More than 6,000 people are set take on the Christchurch Marathon, so plan your journey ahead if you’re heading into the central city.

Road closures will be in place this Sunday, 13 April, clearing the way for runners taking on the ultimate challenge. Four events will be held across the day: the marathon, half marathon, 10km distance and the Kids’ Mara’fun.

Event Director Calum Nicholson says the 10.55km loop course has the same footprint as last year, with some minor changes. “Ōtautahi is really becoming well known around the world as a vibrant place to come, and people are seeing the Christchurch Marathon as a destination event.

“This year will be the largest Christchurch Marathon event ever held, with the city welcoming thousands of participants and their supporters, not just from the local area but from around NZ and internationally.”

Competitors will set off by the Armagh Street bridge – near the event HQ in North Hagley Park – and head southbound along Rolleston Avenue, before following the Ōtākaro Avon River northeast through city streets as far as Fitzgerald Avenue. The course then heads west and circles North Hagley Park, partially on-street this year via Harper Avenue where westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane.

Traffic management will be in place from 4am to 3pm (see map below), with signposted detours around the road closures. The arterial avenues – Moorhouse, Fitzgerald, Bealey and Harper/Deans – are the best way for people to travel around the closures.

People coming into the city are advised to allow more travel time and approach from the east or south. The Crossing, Lichfield Street and Hereford Street parking buildings are all accessible.

“It’s a wonderfully festive event that makes you feel proud to call Ōtautahi home. We hope everyone giving it a go will have a great run and a fun experience,” Christchurch City Council Events and Arts Manager Lucy Blackmore says.

“Friends and family are encouraged to walk, bike or scooter into the closure area and support participants and local businesses. Three recommended spectator spots are marked on the map for those keen to see the action up close.”

Bus services will continue to operate but may experience short delays around the CBD. Some bus routes will have detours in place with changes to bus stops around the road closure area.

Find more information at the following links:

• Full list of (citywide) road closures on the Council website

• Marathon-specific road closures on the Christchurch Marathon website

• Event information on the Marathon website

• Bus service information on the Metro website