Whanga 50

The Whanga 50 is a proper coastal adventure, following the rocks, beaches and shoreline around the Whangaparāoa Peninsula.

For the best run, start from Manly Beach around 3 hours before low tide. There are a few sections that can get pretty dicey as the tide comes in, so timing is important. Expect plenty of rock hopping, scrambling and exploring along some seriously spectacular coastline.

On the northern side of Stanmore Bay there’s a small cliff jump and short swim, while the section after leaving Whangaparāoa Road towards Weiti Wharf brings a different kind of challenge. Be ready for some hard yakka through the mangroves, with plenty of hidden oyster beds underfoot — take care, although getting through completely unscathed can be easier said than done!

Other highlights include a very cool cave between Little Manly and Matakatia, endless rock shelves, beaches, bays and some amazing views across the Hauraki Gulf.

If you’re moving a little slower than planned and the tide starts catching you, there are plenty of opportunities around the peninsula to bail out onto the road.

This isn’t your standard 50 km trail run. It’s an epic coastal mission around one of Auckland’s most stunning peninsulas. Expect wet feet, rocks, mud, mangroves, a bit of swimming and plenty of adventure. Come prepared to work hard, get a little scratched up and have an absolute blast.