Organised by the Taupo Half Marathon Society the Mizuno Half Marathon, one of Taupo's iconic events, is held on the first Sunday in August each year.
With around 3000 entrants expected, it is New Zealand's largest stand-alone half marathon. Popular with runners and walkers of all abilities, the flat, scenic out-and back route takes in fantastic views of the mountains and Lake Taupo.
Proceeds from the event are distributed to young sports people within the Taupo District council area through the
Mizuno Half Marathon Sports Fund. The society supports Lake Taupo Hospice and entrants in the Mizuno Half Marathon may add a donation to their entries.
Sponsorship is also given to Waipahihi School’s Ironkidz and the Taupo Harrier Club’s 5K series with a schools participation competition encouraging school children to give sports ago, and to Taupo’s interprimary schools cross country.
Introduced in 2009 the Mizuno Off-Road Half Marathon is held on the first Saturday in September each year.
Starting in Kinloch near Taupo, the 21.1 kilometre event winds its way along the 'W2K' track towards Whakaipo Bay before turning onto at the Headland track loop and returning to Kinloch.
Off-road running continues to grow in popularity and this event provides a scenic run or walk for first time off-roaders or a new challenge for more experienced 'mountain-goats'.
In 2010 the quarter marathon (10.5k) option was added on a relatively flat course, providing the perfect event for supporters of half marathon entrants or as a recovery run for injured runners and walkers. It's a perfect event to experience the fun atmosphere of a friendly, non-competitive event.
Proceeds from the off-road events go to Bike Taupo and the Kinloch Community Association for the upkeep of the W2K, Kinloch Headland loop and Whangamata Stream tracks.
While both half marathons are part of the
63.3 challenge entrants are able to choose either of the off or on-road half marathons as part of the
Erin Baker and Cameron Brown Awards.
The Quarter Marathon can be used as part of the new
TryTaupo4 challenge.
See the Challenge page for more information.