Run Republic Wanderlust: Wellington Marathon

Welcome back to Republic of Wanderlust! After our journey through the stunning tropical beauty of the Phuket Marathon, this week we’re heading south to the Windy City of Wellington, New Zealand, for an entirely different race experience. Known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and famously unpredictable weather, the Wellington Marathon on June 29, 2025, offers a challenging course that runs through one of the southern hemisphere’s most scenic cities.

Expect a course that takes you along rugged coastlines, through picturesque harbors, and offers a little bit of everything: steep hills, stunning views, and that famous Wellington wind (we’ll talk more about that shortly).

Race Details

• Date: June 29, 2025
• Start Time: 7:00 AM (Local time)
• Distances and Entry Fees:
  • Marathon (42.2 km)
    Normal (4 Feb – 1 June): NZD 115 (approx. €66)
    Late (1 – 23 June): NZD 135 (approx. €78)
    Last Minute (after 23 June): NZD 155 (approx. €90)
  • Half Marathon (21.1 km)
    Normal (4 Feb – 1 June): NZD 85 (approx. €49)
    Late (1 – 23 June): NZD 100 (approx. €57)
    Last Minute (after 23 June): NZD 115 (approx. €66)
  • 10K
    Normal (4 Feb – 1 June): NZD 60 (approx. €34)
    Late (1 – 23 June): NZD 70 (approx. €40)
    Last Minute (after 23 June): NZD 80 (approx. €46)
• Course Profile: The marathon course will have you running through Wellington’s harbor and city streets with a few cheeky hills thrown in to make sure your legs remember they’re in New Zealand. With both coastal views and a bit of urban running, the course will definitely test your stamina, especially when the wind kicks in (and it will). There's also a notorious uphill section known as the “Te Aro Tussle” – it’s steep, it’s tough, and it's very Wellington. Full course route here

How to Enter

Register through the official Wellington Marathon website here. Early sign-up is encouraged, as spots fill up quickly, especially for the marathon distance. 

Why the Wellington Marathon?

• Iconic Views: Wellington’s waterfront is one of the most beautiful and unique marathon settings you’ll find. From the rugged coastline to the lush hills, you’ll be running through some of New Zealand’s most stunning urban landscapes. There’s also the bonus of being able to tell your friends you ran a marathon in a place known for its extreme weather—if you manage to keep your hat on.
• Windy City: Yes, Wellington gets windy—sometimes excessively so. While the weather can be a bit of a gamble, running with the wind in your face adds an element of challenge that you won’t find in many races. Think of it as a “free” workout bonus.
• Vibrant Culture: Wellington is New Zealand’s arts and culture capital. With its cafés, galleries, and quirky urban vibes, the city will charm you when you’re not busy battling the wind. Plus, after your race, you'll have no shortage of places to explore and food to try.

Things to See & Do in Wellington

• Te Papa Museum: A must-see in Wellington, this national museum offers insight into New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural environment. You’ll probably want to drop in after your marathon to take your mind off the “hill incident.”
• Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Garden: Hop on the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views of the city, followed by a stroll through the lush Botanic Gardens. It’s a great way to relax after a grueling race, even if you’ve just climbed a few hills.
• Wellington’s Craft Beer Scene: Wellington is home to some of New Zealand’s best craft beers. After your race, reward yourself with a well-earned pint in one of the many breweries around the city.
• Mount Victoria Lookout: For a view that’ll take your breath away (hopefully not literally, like on the hills of the marathon), hike up to Mount Victoria and look out over the city and harbor. You might even recognize some spots you ran past earlier!

Accommodation & Travel

Where to Stay

• Budget: The Dwellington Hostel – A laid-back, affordable option near Wellington’s city center. It's perfect for marathoners who need a cozy place to rest after the race (and before facing the next round of hill sprints).
• Mid-Range: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor – Offering spacious rooms and stunning views of Wellington’s harbor, this hotel puts you close to all the city’s best sights, including the start line.
• Splurge: QT Wellington – For those looking to stay in style, this boutique hotel combines luxury with artistic flair. A perfect place to treat yourself after conquering the course and the wind.

Transport

• Getting There: Flights from Ireland to Wellington typically involve stopovers in major hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or Auckland. Expect travel times to range from 24 to 30 hours, depending on your flight connections.
• Local Transport: Wellington’s bus and train system are efficient and will get you around the city with ease. Alternatively, taxis and Uber are readily available, though you might need them more for post-race leg recovery than getting around.

So, whether you’re ready to take on the challenge of running through Wellington’s scenic streets, or simply curious about the city’s quirky charm, the Wellington Marathon promises an unforgettable experience!