Round the Bridges Run 2026

The Round the Bridges Run is a Hamilton city-centre fun run offering 6km and 12km courses, alongside children's races of 1km and 2km. The 12km race begins on Victoria Street in the CBD, the 6km starts at Garden Place, and all participants conclude on Victoria Street. Thousands of runners and walkers participate annually, positioning it as a community event rather than an elite-only competition. The 12km course proceeds north on Victoria Street, descends to the river path at Rostrevor Street, crosses the Waikato River via Fairfield Bridge, follows River Road south, passes through Hamilton Gardens, crosses Cobham Bridge, and then follows the river to the finish. The Hamilton Harrier Club initiated the race as a road event for elite athletes, with notable past participants including Barry Magee, Peter Snell, and Dick Quax. The event now spans eight decades, bringing together primary school children, walkers, club runners, and experienced participants. All finishers receive a medal, and music along the course enhances the race-day atmosphere.