Register Today!
Experience the unforgettable, and rare, opportunity to run or walk on the Tauranga Airport runway while supporting your
Aerocool Rescue Helicopter.
what is Run the Runway?
Run the Runway offers participants the rare opportunity to access an operational runway and experience it in a truly unique way as the sun sets across the horizon.
This family friendly community event brings together participants, supporters and local businesses to raise vital funds for the Coastal Bay of Plenty Aerocool Rescue Helicopter that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Every entry helps support the life-saving missions your rescue helicopter crew undertake across the region when every second counts.
Before participants take to the runway, the excitement begins at the Funway, a vibrant event village packed with free activities, giveaways, entertainment, food vendors, a licensed bar, and live music for all ages to enjoy. It's the perfect place to gather with friends, family and supporters before the main event.
As evening approaches, runners and walkers will set off on a memorable sunset run and walk, taking in the unique sights and atmosphere of the runway at dusk.
Register Today!
event details
Check-in for Run the Runway opens from 4:00pm at Classic Flyers Aviation Museum, followed by a mandatory safety briefing at 7:00pm, with the event taking off immediately afterwards.
WHEN
WHERE
distance
5km course. Run, or walk.
Simply have fun
why run the runway?
All funds raised through Run the Runway help support your Aerocool Rescue Helicopter's life-saving missions, including:
- Emergency medical responses
- Search and rescue missions
- Inter-hospital patient transfers
- Vital equipment
- Required rescue helicopter maintenance
Leaderboards
Individuals
Teams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Run the Runway?
Run the Runway is a unique community fundraising event that gives participants the rare opportunity to walk or run on the Tauranga Airport runway at sunset, all while supporting local rescue helicopter services.
Before the event begins, participants and supporters can enjoy the Funway, our pre-event entertainment village featuring free activities, giveaways, food vendors, a licensed bar, and live music.
Who does the event support?
Every registration helps support local rescue helicopter services, ensuring crews can continue to respond to emergencies, search and rescue missions, and critical patient transfers throughout our region.
Where is the event held?
Run the Runway takes place on the Tauranga Airport runway.
Participants should arrive at the event village located opposite Classic Flyers for registration, entertainment and event activities before the run begins.
What is the Funway?
The Funway is our pre-event entertainment area, open from 4.00pm. It features:
- Free activities and giveaways
- Live music
- Food vendors
- Licensed bar
- Supoorter activations
- Family-friendly entertainment
It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere before heading onto the runway.
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking will be available for registered participants and their families.
Please follow event signage and staff directions on arrival.
Can I register on the day?
No. There will be no registrations available on event day.
All participants must register online before registrations close.
What should I wear?
We recommend comfortable activewear and suitable walking or running shoes. As temperatures can cool after sunset, you may wish to bring an extra layer for before or after the event.
Will food and drinks be available?
Yes. A variety of food and beverage vendors will be available throughout the evening, as well as a licensed bar for attendees aged 18 years and over.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Participant safety is our highest priority. Should adverse weather affect the event, updates will be communicated through email, social media and the event website.
Can I get a refund if I can no longer attend?
Entry fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated in the event terms and conditions.
How can I contact the event team?
If you have any questions, we'd love to hear from you.
Email: fundraising@rescue.org.nz
What distance is the course?
The course is 5 kilometres in length and is suitable for runners and walkers of all abilities.
Is this a timed event?
Yes. Participants will receive an event bib equipped with timing technology that records their individual finish time, providing accurate race results.
Do I have to run?
No. Participants are welcome to run, jog or walk the course at their own pace.
Is the event suitable for families?
Absolutely. Run the Runway is a family-friendly event and welcomes participants of all ages.
What time does the run start?
A mandatory safety briefing will take place at approximately 7.00pm.
Participants will then make their way onto the runway, with the event commencing shortly afterwards to take advantage of the stunning sunset conditions.
Why is there a safety briefing?
As the event takes place on an operational airport runway, all participants must attend the safety briefing and follow instructions from event staff and airport personnel.
Can family and friends attend?
Yes. Family and friends are welcome to attend and enjoy the Funway entertainment and cheer participants on during the event.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes. Strollers are welcome. We simply ask participants to be mindful of other runners and walkers on the course.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs and other pets are not permitted on the runway.
How can I fundraise?
Participants are encouraged to raise additional funds by sharing their fundraising page with friends, family and colleagues. Every dollar raised helps keep rescue helicopter crews ready to respond when every second counts.
How can my business get involved?
We welcome sponsorships, prize donations, corporate teams and volunteer support. Please visit our Sponsorship page or contact our team to learn more.
