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First Light Marathon
28 Jan 2023
28 Jan 2023
The definitive source for all things race-related: everything you need to know before, during, and after race day.
Race Information
Find all the important practical information about the race.
Route & Elevation
Familiarize yourself with the race's elevation profile and route.
Results
Check here for current and past years race results.
Event logo
The story behind the unique design
Like all Albatros Adventure Marathons, the First Light Marathon is designed to be more than just a race. It's also about enjoying time together with family, friends and other running-minded spirits and immersing yourself in a new culture. Spectators welcome!
In order to register for First Light Marathon, you must sign up for one of the tour packages.
Ways to Enter
Get details on international and local entrance options.
Accommodation
Check out the hotel options for your stay.
Packages
First Light Marathon 2023: 5-day package
26 - 30 Jan | 5 days | 1390 NZD
4 nights in Tairāwhiti Gisborne
First Light Marathon 2023
28 - 28 Jan | 1 days | 100 NZD
Residents of Aotearoa New Zealand
Travel partners
The most comprehensive list of travel partners who offer First Light Marathon packages with flights.
Aotearoa New Zealand is a land of many wonders. From dazzling night skies to killer surf to the rich, indigenous Māori culture, come experience all that the country has to offer.
The First Light Marathon is more than just a marathon - it's a journey through Aotearoa New Zealand! The adventurous can get up-close-and-personal with stingrays, catch some waves on a surf lesson, or visit the sacred mountain, Maunga Hikuranga. For those who prefer a more relaxed vacation, renowned beaches and world-class wineries beckon.
Excursions
Tolaga Bay
29 Jan | 5 hours | 70 NZD
Hike Cooks Cove Walkway and learn the history of local iwi Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti
Maunga Hikurangi
29 Jan | 8 hours | 350 NZD
Embark on a tour to the sacred mountain that is the first to greet the sun each day
Gisborne Astro Tours
26 Jan | 2 hours | 90 NZD
Marvel at the celestial wonders of the Southern Hemisphere.
Stingray Encounter
27 Jan | 2.5 hours | 115 NZD
Take a reef ecology tour and meet Stingrays, Eagle Rays, and other reef dwellers.
Extensions
Lakes and Legends
30 - 4 Feb | 6 days | 2790 NZD
Trek the Tongariro Pass, relax in a Polynesian spa, and marvel at cavernous glowworms on this exciting tour.
From history and culture to cuisine and customs, get to know to Aotearoa New Zealand.
Travel to New Zealand
Dive deep into New Zealand - read about its history, culture, geography, and, of course, the ice.
Map of New Zealand
Take a look at a map highlighting our destinations in New Zealand.
Destination Guide
Find short and sweet answers to help you travel in Aotearoa New Zealand - everything from currency to language and more.
Climate & Weather in New Zealand
Check out what weather to expect on race day, as well as average weather in Gisborne and Wellington.
Photos of New Zealand
Browse a collection of spectacular photos from our New Zealand destinations.
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Blog
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Media Resources
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Partners & Sponsors
Read here about our wonderful sponsors, partners, and suppliers - and how you can be one of them.
First Light Marathon 2023
Residents of Aotearoa New Zealand
28-28 Jan
1 days
100 NZD
Registration closed see you in 2024
The First Light Marathon & Half marathon takes place in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, which is known for being the first city in the world to see the sun each day. Its spectacular coastline and the steep green hills provide a magical backdrop to this unique race. Runners will herald in the sunrise as they crest the many hills and race along the white sand beach.
If you are looking to enjoy an extended holiday in Tairāwhiti Gisborne it is certainly possible to join the 5-day accommodation package.
Marathon: 175 NZD
Half marathon: 100 NZD
Itinerary
The itinerary is detailed below. This is what you'll be doing during your stay!
28 January 2023 Race Day
| 28 January 2023 | Race Day |
Today's the big day!
After an early breakfast at the hotel, you will make your way to the start line at Waikan, just a short walk away. As the first light of day crests the horizon, you'll set off with music and excitement thrumming through your body.
Both the marathon and half-marathon begin at 05:30. Both races will end at 13:30.
In the evening you can meet other runners at Sunshine Brewery, a boutique brewery from the East Coast, and share your winnings and impressions of today’s run while tasting local top quality beer. The first beer is on us.
29 January 2023 Optional Celebration Dinner
| 29 January 2023 | Optional Celebration Dinner |
In the evening it's possible to join all the international participants at the celebration dinner at a local vineyard. Together, we'll toast our accomplishments and enjoy a delicious meal while the sun sets over the vineyard.
Price: 100 NZD
Price includes: Welcome drink, dinner and transfer from the city center to the vineyard and back.
Price information
Have a look at package prices below.
Race Entry
Marathon: NZD 175
Half-Marathon: NZD 100
Race entry includes:
- Exclusive First Light Marathon T-shirt
- Medal
- Experienced medical personnel from Peak Safety
- Timing and results
- Finish line refreshments
- Manned water and supply stations along the route
Important Info
Questions about New Zealand?
For more detals about the race, check out our Race Information
For more information about the course, check out Route & Elevation
Race Package Pickup
The goodie bag can be picked up in the start/finish area at Waikanae Surf Club Friday, 27 January between 6 pm and 8 pm. In case you can’t pick it up on Friday, it’s also possible to pick it up next to the start line Saturday morning from 04.45 am.