A group of runners in athletic gear competes in a marathon on a sunny day. They are running on a paved road flanked by green trees, with some road signs and traffic lights visible in the background. The runners are focused and appear to be mid-race.
Christchurch/Entry options/Elite Entry
christchurch - sunday 22 february

elite Entry

Feeling competitive? Find out how you can join our fastest runners in the Elite Start Group. Email us to register your interest, along with your fastest race results and the name of the event that you took part in. 

Register your interest
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 in sub 36 minutes and send us proof of your previous race results

  • 16 years or over on race day

  • Vetted and received approval from the Round the Bays team before signing up under the Elite Start Group

Register your interest

Elite entry fees 8.4km

Prices are inclusive of GST and processing fees. Elite Entries cannot be purchased on event day, Sunday 22 February 2026.

Supersaver
1 Sept - 14 Sept
earlybird
15 Sept - 19 Oct
standard
20 Oct - 8 Feb
late entry
9 Feb - 21 Feb
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
Register your interest

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

Two women in athletic gear cross the finish line of a race, holding hands and raising their arms in celebration. They are surrounded by cheering spectators and banners that say "Sport Wellington." The atmosphere is jubilant, and both women appear elated.

Individual Entry

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

Find out more
Enter now
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.

Schools Package

Putting the fun into exercise for you and your students.

Find out more
Enter now
A group of six people wearing blue shirts and race bibs walk along a road with their arms raised in celebration. They appear to be participating in a race or charity walk. Traffic cones and greenery are visible in the background.

Team 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 and celebrate afterwards with kai and sweaty high-fives! We’ve got you covered with our four Hospitality Package options.

Hospitality packages
Type name of image here
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.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.A runner crosses the finish line with arms outstretched in celebration. They are wearing a tank top, shorts, and running shoes. Spectators in the background cheer behind a blue barrier with the Under Armour logo. Trees and parked cars are visible behind the crowd.A smiling family of three, wearing matching white shirts, holds hands while walking on a street during a race event. Many other participants and spectators can be seen in the background under a sunny sky.A group of runners participates in a race. Three women in the foreground wear red tutus and black tops, smiling and holding hands as they run. People run on the road in the background amidst a sunny, scenic environment with greenery and a clear sky.Three runners crossing a blue inflatable arch finish line, holding hands up in celebration. They wear race numbers, athletic clothes, and running shoes. Other participants and spectators are visible in the background, with parts of the cityscape behind them.