Saturday 3rd may 2025
full Marathon
(42km)
Enter NZ's Longest Running And Most Iconic Marathon Event. Red Stag Rotorua Marathon.
Standard pricing ends 31 March. Get your entries and save!
NZ’s Oldest and most cherished marathon is back in 2025, with a new and improved course, that starts and finishes overlooking the mighty Lake Rotoiti. Your finish line photo will look amazing!
Get ready to take on New Zealand’s most iconic marathon, where natural beauty meets electrifying excitement! The Rotorua Marathon isn’t just any 42.2km race—it’s a thrilling journey around the stunning shores of Lake Rotorua, through vibrant geothermal landscapes, and past the region’s world-famous natural wonders.
Breathtaking scenery - Breathe in the fresh lakeside air and soak up panoramic views of steaming geysers, rolling hills, and towering forests.
Unrivalled atmosphere and experience - Fun for all, and an expertly prepared race day will bring a festival-like atmosphere that will keep you motivated from start to finish.
Ready to Run? - Secure your spot now and prepare to make memories that last a lifetime. Embrace the spirit, the scenery, and the thrill of the legendary Rotorua Marathon—your story starts here!
Find out more at the Race Day page.
full marathon
key info
| Date | Saturday 3rd May 2025 |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee | From $149 including GST and processing fee - View All Entry Fees |
| Distance | 42.195km |
| Start Time - Runners | 8:00am |
| Start Time - Walkers | 8:00am |
| Start Line | Finish Line | Queens Drive, Government Gardens | Novotel Rotorua |
| Minimum Age | Full marathon entrants must be 18 years or older on race day to compete. |
| Time Limit | 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. Official event timing will cease at 5.00pm. 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. |
| Personalised Drink Bottle Stations | Drink bottles must be delivered to the team at registration before 8.00pm on Friday 2nd May. Bottles must be clearly labeled 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 |
| Spot Prizes | Spot Prizes can be won after picking up your event number at registration. Spot Prizes are randomly drawn from all event entrants at Prize Giving. You must be present to collect your prize. |
| Prize Money | The first male and female across the line will receive $1500 in Prize Money. For more information about age group, walkers and team prizes please see our Post Race page here. | Walkers | Walkers are welcome to enter the Full Marathon. Please adhere to all course cut off times and ensure walkers start at the back behind the runners and keep to the left at all times. | Merchandise | Pre-order your merchandise by 9th March 2025 to ensure you get your preferred size, style and colour. Choose between delivery before the event or pick up at the event. Once pre-sales close, production will begin, and orders will be shipped out in April. There will be a limited amount of stock available on the event weekend. Shop merchandise here. |
full marathon
Course Information
Aotearoa’s most challenging and rewarding marathon experience. Run or walk the journey of legends in this epic circumnavigation of Lake Rotorua. There is a new look course in 2025, and we can’t wait to see you there.
We’ve heard your feedback, and have made changes to improve the Red Stage Marathon experience. This year, the race starts in the historic Government Gardens. From there, participants will eye the majestic Mokoia Island in the distance use it as your personal compass. Finish in the vibe of the city next to the picturesque lakefront close to the famous Eat St precinct, at the Novotel Lakeside, where you can enjoy picturesque views and celebrate in style!
If you have any questions about the race at all, please contact our team today.
PACE RUNNERS
There will be pace groups to help you achieve your goal time in both the full and half marathon.
Pacers are there to maintain a consistent pace with the aim of finishing just under your target time.
More about Pace Groups.
NZ CHAMPIONSHIPS
All elite competitors are welcome to take part in the full marathon.
This edition of the Rotorua Marathon will double as the masters New Zealand Marathon Championships.
WALKERS