ASICS, the world’s leading running shoe brand, and Running Events (REV), a major independent event organiser based in Auckland, New Zealand, have announced a partnership which will see them working together until at least 2028. At the core of the agreement, REV’s premier property will be named the ASICS Waterfront Half Marathon, starting with the 2026 edition to be held on April 12^th. The event attracted over four thousand entrants in 2025, making it the third-largest mass-participation sporting event in the upper North Island.

The announcement comes as REV reveals seismic changes to the Waterfront Half Marathon with a stunning new single-lap course taking runners into the heart of Downtown Auckland. A new venue will also be christened in 2026 as the race moves to Vellenoweth Green in St Heliers.

“It’s a game-changer,” Race Director Rob Docherty said. “There is no other brand we want the public to associate more with the Waterfront Half Marathon than ASICS . We strongly believe the  ASICS Waterfront Half Marathon to be the premier half marathon event in New Zealand and there is no more appropriate title sponsor for that than the premier running shoe brand in the world.

“ASICS will bring prestige, increased national and international attention and true marketing muscle to the event. The team at ASICS have assured us that they are ‘all in’ on the ASICS Waterfront Half Marathon and we cannot wait to share it all with our participants.”

“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Running Events,” Matt Wallace, Sports Marketing Manager for ASICS New Zealand said. “At ASICS, our ethos is built on the belief that sport has the power to uplift both body and mind, and this event is the perfect stage to bring that to life. Together, we look forward to inspiring runners of all levels to experience the joy, energy, and movement that running can bring.

“Rob, Jase and the REV team have been very accommodating throughout the process allowing us to bring the ASICS ethos alive. We look forward to the start of a long-term relationship and seeing you on the start line in 2026.”

Entries for the 2026 Waterfront Half Marathon will go on sale at https://waterfront.werun.nz  from 9am on Wednesday, October 1st.

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The ASICS Waterfront Half Marathon is owned and operated by Running Events, one of the largest independent event organisers in New Zealand. First held in 2018, the Waterfront Half has grown to become the third-largest mass-participation sporting event in the upper North Island. For more information on Running Events, see werun.nz.