Top Tips Running in Mid Canterbury

Your Guide to Mid Canterbury Running Trails

Whether you're chasing a marathon personal best, tackling your first trail run, or simply looking for a scenic place to stretch your legs, Mid Canterbury offers some of New Zealand's most diverse running experiences.

Where to Run

From braided river trails and tranquil lakeside tracks to the alpine foothills of Mount Somers and the landscapes surrounding Methven, runners can choose from easy urban pathways, long-distance gravel trails, family-friendly loops, and challenging mountain terrain. Many routes are accessible year-round and suit every age, ability, and distance.
  • Mt Somers Track
  • Ashburton / Hakatere River Trail
  • Methven Walkway
  • Lake Hood and Braided Waters Trail

Mid Canterbury Running Events Guide

With diverse terrain that appeals to both beginner and expert runners, Mid Canterbury has a range of running events to work towards.

  • Mission Mt Somers - One of the region’s flagship trail running events featuring distances from short courses through to marathon distances across the spectacular Mount Somers and Staveley landscapes.

  • Ashburton River Trail Marathon - Held on the Ashburton / Hakatere River Trail and showcasing one of the district’s most popular running routes with distances suitable for a range of abilities.

  • South Island Half Marathon - Hosted at Lake Hood and popular with runners chasing fast times thanks to the flat lakeside course.

  • Ashburton Domain parkrun - free, weekly 5km run held every Saturday at 8:00am in the beautiful Ashburton Domain. Great for beginners, families, social runners and walkers.

Visit RunFinder for up to date information and the full list of Mid Canterbury Running Events.

Where to Eat
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  • Flashbacks Ashburton

    Ashburton, Canterbury
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  • The Plantbased Pantry & Cafe

    Ashburton, Canterbury
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  • Blue Pub Methven

    Methven, Canterbury
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