Soaring to the Finish Line: Your Ultimate Guide to the Runway 5km at the Red Stag Rotorua Marathon
Every runner dreams of that weightless feeling of flying - the wind beneath your wings, the thrill of your per kilometre speed, the sheer joy of moving your body. At the Runway 5km event, part of the Red Stag Rotorua Marathon, you get to experience just that—on the Rotorua Airport runway!
A 5km race is perfect for fast paced flights of fancy. Whether you're a seasoned athlete chasing a new and memorable personal best or a first-time 5km runner looking for a fun and unforgettable experience, this unique race promises an exhilarating ride. What’s more, you can channel your inner nocturnal Kiwi and have this 5km experience at night!
With the Mokoia Island Trust as the event’s charity partner, there’s an extra special reason to take flight. Mokoia Island is home to over 30 breeding pairs of Kiwi, a bird that may not fly but certainly knows how to move with purpose. Just like the Kiwi, you’ll be setting out on your own runway adventure—so why not have some fun and see how fast you can fly round the course?
Training for Takeoff
The excitement starts long before race day. Preparing for a 5km run doesn’t have to be a grind—it can be an adventure in itself! Here are some fun ways to get race-ready:
“Catching Flights” Training: Try interval training where you “rush” to an imaginary boarding gate. Sprint for 30 seconds, then walk for 30 seconds—repeat! It’s great for building speed and endurance.
Plane Watching Runs: Head to an airport observation deck or a park near the runway and let the sight of real planes taking off inspire your own sprinting form.
Kiwi-Inspired Endurance: Kiwi birds may not fly, but they’re excellent at moving through the bush and navigating the dark. Take a trail run and imagine you’re on Mokoia Island, quietly navigating the paths like these incredible birds. Make sure you do some of your training at night so you can prepare for what changes you may need to make to your daytime routine to enable your best evening performance.
Race Day: Prepare for Takeoff
The day of the Runway 5km is filled with excitement. The sun rises over Rotorua, casting a golden glow on the tarmac. As evening descends, you lace up your running shoes, you can almost hear the distant roar of jet engines—a reminder that today, you're here to soar!
Here’s how to make the most of your race day:
Dress the Part: Why not embrace the theme and wear a pilot's cap, a flight attendant’s scarf, or even a pair of wings? (Bonus points for running in a Kiwi costume!)
Warm-Up Like a Plane: Start with some “taxiing” (light jogging), followed by dynamic stretches. Think of arm circles as propeller spins and leg swings as takeoff preparations.
Find Your Flight Crew: Whether you’re running solo or with friends, the Runway 5km is all about community and fun. High-five your fellow runners, exchange smiles, and enjoy the electric atmosphere.
Nighttime tech: head lamps, glo sticks, high vis gear are practical and fun for an evening event like this.
Soar to the Finish Line: When you hit the final stretch, spread your arms like wings and pretend you’re taking flight! Feel the rush of air, the smoothness of the tarmac beneath your feet, and that incredible sense of speed.
Beyond the Run: Supporting Kiwi Conservation
The Runway 5km isn’t just about personal bests—it’s also about giving back. Every step you take helps support the Mokoia Island Trust and its efforts to protect the local Kiwi population. After the race, consider:
Visiting Mokoia Island: Take a guided tour and see firsthand the incredible conservation work happening to protect Kiwi and other native species.
Donating or Volunteering: Contribute to Kiwi conservation by supporting ongoing habitat restoration and predator control efforts.
Sharing the Mission: Use your race day photos and stories to raise awareness about Mokoia Island’s wildlife.
The Post-Race Celebration
After you've crossed the finish line (and maybe even hit a new PB!), it's time to think about how you’ll enjoy Rotorua’s hospitality the next day.
Refuel Like a First-Class Passenger: Grab a coffee and a post-run breakfast at one of Rotorua’s fantastic local cafés.
Soak Those Wings: Relax your tired muscles in the famous geothermal hot pools and reflect on your race experience.
Explore More: Rotorua is packed with adventure—try ziplining, mountain biking, or a lakeside stroll to keep the fun going.
Final Boarding Call
The Runway 5km at the Red Stag Rotorua Marathon is more than just a race—it’s an experience like no other. Whether you're sprinting for a personal best or simply enjoying a fun run with friends and family, this event has it all - even the satisfaction of supporting a great cause.
So, lace up your running shoes, embrace your inner Kiwi, and get ready to take flight!