So… you’ve signed up for Coastal Five.
Or you’re hovering over the register button thinking:
“Is this a great idea… or a terrible one?”
Short answer: it’s both.
Long answer: it’s also one of the most epic, rewarding, slightly chaotic things you’ll do this year.
Let’s get you sorted.
FIRST THINGS FIRST... WHAT ACTUALLY IS THE COASTAL FIVE?
It’s not your standard “one race and done” situation.
You’ve got:
- 5 races
- 2 days
- A total of 42.2km if you’re feeling bold
You can:
pick one race and give it your all
👉 stack a couple across the weekend
or go full legend mode and take on all five
No pressure. (Ok… maybe a little pressure 
)
THE STUFF EVERY FIRST-TIMER WORRIES ABOUT
Let’s just say it out loud:
- “Am I fit enough?”
- “What if I end up walking?”
- “What if I’m the slowest one there?”
- “Do people judge?”
Here’s the truth:
👉 Plenty of people walk, jog, run - or mix all three
👉 There’s a huge range of paces, goals, and reasons for being there
👉 No one’s watching you - they’re too busy doing their own thing
You don’t have to be fast.
You can even walk the whole way.
You just have to show up and take it at your own pace 👊
WHAT THE RACES ACTUALLY FEEL LIKE
- Coastal Half (21.1km)
Stunning views… but don’t get carried away early. Riversdale Drive will humble you later. - Lake Mangamahoe (4.5km)
Looks peaceful… but you’ve got options.
Go scenic and soak it in, or take the twistier route and keep things interesting. - Pukekura Park (5km)
Fast, fun, and deceptively punchy in places. - Pukeiti Climb (10km)
Builds character. And calves. Mostly calves 😅 - Devon Mile (1.6km)
Blink and it’s over — but you’ll feel like a hero crossing that line.
5 TIPS TO GET YOU THROUGH
1. Start slower than you think
Adrenaline is real. Don’t let it ruin your second half.
2. Fuel matters
Eat something. Even if you “don’t feel like it”. Future you will thank you.
3. Walking is not failure
It’s strategy. Own it.
4. Chat to people
The vibes are elite. You’re all in it together.
5. Soak it in
You’re running through some of the best scenery in Taranaki. Don’t miss it staring at your watch.
THE VIBE (THIS IS WHY PEOPLE COME BACK)
This isn’t just about running.
It’s:
- early morning nerves at the start line
- strangers cheering you on like old mates
- that “I can’t believe I did that” feeling at the finish
It’s gritty, it’s fun, and it’s built for every kind of runner - whether you’re chasing a time or just chasing the finish line.
FINAL WORD
You don’t have to be the fastest.
You don’t have to have it all figured out.
Run, walk, jog - however you get it done, it all counts.
You just have to start.
Pick your race (or races)…
and we’ll see you on the start line.
Still on the fence? This might be your sign. 💥