Details for 2024's event are being worked on now – follow us on social media for updates!

How it works

PLAN YOUR RUN ROUTE

You can run or walk with friends (no need to register). Alternatively, use the FIND A CLUB function to see if there's a group run near you that you can join. 

GET THE
WORD OUT

Invite your friends! Clubs involved on the day/at the weekend, please register – we'll send you imagery for social media posts and add you to our club map.

RUN AND
SHARE PICS!

Get out there and enjoy! Let's flood social media with positive images of the #BigMorningRun, encouraging people to #BeActive and support #MHAWNZ.

Get out there and enjoy! Let's flood social media with positive images of the #BigMorningRun, encouraging people to #BeActive for #MHAWNZ.

Get running
after work

/evening

More of a night owl? No worries at all! Grab your besties and hit the road after work. Alternatively, some clubs are meeting in the evening so you can join in with them. Don't miss the chance to run off the stresses of the day, chat, bond, and reward yourself with a well-earned drink after all those strides.

It's all about community connection, supporting each other side by side, making us all happier and stronger individuals.

Running has given me so much and made my life immeasurably better. Let's get out there and show all of New Zealand the positive impact it can have on mental health.

Improves sleep

Running in the morning helps to boost melatonin levels in your body, something that's essential for a better quality of sleep. Getting a good night’s sleep has been shown to be vital in helping to maintain good mental health.

Combats depression

Running releases various key endorphins – ‘happy chemicals’ – which create feelings of happiness and euphoria. It also reduces the stress hormone cortisol. This is a key factor in maintaining good mental health and reducing anxiety.

Aids metabolism

Running stimulates your metabolism, helping you burn calories, and can even help suppress your appetite after you run. The effects on metabolism have been shown to be especially beneficial first thing in the morning.

Reduces stress

Running floods your body with hormones like norepinephrine and dopamine, helping reduce the stress hormone cortisol, giving you a more positive mood. It can also create new brain cells and improve overall brain performance.

Boosts immune system

Running is great for so many parts of your body, from the heart to the brain and the immune system. It restores elasticity to arteries, making them behave younger, aids brain function and helps boost the immune system.

Improves self-esteem

Improving fitness has been shown to boost self-esteem and positive self-image. Regardless of who you are, exercise can quickly elevate our perception of self-worth – it helps you feel happy within yourself.