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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes. Parking will be available for registered participants and their families.

Please follow event signage and staff directions on arrival.

No. There will be no registrations available on event day.

All participants must register online before registrations close.

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.

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.

Participant safety is our highest priority. Should adverse weather affect the event, updates will be communicated through email, social media and the event website.

Entry fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated in the event terms and conditions.

If you have any questions, we'd love to hear from you.

Email: fundraising@rescue.org.nz

The course is 5 kilometres in length and is suitable for runners and walkers of all abilities.

Yes. Participants will receive an event bib equipped with timing technology that records their individual finish time, providing accurate race results.

No. Participants are welcome to run, jog or walk the course at their own pace.

Absolutely. Run the Runway is a family-friendly event and welcomes participants of all ages.

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.

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.

Yes. Family and friends are welcome to attend and enjoy the Funway entertainment and cheer participants on during the event.

Yes. Strollers are welcome. We simply ask participants to be mindful of other runners and walkers on the course.

Unfortunately, dogs and other pets are not permitted on the runway.

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.

We welcome prize donations, corporate teams, in kind support and volunteer assistance. To enter a team, or to discuss donations, prizes, in kind support or partnership opportunities, please email fundraise@rescue.org.nz.