frequently asked questions
If you haven’t found what you’re looking for, hopefully the answer is below.
Please refer to our event Terms & Conditions for more information:
Read Terms & Conditions for the full marathon, half marathon, Go Media 10km, First Credit Union 5.5km, Lakefront Mile, and Runway5.
Q: We are planning on entering a group from work / friends / club – can we get a discount?
A: Yes, we do offer group discounts for large groups from one organisation or business. Please contact us at marathon@athletics.org.nz for more information.
Q: Is there a time limit for the events?
A: Yes there is a time limit for the full marathon.
In the full marathon competitors need to be at the 23.5km mark (Ramada Resort) by 1:00pm, otherwise there will be a minivan for those that don’t make the cut off and they will be taken to the finish line. Those crossing the finish line after this time will be deemed not to have finished and will not be eligible for the finisher's medal (full marathon only).
Q: Is there a minimum entry age for the events?
2. Age: The minimum age for the 5.5km and Runway5 is 10 years of age. The minimum age for the 10km is 12 years of age. The minimum age for the Half Marathon is 16 years of age and the minimum age for the Marathon is 18 years of age. The minimum age for the People’s Lakefront Mile is 13 years. The age range for the Kids Lakefront Mile is 5-12 years. All ages are taken on the day of the event.
Q: Can I transfer my entry to another person, distance of category?
A: Entries can be transferred to another person, distance or category, as long as any increase in fees, has been paid in full. Read our Terms & Conditions for more information and cut off dates for transfers.
Q: I want to enter as a Competitive Walker – I cannot see this option when entering?
A: There is a walking category for the full marathon, half marathon, Go Media 10km and Runway 5km distance. There is no walk judging of these events and therefore we rely on the honesty and integrity of competitors in relation to correct walking technique. More information here.
Q: Are there entry number limits for the events?
A: Depending on entries there may be restrictions in some events depending on the holding capacity and popularity of any specific event. Best to get in quick to avoid disappointment!
Q: Where are the drink stations?
A: Drinks stations are shown on the course maps for the full marathon, half marathon, and Go Media 10km. The maps show which drink stations will have water only and those that will have water and electrolyte drink from our Official Hydration Partner R-Line. For the First Credit Union 5.5km, Lakefront Mile and Runway5 a drink station will be located at the finish line area.
Q: Where do I collect my pre-ordered t-shirt?
A: From Event Registration either on Friday 3rd May (3:00pm-8pm) at the Energy Events Centre, or on the morning of Saturday 4th May from 6:30am from the same venue. Further information can be found here.
Q: Are we allowed dogs to come around the course with us on a lead?
A: No pets allowed at all times.
Q: Will I get a free gift with my entry?
A: All entrants will receive a complimentary 60th edition drawstring bag with their entry. This can be collected at Registration alongside your race bib.
Q: Will I get a finishers medal?
A: Participants in the First Credit Union 5.5km, Go Media 10km, half marathon, and full marathon distances will receive a 60th edition finishers medal.
Q: Do you offer discounts for students or seniors?
A: Yes. Seniors aged 65+ and students receive a 15% discount in any of the event distances. Students must be studying at a recognised New Zealand Primary, Secondary or Tertiary institution. NOTE: Student ID must be brought to race bib pick-up at Registration.
Q: What is a pin code, I don't have one of these?
A: PIN codes are used for discounts for members of Athletics New Zealand clubs, marathon partners and sponsors or promotions we may run from time to time. If you have not received a PIN code please ignore this section.
Q: Can I enter as a team?
A: Yes, there is the Go Media 10km Teams Event - with prizes for the best dressed team and the winning team! Gather a team of 5 runners and walkers for the 10km distance, and only pay for 4 team members. Click here for more information on registering your team.
Q: Are the courses certified?
A: Yes, the full marathon course is currently certified at 42.195km by Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and World Athletics (WA). The Runway5 5km course is also certified.
Q: Are there personal drinks for any of the events?
A: The full marathon only provides for personal drinks. Drink bottles must be delivered to the team at registration before 8:00pm on Friday 3rd May. Bottles must be clearly labelled with name, race number and station. Personalised bottles will be the first table at the following stations - No3 9.3km, No6 19.5km, No8 27.8km, No11 37.0km.
Q: Can I bring a pram/stroller?
A: Prams and buggies are not allowed on any of the courses (however spectators are welcome to bring prams/strollers).
Q: Are there wheelchair participation options for any events?
A: The Runway5 is an accessible course. For any questions, email us at marathon@athletics.org.nz
Q: Are there any Covid-19 provisions currently in place for the event?
A: The Red Stag Rotorua Marathon events will be conducted in accordance with all health orders in place at the time of the event, including any requirements of the New Zealand Government and/or, Ministry of Health.
Q: Do I need to be at the Prize Giving to win a spot prize?
A: All competitors entered in the First Credit Union 5.5km, Go Media 10km, half marathon, or full marathon need to be present at Prize Giving to win a spot prizes if their number is drawn and name announced.
Q: Do I need to be an Athletics NZ club member to enter the New Zealand Road Mile Championships?
A: Yes, you will need to be a member of an affiliated Athletics New Zealand club to receive a finishing place in the New Zealand Road Mile Championships. For any further questions, email us at competitions@athletics.org.nz