First Light Marathon
25 Jan 2025
25 Jan 2025
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
Race Videos & Photos
Check out some spectacular moments from the race.
In order to register for First Light Marathon, you must sign up for one of the packages.
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!
Ways to Enter
Get details on international and local entrance options.
Accommodation
Check out the hotel options for your stay.
Packages
First Light Marathon 2025: 5-day package
23 - 27 Jan | 5 days | 1790 NZD
4 nights in Tairāwhiti Gisborne
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 and hike to Cooks Cove
26 Jan | 5 hours | 100 NZD
Hike Cooks Cove Walkway and learn the history of local iwi Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti
Gisborne Astro Tours
25 Jan | 2 hours | 130 NZD
Marvel at the celestial wonders of the Southern Hemisphere.
Stingray Encounter
24 Jan | 2.5 hours | 150 NZD
Take a reef ecology tour and meet Stingrays, Eagle Rays, and other reef dwellers.
Extensions
Lakes and Legends
27 - 1 Feb | 6 days | 3990 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.
Curious about other people's experiences or still have questions regarding the race, booking, or traveling?
Reviews
Read the thoughts of runners who have experienced the magic!
The one-stop shop for all your media-related needs.
Blog
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Media Resources
Check here for press guides, media galleries, and contact information.
Partners & Sponsors
Read here about our wonderful sponsors, partners, and suppliers - and how you can be one of them.
Ways to Enter
Like all Albatros Adventure Marathons™️, First Light Marathon is designed to be more than just a race. We want you to run in spectacular places, surrounded by charming people, and exposed to new cultural experiences. Spectators welcome!
In order to register for the race, you MUST enter with one of the following options:
International Residents
For international participants, race entry is only possible in conjunction with a multi-day tour package.
The packages include all the ingredients for a fantastic getaway:
accommodation, social events,sightseeing, and select meals and transportation per the itinerary.
Packages also generally include ample amounts of free time, during which you can choose to join organized excursions or explore the region at your own pace.
In the First Light Marathon, you'll be among the first in the world to greet the day's sun as you tackle this tough course. Before and after the race, you can dive into learning about the rich Māori culture, embark on adventurous excursions, and relax with world-class wine and delicious food in this stunning corner of Aotearoa New Zealand.
View our entry packages here
Residents of Aotearoa New Zealand
When living in Aotearoa New Zealand you can sign up for race only here:
Please note: If you are looking to enjoy an extended holiday in Tairāwhiti Gisborne and reside elsewhere in Aotearoa New Zealand, it is certainly possible to join the standard international package.