So… you’re thinking about Coastal Five.
Love that for you!
But now comes the big question:
Which race should you actually sign up for?
With five different events across the weekend, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re chasing a challenge, bringing the family along, or just here for the vibes and finish line snacks.
Here’s our completely unofficial guide to finding your Coastal Five match.
COASTAL HALF (21.1KM)
FOR THE ENDURANCE LOVERS
You like settling in for the long haul.
The Coastal Half is all about pacing yourself, soaking up the scenery, and keeping something in the tank for later.
You’ll get incredible coastline views, great atmosphere, and one very important reminder:
Riversdale Drive is not your friend late in the race.
And yes - this one isn’t just for runners. Plenty of people walk the Coastal Half too, with enough time to take it at your own pace from start to finish.
Best for:
Runners and walkers
People wanting a longer challenge
Endurance lovers
Anyone chasing that finish line feeling
PUKEKURA PARK (5KM)
FOR THE "MAYBE I CAN DO THIS" CROWD
This one’s perfect for people newer to running, walking, or building up toward their first 5km.
It’s fun, scenic, and full of atmosphere -with just enough punchy sections to keep things interesting.
Whether your goal is to run the whole thing, mix in some walking, or simply get to the finish line, Pukekura Park is a great place to start.
Best for:
First-timers
Families
Walkers and joggers
Anyone building confidence over 5km
LAKE MANGAMAHOE (4.5KM)
FOR THE TRAIL LOVERS AND SCENERY CHASERS
Lake Mangamahoe gives you two very different ways to tackle the course.
The scenic option takes you along wider paths and gravel road sections, with beautiful views across the lake to the mountain on a clear day.
Feeling a little more adventurous? The twistier track throws in swing bridges, steep downhill sections, and climbs up to the lookout.
Whichever route you choose, this one’s packed with scenery and plenty of personality.
Best for:
Nature lovers
Trail runners and walkers
People who love a bit of adventure
PUKEITI CLIMB (10KM)
FOR PEOPLE WHO MAKE QUESTIONABLE HILL-RELATED DECISIONS
Look… the clue is in the name.
This road course builds character. And calves. Mostly calves.
The Pukeiti Climb is tough, beautiful, and incredibly satisfying once it’s done. You’ll probably question your life choices somewhere on the uphill sections - but the views help.
Best for:
Hill lovers
People wanting a proper challenge
Anyone who enjoys earning the finish line
DEVON MILE (1.6KM)
FOR THE FAST, FUN, ALL-IN ENERGY
Short distance. Big atmosphere.
The Devon Mile is quick, exciting, and over before you know it - but crossing that finish line still feels pretty epic.
It’s also a great option for kids, especially with the Mini Miler bringing plenty of fun energy to the weekend.
Perfect if you:
want something shorter and fun
are bringing the family along
want to test your speed
just want to be part of the Coastal Five atmosphere
ALL FIVE (42.2KM)
FOR THE ABSOLUTE LEGENDS
This is the full Coastal Five experience.
Five races. Two days. A total of 42.2km across the weekend.
It’s part challenge, part adventure, and part “why did I sign up for this again?” somewhere around the hills.
Taking on all five means experiencing every side of Coastal Five - coastline, parks, climbs, atmosphere, and a very solid amount of sore legs.
Best for:
People who love a challenge
Weekend warriors
Anyone wanting serious bragging rights
So… which one should you choose?
Honestly? There’s no wrong answer.
Some people pick one race and go all in.
Some stack a couple across the weekend.
Some brave all five and become absolute legends.
Run, walk, jog — however you want to tackle Coastal Five, there’s a race with your name on it.
The hardest part is usually just choosing where to start.