News & Updates

The 2023 New Zealand Marathon Championships will feature as part of the new-look Frontrunner Christchurch Marathon on Sunday 16 April.

Traditionally regarded as one of New Zealand’s fastest marathons, the 2023 edition will take place on a brand-new 10km looped course, which will prove an enticing prospect for athletes pursuing a fast time.

The 2022 New Zealand Marathon Championships were scheduled to take place as part of the Christchurch Marathon, but a Covid cancellation of the event brought about the innovative Reboot Marathon in Canterbury in the fight for national marathon honours.

The concept proved a huge success as New Zealand men’s champion Daniel Balchin recorded a time of 2:15:55 – the fastest marathon time by a Kiwi in New Zealand for quarter of a century – and a flurry of PB’s were set.

Athletics NZ out of stadia co-ordinator John Bowden is looking forward to the 2023 edition of the New Zealand Marathon Championships, which will be held on an athlete-friendly course.

“The Christchurch Marathon is one of the iconic and well-established marathons in New Zealand,” explains John. “It is always a flat, fast course and the new looped route will prove a very popular one among our leading marathon racers.”

Frontrunner Christchurch Marathon race director Chris Cox said: “We are delighted that this year’s race features the prestige of the New Zealand Marathon Championships. We have gone for a total refresh with our new course, which we are confident with prove very attractive for both athletes and spectators.

“Logistically the race will be a lot more compact while retaining the traditional flat, fast nature of the race which has produced many quick times and PB’s over the years.”

The race will start and finish at the Armagh St Gates at the entrance to Hagley Park with the 10km staying close to the CBD. To find out more about the 2023 Christchurch Marathon course go here

To enter go here