I was excited for this race. It was my third marathon and I looked forward to completing it while surrounded by NZ's stunning Southern Alps. As beautiful as it was though, I was very disappointed with a few things. Firstly, there weren't that many fans. There wasn't much for advertising and most locals had no idea that it was even going on (with the exception of the road closings). Secondly, the race organization left something to be desired. Check-in was disorganized; the few people I dealt with were unfriendly and unhelpful, and they didn't even have enough t-shirts for people who signed up early.

But my biggest disappointment was definitely the lack of race support along the way. It was a looped race (from Qtown to Arrowtown and back) and on the second half, the few water stations that they did have were actually out of water! If that wasn't bad enough, THERE WAS NOT ONE TOILET PROVIDED ANYWHERE ON THIS COURSE. Absolutely shocking!!! You can imagine the problems this can cause when you're miles from town, surrounded by rolling hills and mountains, and nature decides to call.

Seriously, this is one of the most beautiful races I could imagine, but the race organizers really need to work on some CRUCIAL things to make this race workable (and to get me to come back!). There were only 78 finishers who all deserved more from this race.

Once was enough for me... I've done the Auckland Marathon as well and it was ten times better (albeit scenic in a different way).

I loved this run as it wasn't too popular so it was a great first marathon for me! Not too hilly - not too flat either! Organization could've been better - i.e. porta-loos.... But highly recommended!!