A group of runners is starting a race under a large blue inflatable arch on a city street. Some participants are dressed in athletic gear, concentrating on their run, while others appear more casual. The race takes place on a rainy day, with buildings visible in the background.
Auckland/Entry options/Elite Entry
Auckland - sunday 8 march

elite Entry

Feeling competitive? Keen to join our fastest runners in the Elite Start Group? Find out if you qualify below.

A runner crosses the finish line in a race, holding onto a blue ribbon with the text "Gold Coast Marathon" on it. Spectators stand behind a barrier, watching and cheering. The runner appears to be focused and determined as they complete the race.

Do you qualify?

Are you eligible for the Elite Start Group? Here’s the criteria for Elite runners:

  • Able to complete the 8.4km course in sub 36 minutes

  • 16 years old or over on race day

  • Able to provide your fastest race results and the name of the event that you took part in if requested

Elite entry fees 8.4km

Prices are inclusive of GST and processing fees. Elite Entries cannot be purchased on event day, Sunday 8 March 2026.

Supersaver
1 Sept - 14 Sept
earlybird
15 Sept - 19 Oct
standard
20 Oct - 22 Feb
late entry
23 Feb - 7 March
Adult (16+)
$35
$40
$49
$59

Bang for your buck

Your entry fee gets you a whole host of goodies as well as the amazing memories you'll make and take away with you.

Finishers Medal
Aid Stations
Free event transport
Live entertainment

Come dressed in theme

For 2026, the Round the Bays theme goes ELEMENTAL — a celebration of the wild natural forces that shape Aotearoa. Each location honours a different element:

In Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, channel the heat of Fire as you blaze past the mighty Rangitoto.

In Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, embrace the power of Wind as it lifts you through the capital’s iconic waterfront.

And in Ōtautahi Christchurch, flow with the rhythm of Water alongside rivers, estuaries and open skies.

Whether you run with fire, move with the wind or roll with the tide — this is your chance to bring the elements to life.

Other entry options

A group of runners of various ages participating in a race. The focus is on a woman in red and a man in yellow. Some wear headphones, hats, and wristbands while running. The background shows more runners and parts of trees and event signage.

Individual Entry

Going solo? Nab your entry early to get the best deal.

Find out more
Enter now
A group of people, including adults and children, walk together on a road by the seaside. The children hold hands and smile, while the adults wave. The background features a view of the ocean and a distant mountain under a cloudy sky. Other people walk nearby.

Schools Package

Putting the fun into exercise for you and your students.

Find out more
Enter now
A group of people, some wearing medals, are joyfully posing with their arms raised, smiling, and displaying lively gestures on a grassy area by the beach. The background features a cloudy sky, distant water, and hills.

Teams Entry

Sign up the crew, book your hospitality package and celebrate together!

Find out more
Enter now
A group of people wearing matching bright green shirts pose enthusiastically with arms raised in front of large green tents on a sunny day. The group looks joyful and united, likely participating in an outdoor event or activity.

Hospitality Packages

Gather your crew, book a hospo package and celebrate your achievements  after the race with kai and sweaty high-fives.

Hospitality packages
Type name of image here
A woman runs in a marathon on a city street, wearing a black hijab, gray long-sleeve shirt, black shorts, and white shoes. Other participants run and walk behind her. The street is lined with trees and spectators. Signs and buildings are visible in the background.A group of runners poses for a photo at the finish line of a race event. Some participants are wearing race numbers and medals. A few other runners and spectators are seen in the background. The atmosphere is festive, with banners and flags around the area.Runners cross the finish line at an outdoor race event. The finish is marked by a blue inflatable arch with trees and spectators in the background. Bright sunlight illuminates the scene, casting long shadows on the pavement.A group of runners of various ages participating in a race. The focus is on a woman in red and a man in yellow. Some wear headphones, hats, and wristbands while running. The background shows more runners and parts of trees and event signage.Four individuals stand in a grassy area, celebrating after a race. Three people in white shirts and medals cheer with their arms raised, while one in a red shirt smiles and holds a camera. A child in front holds up a medal, and people and tents are visible in the background.Two children, wearing race bibs and hats, run a race together on a road with other participants in the background. The girl on the left wears a pink outfit and cap, while the boy on the right wears a blue shirt, colorful shorts, and a bucket hat.