Enjoy a morning of ridiculous fun! Pound the pavement - and the beach - as you take on the 8.4km course. Run, walk or stroll around the bays from the estuary to the pier - at your pace. You bring your friends, whanau or workmates and we bring the entertainment, a finisher’s medal and picturesque views. Round the Bays is for all ages and fitness stages.
The course is where it's at .... Whether you're a Walker, Jogger, CELSIUS® Runner or a Competitive or Non-Competitive participant.
To inject the fun into fun run, we will be starting on the edge of the Christchurch Estuary on Tidal View. Head along Linwood Ave and turn right into Dyers Road where entertainment will keep you moving and grooving. It's then a right onto Bridge Street up to The Parade. This is where the fun really kicks up a notch - as you get to choose your route!
Will you go 'fast' or 'scenic'? For those Harry Hard-outs where time is of the essence, boost down Marine Parade past the pier. Or for those that want to change it up and have some sand between their toes, go for a bit more of a burn run along the beach - then join your friends for the final push along the Parade to Thomson Park. At the finish line, collect your well-deserved finisher's medal, a cool drink and enjoy the after-party.
Got a question about your entry or hospo package? Not sure what to do on race day or where to collect your bib? Find out more …
Check out the course map so you're fully prepared on the day.
All you need to know about getting to the event, bib collection and more.
Start times, transport, post event details and more.
Have a burning question? Find out more.
Find out how your school can take part.
We make it easy for all ages and fitness stages.
Gather your crew, book a hospo package and celebrate your achievements after the race with kai and sweaty high-fives.
Make Round the Bays even more memorable with our official 2026 event merch.
Run for a reason! Fundraise or donate to a charity close to your heart.
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.
Join us in Ōtautahi Christchurch on Sunday 22 February 2026. Take part as an individual, with your friends, whānau, colleagues or as part of a team.