
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Kaikōura Whale Run - event overview
The Kaikōura Whale Run is a community running and walking event held on Saturday 5 September 2026. Courses were revised in 2022 to include more off-road trail sections and less time on sealed roads. The routes pass through native bush, farmland, creek crossings and gravel tracks, and offer views of the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges and the Kaikōura Peninsula.
Facilities on course include portaloo toilets and drink stations. After finishing there are refreshments and stalls within the school grounds. The organisers provide a traffic management plan for the routes. All competitors have times and places recorded, and finisher medals are awarded to all competitors including the Marafun participants.
Race categories include:
- 1/2 Marathon Run or Walk
- 12 km Run or Walk
- 5 km Run or Walk (hybrid event)
- Marafun for preschool and early primary children, recommended aged 8 years and under
The half marathon and 12 km events are run-only or walk-only categories rather than hybrid events. The Marafun is held off-road within the Kaikōura Suburban School grounds and includes fun obstacles.
Key race rules require wearing the race number on the chest to be timed, following the course brief and officials’ directions, keeping to the left of the road unless directed otherwise, and no dogs. If key roads close for reasons beyond the organisers’ control, refunds will not be given. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
