The streets of central Christchurch came alive on Sunday as a record 8,479 participants took part in the Christchurch Marathon, making it the largest event in the race’s history. The expected $3 million injection into the local economy capped off a day of triumphant victories and personal bests, as early drizzle gave way to near-perfect running conditions.
Runners, walkers, and wheelchair athletes were cheered on by strong spectator crowds lining the city’s streets. The event’s growing prestige attracted participants from 36 countries, a significant increase from 22 in 2024 and 24 in 2025. With 40% of entrants travelling from outside of Christchurch, the marathon has cemented its status as a major drawcard for the city.
In the main event, Dunedin’s Becky Aitkenhead claimed an emotional victory in the women’s marathon. Completing her debut marathon in an impressive 02:38:14, she crossed the finish line with her one-year-old watching from the sidelines. Natasha Richards finished second, with Christchurch’s own Katherine Camp securing third place.
Japanese runner takes men's title
The men’s marathon title was won by 25-year-old Taishiro Kawano of Japan, who finished in 02:24:19. Kawano had recently attended a training camp in New Zealand and felt so drawn to the race that he flew back to Japan briefly before returning just to compete. His victory was a testament to his dedication and recent training block.
It was overwhelming. I was quite emotional and at a loss for words. I think you never want to think about the finish line until it’s there. It was pretty surreal.
"I wanted to come back and see how good my training was," Kawano said. "It was a really nice flat course. Of course I’m feeling really good.” Christchurch local Fionn Cullinane and Warkworth’s Rodwyn Isaacs rounded out the podium in second and third place, respectively.
Race Director Chris Cox said the event’s success, which has seen it more than double in size in three years, is due to its growing reputation as a world-class running festival. "We’ve seen incredible growth over the past few years, and that comes down to the experience we’re delivering," Cox says. "It’s a fast, accessible course, but it’s also an event that people genuinely enjoy being part of, whether they’re chasing a personal best or just taking part.”
The modern multi-lap course, introduced in 2023, is designed to showcase the heart of the rebuilt city. It takes participants past landmarks such as the Canterbury Museum, along the Avon River, over the Bridge of Remembrance, and past the Te Pae Convention Centre and the new One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha, the subject of ongoing discussions for future sporting events.
Gualter claims seventh national title in half marathon
The MW Traffic Management Half Marathon was the day’s largest category, with 4,309 entrants. The race also served as the Athletics New Zealand National Half Marathon Championships, attracting a field of elite domestic talent. Wellington’s Toby Gualter was a standout performer, securing his seventh national title with a winning time of 01:03:15, shaving 15 seconds off his 2025 result.
"I was really happy to get the win here today - that was the main focus," Gualter said. "It was a gutsy run, but I felt really good. Having so many people cheering you on, you don’t really get that anywhere else in New Zealand.” Christopher Dryden from Christchurch and Isaac Murphy from Palmerston North finished second and third.
In the women’s half marathon, Napier’s Laura Nagel executed a perfect race strategy to claim victory in 1:13:44. After spotting the leader on the second lap, she waited until the final 2km to make her move, surging ahead to take the title. Bara Styblova and Arleah Tippins placed second and third.
Local runners shine in 10k race
Christchurch runners dominated the Formthotics 10km race. Twenty-year-old Bridie Restieaux was the first woman across the line, achieving a personal best time of 37:53. "It was great conditions and a great atmosphere to be out there in the city with so many people supporting and a great group of people to run with," she said.
Oska Baynes, also from Christchurch, won the men’s 10km in 32:36. He said his favourite part of the event is the people and the collective spirit. "It’s pretty amazing, you definitely feel the collective energy and excitement that comes from having that many people about," Baynes commented.
The day also saw impressive performances in the wheelchair races, with Curtis Smith winning the marathon and Antoine Sandoz the half marathon. In other sports news, the Warriors have celebrated a significant victory in Melbourne, adding to a weekend of sporting triumphs, just as the University of Calgary breaks world dinosaur gathering record.
Runners raise over $34,000 for charity
The event was not just about athletic achievement but also community spirit. The marathon’s partnership with the Bone MarROW Cancer Trust, now in its third year, saw fundraisers generate a massive $34,748.71 for the charity.
The funds, raised through the 'Run for Rānui' initiative, will support Rānui House & Apartments, which provides a home away from home for patients and their families travelling to Christchurch for life-saving treatment. The total includes an $8,479 donation directly from the marathon event.
Trust CEO Mandy Kennedy expressed her gratitude for the community’s efforts. "It's been amazing to see so many people step up to the start line for us," she says. "Their incredible fundraising means more families can stay together at Rānui during one of the hardest times of their lives. Having that home-away-from-home makes a real difference, because we know that when families are together, they heal faster."
Reflecting on the record-breaking day, Race Director Chris Cox paid tribute to the collaborative effort behind the scenes. "We’re enormously grateful to our community of volunteers, sponsors and the Christchurch City Council. It’s a team effort at the end of the day and we couldn’t be happier with the result."
