Over 31,000 Participants Ignite Auckland’s Round the Bays Fun Run

More than 31,300 participants took part in the 54th Southern Cross Round the Bays event in Auckland, New Zealand, on March 5, 2023. This vibrant celebration of fitness has established itself as not only the largest participation event in Aotearoa but also one of the biggest per capita running events globally.

The surge in attendance included over 4,000 individuals who registered in the final week, demonstrating the event’s enduring appeal. “There is such a huge love and loyalty for Southern Cross Round the Bays, with so many people from across Auckland and the country coming together for a real feel-good event,” said Henry Mclernon, event director.

A Growing Trend in Participation

Collectively, the Round the Bays series attracted over 46,000 participants across three cities, including Wellington and Christchurch. Auckland alone hosted nearly double the participants of any other running event in New Zealand, solidifying its status as one of the largest running events in the Southern Hemisphere.

Traditionally a walking event, this year marked a noticeable shift towards running, with numbers of joggers increasing to 43% from 39% in 2022. Participants embraced the 8.4-kilometre course along Tāmaki Drive with renewed enthusiasm.

Themed “Elemental,” this year’s event featured fire (ahi) as a focal point, inspiring numerous creative costumes. Participants donned fiery wigs, red tutus, and even dressed as characters from popular culture, such as Anger from the film “Inside Out.”

Inclusive and Impactful

Every participant received a finisher’s medal, celebrating the achievements of competitive and non-competitive entrants alike, including wheelchair users, elite runners, and those walking at their own pace. The event brought together a diverse community, from octogenarians to cancer survivors, all of whom contributed to the event’s festive atmosphere.

“This truly is New Zealand’s most iconic, most-loved mass participation event,” Mclernon added. “Everyone involved helped deliver a festival vibe at the finish line, and Madills Farm held Auckland’s largest afterparty.”

The Southern Cross Round the Bays also serves as a significant fundraiser, raising nearly $350,000 NZD for over 140 charities, including the event’s official charity, the Mental Health Foundation NZ.

With a record number of businesses and groups, totaling more than 1,250, participating this year, the sense of community was palpable. Mclernon summarized the day by stating, “From those who were chasing a personal best to those who needed true grit to get across the finish line, this was definitely a year to remember.”

In the competitive categories, notable performances included:

• Fastest male: Isaac Gordon with a time of 26:31
• Fastest female: Brigid Dennehy finishing in 28:05
• Fastest mobility competitor: Jaden Movold completing the course in 21:56

The Southern Cross Round the Bays continues to demonstrate the power of community and the joy of collective participation, making it a highlight in the New Zealand sporting calendar.