Vineyard Marathons In The Wine Regions Of New Zealand.

There is no better distraction than beautiful scenery to take your mind off running. If you enjoy being active and out in the fresh air, combine your regular marathon ambitions with the spectacular vineyards New Zealand has to offer. From the wild hillsides to sunbaked plains and curving golden sand beaches, the wine regions of New Zealand produce full-bodied reds and aromatic whites. The combination of great landscapes and award-winning wines is hard to resist – and what better way to earn that indulgent glass or two than with a vineyard marathon?

Whether you’re a “social” runner or a serious athlete, you’ll find a trail for every fitness level. Each marathon or half-marathon provides a way to experience the regions, from cellar doors and across beachfronts to winding island roads. With a flagship vineyard at the end of each run, you’ll also have the perfect motivation to reach the finish line.

These three key events – from the inaugural Waiheke Island Half-Marathon in Auckland to the Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of the North Island, and down to Marlborough at the top of the South Island – will take you past a vast number of New Zealand vineyards.

1. Waiheke Half Marathon – 7th May, 2016

The island of Waiheke, in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, is blessed with extraordinary natural features. Its ancient rock base, marine position and warmth have given rise to many of Waiheke’s award-winning vineyards, which produce primarily red wines such as syrah. The inaugural Explore Waiheke Half-Marathon will give runners and wine lovers exceptional access to the island’s best features.

2. Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon – 14th May, 2016

The 10th Saint Clair marathon on Saturday takes its course through some of the region’s best-known vineyards. Beginning at the Saint Clair cellar door, you’ll wind your way through the Allan Scott and Cloudy Bay wineries, along riversides and through the vineyards, all the while surrounded by the sunny Marlborough hills on the horizon.

3. Hawke’s Bay International Marathon – 14th May, 2016

Taking place right in the centre of the region, with a track traversing a variety of terrains. Flat and gentle for the most part, the marathon begins at the Napier waterfront before heading up through spectacular scenery, while the half-marathon and 10-kilometre run take you through privately owned vineyards and groves of olive trees towards the cellar doors of Sileni Estates vineyard.

For more details, head over to www.explorewaiheke.co.nz