First Light Marathon & Half

Pre-Race Extension: Hobbiton & Coastal Waters | 4 – Nights: January 14 – 22, 2026

Explore the magical Hobbiton from Lord of the Rings, the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, get lost in Hamilton Gardens and relax at Bay of Plenty.

 Monday, January 19 – Aukland to Cormandel

After breakfast it is time to travel south from Auckland, passing through its vibrant southern suburbs before ascending the Bombay Hills.  These hills mark the boundary of the Auckland region. At Pokeno, we turn east toward the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, a beloved getaway renowned for its golden sand beaches, lush native forests, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Upon arrival, check in to the Grand Mercure Puka Park, a secluded retreat nestled amid native bush. Spend the afternoon at leisure—relax on the pristine beaches or embark on an invigorating adventure such as the Pauanui Mountain Summit Trail. This rewarding hike ascends through dense forest to a 400-meter-high summit, offering panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands.

(Breakfast & dinner included)

 Tuesday, January 20 – Hike to Cathedral Cove & Visit Hot Water Beach

If you are familiar with the 2005 film Chronicles of Narnia, then you’ll already be somewhat familiar with Cathedral Cove. Enjoy a stunning hour-and-a-half return walk along the coastline to Cathedral Cove. As you emerge through the picture-perfect archway framing the beach, you’ll be greeted by stunning sea cliffs and pristine emerald waters. Other notable features include Te Hoho, a pinnacle of pumice breccia rock shaped like the prow of a ship, and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, a sanctuary for diverse marine life that thrives on its sandy flats and rocky reefs.  Experience lunch in Hahei (at own cost) before departing for Hot Water Beach.
Dig your own natural hot pool a few steps from the Pacific Ocean at world-famous Hot Water Beach (you can rent a shovel from the local café if you want). Naturally heated mineral water bubbles up from deep within the earth to emerge through golden sand at the appropriately named Hot Water Beach.  To find the hot water area, head towards the rocks at the southern end of the beach and here you can dig your own spa pool in the sand. The long sandy beach stretches north and curves east under a headland. Here you’ll find sheltered and secluded spots for quiet, sleepy sunbathing. There are also some cafés and galleries nearby.
We will again overnight at Grand Mercure Puka Park,

(Breakfast included)

 Wednesday, January 21 – Hobbiton & Bay of Plenty

Today we visit Middle earth. Our explorations will lead us to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire  that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The journey begins with a guided tour as we traverse the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the ten-acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton set was created. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and it is possible to see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth. Upon completion of your tour, we will enjoy a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn.

We continue over the Kaimai ranges into the picturesque Bay of Plenty.  Upon arrival, we will visit the town of Mt Maunganui, often referred to as The Mount by locals. The Mount is a laid-back suburb set on a peninsula surrounded by spectacular white sand beaches suitable for both swimming and surfing. Perhaps most iconic is the mountain Mount Maunganui, or Mauao, which rises 232 meters from the sea. The walking tracks to the top of this extinct volcano provide 360-degree views which span the entire length of the Bay of Plenty.
Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure at The Mount.  Relax on its glittering beaches, hike to the top of Mount Maunganui or go shopping in the many boutiques dotting The Mount’s main street. We will overnight at Trinity Wharf in Tauranga.

(Breakfast included)

Thursday, January 22 – GisborneAfter breakfast we will depart to Gisborne. Our route takes us along the east coast of the North Island where we will pass through the small towns of Matata and Thornton before reaching Whakatane. Whakatane is the heart of the eastern Bay of Plenty, as it aligns with its spectacular coastal shore and contains a rich cultural history. Here we will have time to purchase lunch before departing through the Waioeka Gorge. When we arrive at the sunny township of Gisborne we will check into our chosen accommodation.

(Breakfast included)

Post-Race Extension – Lakes & Legends | 5 – Nights: January 26 – 31, 2026

Monday, January 26 – Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Rotorua

Today, we will travel north through the scenic Waioeka Gorge before reaching Opotiki, and the lovely beach town of Ohope. From Whakatane, we’ll travel along the Matata Straights before turning inland to arrive at Rotorua.

Due to its unique thermal and volcanic landscape and rich Māori culture, Rotorua is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most popular destinations. The town forms part of the geologically active “Pacific Ring of Fire,” and the bubbling thermal activity just below Earth’s crust is evident throughout the city, from natural hot springs to bubbling mud pools.

We will visit Lake Tikitapu. Famous for its striking colour, the lake is known as “Blue Lake” by the locals. There is an easy 1,5 hour walk the lake that offers good views of both Lake Tikitapu and the nearby Green Lake, Rotokakahi.
The whole group will meet in the afternoon for a special Polynesian Spa experience. We’ll drive by coach out to Lake Spa, a deluxe hot mineral bathing and relaxation area that overlooks Lake Rotorua. Enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in the four alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (from 36 ̊C to 42 ̊C). Sink into the serene environment as the sounds of waterfalls and reflections of the glistening water in the grotto relax you completely.

In the evening, experience the warmth of the Māori people with a night of ceremonial rituals and storytelling. We will enter a replica pre-European Maori village, where we will see the hangi pit opened and then enter the ancestral Meeting House to enjoy a powerful cultural performance featuring tribal songs, myths, legends, and dance, including the vigorous haka. We will also enjoy a hangi buffet dinner, traditionally cooked in an earth oven. After dinner, we’ll bid our hosts farewell and return to our accommodation for tonight and the next night, Sudima Hotel Rotorua

( Hangi buffet dinner included)

Tuesday, January 27 – Rotorua

This morning, after breakfast, guests are free to choose what they would like to do. We will be offering two optional excursions: zip-lining and river rafting (it’s possible to join both)

Zip-lining: Explore the native forest on a 1.2 km network of Rotorua ziplines, swing bridges, and treetop platforms. Travel on 6 ziplines that total more than 650 meters. The highlight is the jaw-dropping, 220-meter Tui Son zipline that starts 22 meters up a 1000-year-old tree. Additionally, there are two treetop swing bridges – the longest suspended a full 50 meters! Treetop platforms are located throughout to allow participants to pause and absorb the magic of the environment. Since 2012, the zip-line operators have worked to restore the native forest in which they operate. Your participation ensures that the forest is flourishing in a mutually beneficial relationship.

River rafting:  Participants can experience the thrills and spills of the mighty Kaituna River and take on the world-famous Tutea Falls. Standing at 7 meters tall, the falls are the highest commercially rafted waterfall. Together with your expert guide, your team will enjoy an action-packed 50-minute ride through 14 rapids as the river winds its way through a jungle canyon. No prior experience is necessary, as participants will receive full and comprehensive training beforehand. All you need is a reasonable level of fitness, a sense of fun and adventure, swimwear and a towel.

Later in the evening, we’ll travel out to Redwoods Nightlights, a 700-meter-long eco-tourism walking experience in the heart of Rotorua’s Redwood Forest. The tour consists of a series of 28 suspension bridges and 27 majestic Redwood trees that are more than 118 years old. The walk also features 30 exquisite lanterns floating between 9-20 meters above the forest floor, designed by world-renowned designer and sustainability champion David Trubridge. Upon completion of the tour, we will return to the Hotel for dinner.

(Breakfast & dinner included)

Wednesday, January 28. Jan: Rotorua to Taupo

After breakfast, we’ll begin with a guided two hour walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Heading downhill, we’ll pass through some of the youngest eco-systems in the world as we view a wide variety of geothermal activity, native plants, and birdlife. See Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot water spring, as well as the mysterious and dramatic Inferno Crater and its beautiful blue hot lake. When we reach Lake Rotomahana, we’ll join a 45-minute boat trip to see the Steaming Cliffs, fumaroles, lake edge geysers, unusual thermal plants, and the site of the Pink and White Terraces that were destroyed in the Mt. Tarawera eruption.

After the boat ride, we’ll be shuttled back to the car park, where we’ll reboard the coach and travel south through Kaingaroa Forest plantation and the Wairakei Steam fields. Enjoy a stop at the Huka Falls, where the clear waters of the Waikato River gush through a narrow canyon. We’ll continue around the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, to our accommodation for the next two nights, Suncourt Hotel, Taupo, where we’ll settle in and rest in preparation for tomorrow’s challenge: the Tongariro Crossing.

(Breakfast included)

Thursday, January 29 – The Tongariro Crossing

This morning, a short drive will bring us to the trailhead of The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, is 12 miles of pure, rugged Aotearoa New Zealand beauty. The trek is considered the best one-day walk in the country and is consistently ranked in the Top 10 one-day walks in the world. The Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage site – rich in both cultural identity as well as breathtaking natural scenery.

Our trail leads up to the saddle between Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro and then diverts over Mount Tongariro. Fans of Lord of the Rings might recognize Mount Ngauruhoe as Mount Doom itself! At the top of the pass, in the presence of two active volcanoes, we’ll experience some of the National Park’s special gifts. A cold mountain spring, an active crater, emerald lakes, and hot springs combine to make this a challenging and deeply rewarding experience.

Total walking time is around 7 hours, including stops. No alpine experience is required, and we will be accompanied by a guide.

Please Note: Weather in NZ is extremely changeable and difficult to forecast accurately. The operator has the right to cancel an adventure should they consider the weather to cause too high of a risk for guests.  Weather will be deemed unsafe if, on the morning of the trip, there is consistently 10mm or more of rain, combined with wind gusts of 70km/hr or higher forecasted for the 6-hour period starting at the beginning of the tour.  If this occurs, an alternate route with similar topography will be recommended.

(Breakfast and boxed lunch included)

Friday, January 30 – Taupo to Auckland

This morning, we’ll take it easy as we travel north to Waitomo where we join a guided tour into the Ruakuri Cave.  The spiral entranceway is a remarkable feat of modern engineering and design as well as being a major feature of the recent redevelopment, providing a dramatic introduction to the cave.  The guided tour leads down the large spiral walkway, gently deeper and deeper into the ground until the bottom is reached.  Pass through the specially constructed tunnel called The Drum Entrance and into the cave.  Journey down marveling at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glow-worms.  Winding passageways, vast echoing caverns and deep crevices bring a different energy and character to Ruakuri Cave.

After the tour, we’ll stop for an included lunch at a local cafe before travelling north yet again, through rolling countryside into Hamilton City, Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest inland city. Then continue north, following the Waikato River, over Bombay Hills and into Auckland City. Auckland is built atop 50 extinct volcanoes – while most of them appear either as small, green hilltop or are completely removed, the three largest – Mount Albert, Mount Eden, and One Tree Hill – stand proudly over the landscape.

We’ll spend the night at Grand Millenium Hotel Auckland City.

(Breakfast & lunch included)

Saturday, January 31 – Farewell Aotearoa New Zealand!

After breakfast at our hotel, enjoy one last day in Auckland before your flight home or your next destination.  Taxis to the airport are available from the hotel (airport transfer not provided).

(Breakfast included)

Optional Excursions:

Stingray Encounter | January 23 (2.5 hours)

Of all the ways to experience the magical marine environment around Tairāwhiti Gisborne, feeding the stingrays on a reef ecology tour is one of the most memorable.

After a short bus ride, participants will be fitted with waders, and we will walk the reef at low tide.  Observe and interact with Stingrays, Eagle Rays, Kingfish, and various other reef dwellers. The marine life on the reef is not enclosed, so all creatures are free to come and go. Guides will provide information on the reef’s inhabitants, known as the Tamariki (Children) of Tangaroa, the Maori god of the sea. We’ll learn about the different species. the local legends of Tairāwhiti Gisborne, and gain insight into some of the methods once used by the Maori to manage their natural resources.

Inclusions:

• Transport t/from Tatopouri Bay
• Guided reef ecology tour
• Waders

Gisborne Astro Tour | January 24 (2 hours)

The Southern Cross, Centaurus, and Carina are just a few of the constellations awaiting you in the Southern Hemisphere. On this tour, we’ll drive to a quiet, rural location just outside of Tairāwhiti Gisborne. There, we’ll meet our astronomical guide and be given a short health/safety briefing.

There will be 6-7 telescopes set up, and participants can circulate around to see the various targets, all while our informed astronomer answers your questions. The Gisborne Astro Tours are the first and only astro tour on the east coast of Aotearoa New Zealand, and stargazers come from afar to revel in the glorious dark skies of the Land of the Long White Cloud. Let the tranquil environment and knowledgeable guide be your gateway to the stars.

Inclusions:

• Transport t/from Patutahi
• Guided astro tour including an inspiring, easy to understand astronomy presentation
• View rare celestial targets only seen from Aotearoa New Zealand’s latitude

Tolaga Bay and hike to Cooks Cove | January 25 (5 hours)

This excursion will begin with a 1-hour drive north of Tairāwhiti Gisborne to Tolaga Bay, a small town, at 660m, boasts the longest concrete wharf in the country. Along the bay is a path that leads to Cooks Cove, where Captain James Cook stopped in 1769 as part of his circumnavigation of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Information panels along the walkway tell the story of Cook and his crew’s visit to Cooks Cove (Opoutama), the history of local iwi Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, and the excavation of an archeological site at Opoutama, first occupied by Māori. You’ll also be able to explore a hole in the wall, called Te Kotere o te Whenua, or, if you fancy a swim, safely take a dip in the cove.

The pathway is an out-and-back 3.8 mile walk that with stops will take approximately 2.5 hours. Although the path is generally rated as easy, there is some hill climbing that requires a moderate level of fitness. Good, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Inclusions:

• Transportation to/from Tologa Bay

Rafting Excursion | January 27 (50 mins of rafting + training)

Participants will experience the thrills and spills of the mighty Kaituna River and take on the world-famous Tutea Falls. Standing at 7 meters tall, the falls are the highest commercially rafted waterfall. Together with your expert guide, your team will enjoy an action-packed 50-minute ride through 14 rapids as the river winds its way through a jungle canyon. No prior experience is necessary, as participants will receive full and comprehensive training beforehand. All you need is a reasonable level of fitness, a sense of fun and adventure, swimwear, and a towel.

Inclusions:

• Transportation
• Safety gear

Zip-lining Excursion | January 27

Explore the native forest on a 1,2km network of Rotorua ziplines, swing bridges, and treetop platforms. In total, there are 6 ziplines that total more than 650 meters. The highlight is the jaw-dropping, 220-meter Tui Son zipline that departs from 22 meters up a 1000-year-old tree. There are also two treetop swing bridges – the longest suspended a full 50 meters! The treetop platforms are located at varying platforms to allow participants to pause and absorb the magic of the environment. Since 2012, the zip-lining operators have been working to restore the native forest in which they operate. With the help of every customer, the forest is flourishing in a mutually beneficial relationship. Join us and forget about the real world for a few hours!

Inclusions:

• Transportation
• Safety gear

First Light Tour | Four-Night Package: January 22 – 26, 2026

Features:

• Four nights’ accommodation in Tairāwhiti Gisborne
• Guided shakeout run with beer & fingerfood
• Pōwhiri (Māori welcome) lunch
• Pasta Dinner
• Celebration Dinner
• Transportation per itinerary

Race Entry:

• Marathon: $135
• Half-Marathon: $85
• Fun Run: $55

Race Entry Includes:

• First Light Marathon T-shirt from Craft
• Exclusive Medal
• Experienced medical personnel
• Timing & results
• Finish line refreshments
• Manned water & supply stations along the route

Not Included:

• Transportation to/from your hotel in Tairāwhiti Gisborne
• Race entry – Price TBC
• Breakfast & other meals not mentioned in itinerary
• Optional excursions/extension
• Travel & health insurance
• Beverages
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned under “inclusions”

Pre-Race Extension: Hobbiton & Bay of Plenty | Four-Night Package: January 18 – 22, 2026

Features:

• 1 nights’ accommodation in Auckland
• 3 nights’ accommodation on route to Gisborne
• City tour in Auckland
• Visit to Hamilton Gardens
• Hobbiton Tour
• Albatros Tour Leader
• Meals as stated in itinerary
• Transportation as stated in itinerary

Not Included:

• Personal expenses or gratuities
• Meals not mentioned in itinerary
• Beverages
• Health/travel insurance
• Anything else not mentioned under “Inclusions”

Post-Race Extension: Lakes & Legends | Five-Night Package: January 26 – 31, 2026

Features:

• Meals as stated in itinerary
• Transportation as stated in itinerary
• Polynesian Spa experience
• Redwoods Nightlights tour
• 5-Nights’ accommodation
• Guide across Tongariro Crossing
• Ruakuri Cave guided tour

Not Included:

• Optional excursions
• Personal expenses or gratuities
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages
• Health/travel insurance
• Anything else not mentioned under “Inclusions”

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents
Travel Insurance for Canadian Residents

Rates (all prices are per person in US dollars)

Race Date: January 24, 2026

Race Time: Both the marathon and half-marathon begin at 5:40 AM and end at 1:40 PM.  There is an 8-hour cut off time for both the Marathon & the half-marathon.  The 6 km Fun Run will start at 7:10 AM.

• Marathon – 4 hour cut off time halfway at the 13.1 mile/21km mark
• Runners not reaching this point before the cut off time will be removed from the course

Course: All runners will begin on the boardwalk next to Midway Surf Club. Both the marathon and half-marathon race start just before sunrise and the Fun Run starts at 7:10 AM. Participants will follow the boardwalk out of Tairāwhiti Gisborne until the first hills are reached. When marathon and half-marathon crest the first hill, they’ll be rewarded with a view of the sun slowly rising out over the Pacific Ocean. You will be among the first people in the world to greet the new day as the sun illuminates the landscape around you. There is a series of short, steep hills once runners are out of the city. The race is a mix of single-track trails, roads, and off-road surfaces. Half-marathon runners will loop through the hills back toward the city, while marathon runners head out to Wainui Beach for roughly two kilometers through the sand next to the sparkling waves. Then, marathon runners will head back to the hills to tackle even more challenging climbs until they once again reach Tairāwhiti Gisborne.

All distances will finish the race on the same boardwalk where the race began, running onto Midway Surf Club for some well-deserved rest and refreshments.

Logistics: The route will be well-marked with many small flags, arrows, and kilometer signs. Water stations will be positioned along the route at approximately every 4 kilometers. Some stations will also serve energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels. Personal supplies can be deposited at the start/finish area in a staffed bag drop area. There will be toilets and post-race refreshments in the start/finish area as well.

A detailed route map that illustrates all aid stations can be found HERE.

Temperature: January is summertime in the southern hemisphere. Summer is the driest season in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, but the chance of rain is still approximately 20% each day. Daytime temperatures will be warm and humid, on average around 24°C / 75°F.

Aotearoa New Zealand has a largely temperate climate. Since most of the country lies close to the coast, it has mild temperatures all year-round, abundant sunshine, and moderately high rainfall. Although Aotearoa New Zealand does not have a large temperature range, weather can change unexpectedly, so it is important to be prepared for sudden changes, especially out in nature. Additionally, it can feel much colder than it looks when the sun goes down, so a jacket is a good idea even in the summer.

Entry Fee:

• Marathon: $135
• Half-Marathon: $85
• Fun Run: $55

Time Limit: The Marathon & Half-Marathon course time limit is eight (8) hours.  It starts at 5:40 AM and finishes at 1:40 PM.

Difficulty: A challenging course with steep hills and different terrain (sand, pavement, trail)