Aoraki Mount Cook Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Aoraki Mount Cook Marathon
The Aoraki Mount Cook Marathon is a road running event held in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand. The programme includes Marathon, Half Marathon and 10 km events. All races start and finish at the Mt Cook Lodge in Aoraki Mount Cook Village and use out-and-back courses along the main Mt Cook Road. The Marathon comprises two laps of the Half Marathon course.
The course runs beside Lake Pukaki and through mountain and glacial landscapes within a park that covers just over 700 km². Glaciers cover about 40% of the park area; Aoraki Mt Cook rises to 3753 metres and the Tasman Glacier is a notable feature of the region.
Practical arrangements include checkpoint support, traffic management and first aid personnel positioned on course and at the start and finish. Water and sports beans are provided at eight checkpoints spaced at about every 5 km on the Marathon route, and portaloos are available near the start and finish area. Race packs can be collected before the event or on race day.
Event rules note that music and headphones are not permitted and dogs are not allowed in the park. If the event is cancelled for severe weather or similar reasons no refunds will be issued; registered participants may transfer entries or register for the following year at a discounted rate. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.