Two athletes compete in a wheelchair race on a city street lined with blue barricades and spectators. The athlete in the foreground is pushing with intense effort, while the other follows closely behind. Residential buildings and trees are visible in the background.
Christchurch

Accessibility

We’re committed to making New Zealand’s funnest fun run the most inclusive of all!

We’ve been working with Paralympics New Zealand on ways to increase accessibility at Round the Bays so that all New Zealanders can take part. Whether you want to run, walk or roll.

For Round the Bays 2025, we have created two mobility Start Groups - Competitive Mobility and Non-Competitive Mobility.

Christchurch
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Accessibility

Competitive Mobility Start Group

Are you a harry hard-out ready to take on the race at top speed? If you can complete the 8.4km course in less than 36 minutes, sign up under the Competitive Mobility Start Group. You’ll start at the front of the pack along with the Elite Start Group.

Non-Competitive Mobility Start Group

Looking to take things at a slower pace? Sign up under the Non-Competitive Mobility Start Group. You’ll start at the back of the Walkers Start Group, along with those pushing strollers and slower walkers. Your race time doesn’t begin until you cross the start line mat, so you can still knock off your personal best! If you're not in to crowds and completing the course in more than 36 minutes, let us know at @roundthebays@stuff.co.nz and we'll find a solution!

Getting to Round the Bays

We recommend using public transport and/or our event shuttles to get to and from the start and finish line as there is limited parking close by.

Accessibility FAQs

What if I can't get to Bib Collection?

No problem. A friend or family member can pick up your bib on your behalf from Bib Collection. They just need to know your bib number. You can also collect your bib on the day at our start line Information Tent. However, please allow at least 45 minutes - you don’t want to be queuing to get your bib when all your mates have set off.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, registered service animals (not pets) are welcome to join you at Round the Bays. Sign up to the Non-Competitive Mobility Start Group to ensure the safety of your service animal on the course. Please also email the team at roundthebays@stuff.co.nz to let them know that you'll be bringing your service animal on the day.

Will there be accessible toilets?

There will be accessible toilets at the start line, on the course and at the finish line.

Can I bring my own food?

You can bring your own food, but there will also be a great range of food vendors to choose from at the finish line and a coffee van at the start line where you can fuel up.

Do you have a bag drop?

There will be a bag drop at the start line where you can leave your bag and this will be taken to the finish line for you to collect when you’ve finished the race. 

Please tear off the bag drop tag from your race bib and attach it to your own drawstring bag for your gear (change of clothes, lightweight jacket, post race snacks etc). Please do not leave valuables in your bag. The drawstring bag should be no larger than a shoe bag – no backpacks or handbags please. 

Can I bring a guide/support person to take part with me?

Absolutely! Your guide/support person can accompany you at Round the Bays, no charge. However, if they’re looking to compete alongside you and get their own race time and medal, they will need to enter themselves separately.

Is there someone I can speak to about my specific needs?

We'd love to hear from you. Email the team at roundthebays@stuff.co.nz and let us know your requirements.

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Course Map

Check out the course map so you're fully prepared on the day.

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Pre Race

All you need to know about getting to the event, bib collection and more.

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Race Day

Start times, transport, post event details and more.

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FAQ's

Have a burning question? Find out more.

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Schools

Find out how your school can take part.

Two athletes compete in a wheelchair race on a city street lined with blue barricades and spectators. The athlete in the foreground is pushing with intense effort, while the other follows closely behind. Residential buildings and trees are visible in the background.
Volunteer

Volunteer and be part of the action...COMING SOON

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