Feilding Marathon 2025

• Longest-running marathon since 1955, held annually in Feilding, New Zealand.
• Part of the Feilding Festival of Running, offering half marathon, 10km, 5km, and 2.5km events.
• Out-and-back course starting at Timona Park; shorter events feature family-friendly circuits.
• Proceeds support local club activities, including youth development and facility upgrades.
• Conveniently located at Timona Park, accessible via East St and Campbell St.

The Feilding Marathon, a standout event in New Zealand's running calendar, boasts a historic legacy as one of the world's longest continuously run marathons since its inception in 1955. Set in the tranquil town of Feilding, the marathon unfolds an out-and-back course starting and ending at Timona Park on Simon Street. Participants experience the route's natural charm as it winds through the serene landscapes typical of New Zealand's North Island.

The event caters to a diverse array of runners, offering distances including a marathon, half marathon, and 10km, alongside more inclusive, family-friendly circuits like the 5km and 2.5km courses inside Timona Park. The Feilding Marathon is not just a race; it embodies the spirit of community through its grassroots club endeavors. With most volunteers coming from the local Feilding Moa Harriers Club and Feilding Athletic Club, the marathon is pivotal in supporting youth development and facility upgrades.

Unique to this marathon is the option to run solo or in a relay team of two, allowing participants to switch at the halfway mark, offering a collaborative racing experience. The marathon's alignment with the Feilding Festival of Running brings together various events, adding to its allure and offering something for everyone.

For runners seeking a marathon experience steeped in tradition and community spirit, with the opportunity to engage with the natural beauty and friendly atmosphere of Feilding, this event is an appealing choice. It not only presents a running challenge but also a chance to be a part of a historic and culturally significant event in the heart of New Zealand.

The Feilding Marathon, starting and finishing at Timona Park in Feilding, New Zealand, offers a delightful running experience through its scenic out-and-back route. Primarily set on roads, with shorter distances navigating the grassy circuits of Timona Park, the marathon, half marathon, and 10km routes present gentle, rolling terrain typical of New Zealand's rural landscapes. Landmarks such as Pharazyn Rd and Stanway Hall mark key turning points, guiding runners through this historic course, which has been a staple of the running community since 1955.

Though the course is mostly flat, its out-and-back layout presents a mental challenge, requiring runners to retrace their steps, and the rural setting may bring unpredictable weather and wind. However, the relatively fast course, combined with its rich history and family-friendly atmosphere, makes the Feilding Marathon a memorable event for runners of all ages and abilities.

Exploring Feilding in New Zealand's Manawatū District during the Feilding Marathon presents a wonderful opportunity to dive into both athletic pursuits and cultural adventures. Beyond the race, the town offers charming experiences that are sure to enrich your visit.

Start your journey at the Feilding Farmers' Market, held on Fridays, where you can savor local produce and crafts. History enthusiasts will appreciate The Coach House Museum, which showcases New Zealand's settler heritage. Don't miss a tour of the Sale Yards, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. For outdoor lovers, the Rangitīkei River provides opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and camping.

Further afield, the Manawatū arts scene in nearby Palmerston North offers a variety of galleries, theaters, and exhibitions. For hiking and breathtaking views, explore Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge, steeped in Māori legend, or venture onto the Rangiwahia Hut Track in the Ruahine Ranges. Mountain biking enthusiasts can head to Arapuke Mountain Bike Park, while a scenic drive along The Country Road offers a glimpse into rural New Zealand. The Coastal Arts Trail is another enriching route, connecting you to local art and culture across Taranaki, Whanganui, and Manawatū.

With its welcoming community, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry, Feilding makes for an exceptional destination, whether you're here for the marathon or seeking a memorable travel experience.