{"id":5380,"date":"2023-03-29T16:53:11","date_gmt":"2023-03-29T21:53:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/first-light-marathon\/"},"modified":"2026-05-19T16:06:48","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T20:06:48","slug":"first-light-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/first-light-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"First Light Marathon & Half"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":6966,"template":"","event_types":[6],"event_locations":[243,37],"event_distances":[244,11,12],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[17],"class_list":["post-5380","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure","event_locations-new-zealand","event_locations-oceania","event_distances-adventure","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-winter"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":6966,"event_logo":5423,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"available","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:kaitlyn.roukey@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Book Now","url":"https:\/\/bookingus.marathontours.com\/experience\/first-light-marathon-half-marathon-6k-2027\/82","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel\u2019s Great Wall Packages please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nNew Zealand\u2019s north Island will greet you with warmth and the sun\u2019s morning rays at First Light Marathon 2027! <\/strong>\r\n\r\nJoin us for an incredible cultural experience and adventure at the First Light Marathon in Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne, Aotearoa New Zealand!\r\n\r\nShort, steep hills will greet your feet and you may get sand in your shoes along the pristine beaches, but you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the world\u2019s first sunrise over the Pacific Ocean on Race Day!\r\n\r\nHome to countless wineries, excellent food, and world class beaches, your stay in Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne, also known as the \u201cChardonnay Capital\u201d of Aotearoa New Zealand, will delight you in many ways.\u00a0\u00a0 Grab a surfboard and catch a wave, don waders and explore the magical underwater reefs around Gisborne or learn about the southern hemisphere\u2019s night sky through telescopes with an astronomer by your side; these are only a few of the optional activities offered on this trip.\r\n\r\nStart your adventure early in Auckland and spend four delightful days overland to Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne with stops at the award-winning Hamilton Gardens and Middle earth, home to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.\u00a0 Or consider extending your trip and hike the famed Tongariro Alpine Crossing, 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.\r\n\r\nNew Zealand culture is steeped in Maori tradition and you will leave this country with an appreciation for the practices of the Maori people that New Zealand honors and keeps alive through ritual, song, gatherings and celebrations.","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Breakfast and lunch as mentioned in itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":""},"transfers":{"detail":"","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":"Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Extensions Available"},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":"Four nights' accommodation"},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Marathon, Half-Marathon, or Fun Run Entry"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Celebration Dinner","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Additional tours and excursions available"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":""},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":""}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":9833},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":9834},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Yk36GOWe1Tc"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":9832},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":9835},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":9831}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"First Light Package","package_duration":"4 Nights","package_dates":"January 21 - 25, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Thursday, January 21","day_content":"Arrive to Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne (GIS) either by a domestic flight (1 hour from Auckland) or by bus (6-7 hours from Auckland). Alternatively, guests might consider renting a car.\u00a0 Consider joining our pre-tour starting in Auckland and we will take you to Gisborne overland in four fun-filled days.\r\n\r\nA short shakeout run at 6:00 PM guided by a local runner will set off for 3.5 miles at a relaxed pace.\u00a0 After the run, we'll gather for complimentary beer and some finger foods, where you can get to know your fellow marathon participants, meet the organizers and raise a glass to the beginning of our Aotearoa New Zealand adventure.\r\n\r\n(Finger food after shake-out run included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, January 22","day_content":"Early this morning, we offer an optional excursion, \"Stingray Encounter,\" in Tatapouri. During this excursion, you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with stingrays and other reef dwellers on a reef ecology tour. We will return to the hotel in time for the rest of the day's activities.\r\n\r\nAll participants will get together in the late morning for a traditional M\u0101ori welcome ceremony, known as a p\u014dwhiri. A p\u014dwhiri is a special ritual of encounter and the perfect way for us to experience M\u0101ori traditions. It usually takes place at the M\u0101ori meeting grounds, called a marae. The ceremony involves singing, dancing and speeches. \u00a0After the ceremony, we will enjoy lunch at the marae.\r\n\r\nThe rest of the afternoon is yours to soak in the cultural attractions of the city, hit the beaches, or explore the hiking paths. In the evening, all participants will meet to enjoy a pasta dinner.\r\n\r\n(Lunch & pasta dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, January 23 - Race Day!","day_content":"Race Day!<\/strong> After an early breakfast at the hotel (not included), a short walk takes you to the start line of your race.\u00a0 As the first light of day crests the horizon, you'll set off to the sound of traditional music and excited locals. Both the marathon and half-marathon begin at 5:40 AM and end at 1:40 PM.\u00a0 The 6 km Fun Run will start at 6:10 AM.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, meet other runners at The Wharf Bar & Grill and share race adventure over an ice-cold beer. The Wharf has beautiful views Gisborne Inner Harbor. Later in the evening, we offer an optional excursion, \"Gisborne Astro Tours,\" which will introduce you to the celestial wonders of the Southern Hemisphere. An accomplished astronomer will be your guide to the starry constellations.\r\n\r\n(Light lunch at the finish line included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, January 24","day_content":"Today, explore Gisborne at your own pace, or opt to join one of our two exciting excursions below:\r\n\r\nWalking tour of Tolaga Bay and Cooks Cove: Cooks Cove is named after Captain James Cook, who stopped here in 1769 during his circumnavigation of New Zealand.\r\n\r\nIn the late afternoon all participants will be driven out to a local winery to celebrate yesterday\u2019s achievements together with a festive dinner.\r\n\r\n(Celebration Dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, January 25","day_content":"Sadly, it is time to say goodbye to Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne.\u00a0 After check-out, make your way to the airport or consider joining us for an exciting 5-Night extension!\r\n\r\n(No meals included)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"

Pre-Race Extension: Hobbiton & Coastal Waters | 4 \u2013 Nights: January 17 \u2013 21, 2027<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nExplore the magical Hobbiton from Lord of the Rings, the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, get lost in Hamilton Gardens and relax at Bay of Plenty.\r\n\r\nSunday, January 17 \u2013 Welcome to Auckland!\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nArrive to Auckland today and make your way to the Grand Millenium, Auckland.\u00a0 At 2:00 PM, join our guided bus tour through the city and the cozy suburbs of Parnell, home to quaint, well-restored houses, small restaurants, and galleries. We will visit the renowned Bastion Point for panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf.\u00a0 Upon return to our hotel, the evening is at leisure for you to explore the wonders of Auckland further on your own.\u00a0 Make your way to the port and choose from several excellent eating establishments.\r\n\r\n(No meals included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u00a0Monday, January 18 \u2013 Aukland to Cormandel<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast it is time to travel south from Auckland, passing through its vibrant southern suburbs before ascending the Bombay Hills.\u00a0 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.\r\n\r\nUpon arrival, check in to the\u00a0Grand Mercure Puka Park,<\/a>\u00a0a secluded retreat nestled amid native bush. Spend the afternoon at leisure\u2014relax 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.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u00a0Tuesday, January 19 \u2013 Hike to Cathedral Cove & Visit Hot Water Beach <\/strong>\r\n\r\nIf you are familiar with the 2005 film Chronicles of Narnia, then you\u2019ll 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. \u00a0Experience lunch in Hahei (at own cost) before departing for Hot Water Beach.\r\nDig 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 caf\u00e9 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. \u00a0To 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 caf\u00e9s and galleries nearby.\r\nWe will again overnight at\u00a0Grand Mercure Puka Park,<\/a>\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u00a0Wednesday, January 20 \u2013 Hobbiton & Bay of Plenty<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday we visit Middle earth. Our explorations will lead us to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire \u00a0that 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.\r\n\r\nWe continue over the Kaimai ranges into the picturesque Bay of Plenty. \u00a0Upon 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.\r\nEnjoy the afternoon at your leisure at The Mount.\u00a0 Relax on its glittering beaches, hike to the top of Mount Maunganui or go shopping in the many boutiques dotting The Mount\u2019s main street. We will overnight at\u00a0Trinity Wharf in Tauranga.<\/a>\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nThursday, January 21 - Gisborne <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter 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.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n

Post-Race Extension \u2013 Lakes & Legends | 5 \u2013 Nights: January 25 \u2013 30, 2027<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nMonday, January 25 \u2013 Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne to Rotorua<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday, we will travel north through the scenic Waioeka Gorge before reaching Opotiki, and the lovely beach town of Ohope. From Whakatane, we\u2019ll travel along the Matata Straights before turning inland to arrive at Rotorua.\r\n\r\nDue to its unique thermal and volcanic landscape and rich M\u0101ori culture, Rotorua is one of Aotearoa New Zealand\u2019s most popular destinations. The town forms part of the geologically active \u201cPacific Ring of Fire,\u201d and the bubbling thermal activity just below Earth\u2019s crust is evident throughout the city, from natural hot springs to bubbling mud pools.\r\n\r\nWe 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.\r\n\r\nThe 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 \u030aC to 42 \u030aC). Sink into the serene environment as the sounds of waterfalls and reflections of the glistening water in the grotto relax you completely.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, experience the warmth of the M\u0101ori 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,\u00a0Sudima Hotel Rotorua<\/a>\r\n\r\n( Hangi buffet dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nTuesday, January 26 \u2013 Rotorua<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis 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\u2019s possible to join both)\r\n\r\nZip-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 \u2013 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.\r\n\r\nRiver rafting: \u00a0Participants 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.\r\n\r\nLater in the evening, we\u2019ll travel out to Redwoods Nightlights, a 700-meter-long eco-tourism walking experience in the heart of Rotorua\u2019s 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.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nWednesday, January 27. Jan: Rotorua to Taupo<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we\u2019ll begin with a guided two hour walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Heading downhill, we\u2019ll 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\u2019s 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\u2019ll 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.\r\n\r\nAfter the boat ride, we\u2019ll be shuttled back to the car park, where we\u2019ll 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\u2019ll continue around the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand\u2019s largest lake, to our accommodation for the next two nights, Suncourt Hotel, Taupo, where we\u2019ll settle in and rest in preparation for tomorrow\u2019s challenge: the Tongariro Crossing.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nThursday, January 28 \u2013 The Tongariro Crossing<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis 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 \u2013 rich in both cultural identity as well as breathtaking natural scenery.\r\n\r\nOur 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\u2019ll experience some of the National Park\u2019s special gifts. A cold mountain spring, an active crater, emerald lakes, and hot springs combine to make this a challenging and deeply rewarding experience.\r\n\r\nTotal walking time is around 7 hours, including stops. No alpine experience is required, and we will be accompanied by a guide.\r\n\r\nPlease Note:<\/strong>\u00a0Weather 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.\u00a0 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.\u00a0 If this occurs, an alternate route with similar topography will be recommended.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast and boxed lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nFriday, January 29 \u2013 Taupo to Auckland<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis morning, we'll take it easy as we travel north to Waitomo where we join a guided tour into the Ruakuri Cave. \u00a0The 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. \u00a0The guided tour leads down the large spiral walkway, gently deeper and deeper into the ground until the bottom is reached. \u00a0Pass through the specially constructed tunnel called The Drum Entrance and into the cave. \u00a0Journey down marvelling 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. \u00a0Winding passageways, vast echoing caverns and deep crevices bring a different energy and character to Ruakuri Cave.\r\n\r\nAfter 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\u00a0small, green hilltop or are completely removed, the three largest - Mount Albert, Mount Eden, and One Tree Hill - stand proudly over the landscape.\r\n\r\nWe\u2019ll spend the night at Grand Millenium Hotel Auckland City.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nSaturday, January 30 \u2013 Farewell Aotearoa New Zealand!<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast at our hotel, enjoy one last day in Auckland before your flight home or your next destination.\u00a0 Taxis to the airport are available from the hotel\u00a0(airport transfer not provided).<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n

Optional Excursions:<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nStingray Encounter | January 22 (2.5 hours)<\/strong>\r\n\r\nOf all the ways to experience the magical marine environment around Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne, feeding the stingrays on a reef ecology tour is one of the most memorable.\r\n\r\nAfter a short bus ride, participants will be fitted with waders, and we will walk the reef at low tide.\u00a0 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\u2019s inhabitants, known as the Tamariki (Children) of Tangaroa, the Maori god of the sea. We\u2019ll learn about the different species. the local legends of Tair\u0101whiti Gisborne, and gain insight into some of the methods once used by the Maori to manage their natural resources.\r\n\r\nInclusions:\r\n