After a six-year pause, the island is gearing up for the powerful revival of a beloved local tradition, the Wharf to Wharf marathon. Scheduled for Saturday the 3rd of October 2026, the event’s return marks its 20th anniversary, making this the perfect milestone to bring the community together once again.
Known by many as New Zealand’s friendliest marathon, the event began in 2006 when local legend Barry Mouat created a fundraising event for Kaitoke School.
The history of the run is deeply personal to the island. As Kaitoke School principal Leanne Eloff, who is helping organise the event, notes, “The first event ran from Tryphena Wharf to Port Fitzroy Wharf. Barry walked the entire distance with his nine year old daughter Savannah.” In 2007, despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Barry walked the course once more, crossing the line hours later to the cheers of the island.
“Just over a year later Barry passed away, but his legacy lives on,” Eloff says.
Today, the event remains Kaitoke School’s major fundraiser and a true celebration of community spirit. As she describes it, “Run entirely by local volunteers, with home baking at aid stations and waves from locals along the way, it is more than a race.”
The journey begins at Port FitzRoy Wharf at the northern end of the island, nestled peacefully among native bush and sheltered waters. From there, the course follows gravel roads and forestry tracks, winding through regenerating native forest, rolling farmland and long stretches of classic Barrier backcountry. Participants climb steadily through the Whangaparapara hill section, where sweeping views open across the island’s rugged interior.
The terrain is varied and honest. Eloff sums it up perfectly: “This is not a city marathon. It is raw, natural and beautifully remote.”
The race concludes at Tryphena Wharf. There is always a sense of celebration at the finish line, where locals gather, families cheer, and stories are shared about the hills conquered.
The event offers options to suit different levels of ability, from the full 42.2 kilometre endurance event to the 21 kilometre half marathon, as well as shorter walk or run distances to encourage family participation across all ages.
Ultimately, finishing the Wharf to Wharf is about feeling something uniquely Barrier. Eloff says it is about “salt air, tired legs, proud smiles and the knowledge that you have travelled the length of a very special island under your own steam.”
For tickets, transport, accommodation, or to become a sponsor, head to Wharf2Wharf.com
