Course Overview
Course overview: Located in the Centre of Hamilton and nestled on the side of the mighty Waikato River, Hamilton Gardens offers picturesque views and wonderfully manicured gardens. Both the start and finish line are sat within the gardens with the course meandering throughout the gardens out towards the Waikato River. You will then trail along the undulating river banks lined with lush native bush.
Suitable for: Lovers of magical autumn colours. Great for first timers being a flat easy course. Also fantastic for experienced runners looking for a new PR.
Track Condition: 100% paved track
Elevation gain:
Short course – 93m
Mid course – 123m
Long course – 229m
Please note: As the Gardens are very busy on the weekends, it is recommended that you park on Grey Street which has an easy underpass access to the event venue within the Gardens.
Access to the event venue is via GATE TWO which offers some parking near the Camellia Garden.
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FAQ - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Timing & Results
The events are timed. If you are wanting to know your time, please check the results page on the website post-event.
We are a non-competitive event and there are no prizes for placings. Results and categories are based on what distance the participant entered in and if they select walk or run on the entry form.
Is there a course cut off time?
There is no course cut off time unless it becomes a safety issue for participants. We have Tail End Charlie to ensure no one is left behind. There will also be plenty of marshals throughout the course. All participants will be given a phone number pre-event in case they require any assistance on the course.
Is there a bag drop at the event?
Unfortunately, there is no bag drop at these events. We are lucky enough that parking is close to the startline for most events so we recommend leaving extra gear in your car
Are there road closures?
There are no road closures for any event. All normal road rules apply.
Is there water and snacks on course?
Yes! There are multiple pitstops on each course with water and delicious snacks but please remember that this event is cupless so you will need to bring your own reusable cup 🙂
I can’t make the event anymore, can someone participate for me?
Race entries are unfortunately not transferable to other people due to Health and Safety. We need to know who is on course in case of a medical emergency. If you are unable to make the event, we are more than happy to transfer your entry to another event in the series if you contact us more than two weeks prior to the event.
Can kids take part?
We love kids taking part in there events. Kids of any age can take part, but kids under 13 years old must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Are there prizes?
We have an awesome 'prize giving' at the start line of each event and a number of really awesome spot prizes given away. As this event is non-competitive there are no prizes for winning.
Can I change my distance?
You can change your distance and entry anytime before entries close two days prior to the event or on race morning during the registration. You will be required to pay the price increase to upgrade your distance and there are no refunds to move down a distance.
Can I bring a pram or pushchair?
This is dependent on each event and will be in the participant notes emailed to you pre event.
If I enter the run category, do I have to run the whole thing?
No, you are welcome to walk at any stage. If you are planning on running / jogging at any point of the event, please enter the running category just so we know the numbers in each category.
Do I need to check in before the race?
You will need to check in and collect your timing chip when you arrive onsite before the event. Check-in is open on the Friday pre event from 2pm-4pm, and Saturday event morning from 7:00 - 8:30 am. Check in is located in the event village.
Are dogs allowed?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at these events, with the exception of our Auckland Walk n' Wag event.