First Light Marathon 5-Day Package

Today you will arrive in beautiful Tairāwhiti Gisborne, where this coastal gem welcomes you with big smiles and sunny skies! 

In the evening, you can shake off the travel fatigue with an easy 5km run, followed by a casual gathering with drinks and finger food - your first chance to meet fellow runners and the organizers!

• Arrival in Gisborne
• Shakeout run (5km) guided by a local
• Post-run social with complimentary beer and snacks

Start the day with an unforgettable cultural experience - a traditional Māori pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) at a local marae. 

This sacred ritual includes songs, speeches, and the hongi (traditional greeting), immersing you in Māori traditions.

After a shared lunch at the marae, the afternoon is yours to explore Gisborne’s beaches, take a scenic hike or join one of our excursions. In the evening, we gather for a carb-filled pasta dinner to fuel up for race day!

• Pasta dinner in the evening with fellow runners
• Shared lunch at the marae
• Māori pōwhiri ceremony at a local marae
• Stingray Encounter in Tatapouri (optional)

The moment we've all been waiting for! As the sun rises over the Pacific, you'll set off on a breathtaking course along the rugged coastline and lush trails of Gisborne.

Whether you’re running the full marathon, half marathon, or fun run, this is your chance to be among the first in the world to greet the new day with every stride. 

If you’re still up for adventure, end the night under the stars with an optional astronomy tour. 

Prepare for the First Light Marathon, by thoroughly reading through the race information. 

• Marathon & Half Marathon starts at 05:40
• Fun Run start 06:10
• Gisborne Astro Tour (optional)

With the race behind you, it's time to explore! 

Today, you will have the day free to explore Gisborne at your own pace, or join one of our excursions - a scenic coastal hike at Tolaga Bay & Cooks Cove with one of our guides. This excursion takes you on a 5.8km walk to the famous Cooks Cove, where Captain Cook stopped in 1769.

In the evening, we will gather for a Celebration Dinner at a local winery, raising a glass to our incredible achievements in one of the world's most stunning locations.

• Day at your own leisure!
• Excursion: Hike Tolaga Bay & Cooks Cove (optional)
• Celebration Dinner at a local winery

Unfortunately, it's time to say goodbye to New Zealand - or continue your adventure with an exciting 6-day extension. Whether you’re heading home or exploring more of New Zealand, you will leave Gisborne with unforgettable memories and new running friends from around the world.

• Depart Gisborne or continue onto our thrilling Lakes & Legends 6-day extension.