As the alpine village gears up for the 40-plus-year tradition that is the Hanmer Half Marathon, Four Square Hanmer Springs was at the heart of the action as the event’s major sponsor.
The Hanmer Half is among the town’s highly anticipated annual events, offering 21 km, 10.5 km options that cater to runners and walkers of all fitness levels. Established in 1981, the event has evolved into a local tradition, held annually on the first weekend of May.
This year, the 42nd Hanmer Half will take place on Saturday, 3rd May, and is expected to attract over 1,500 people from around the country, including Christchurch, Nelson, the West Coast, Northland, and as far away as the UK, Ireland, Australia, and even Kenya.
This year’s course has promised an even more spectacular experience, with a new route that begins with the Conical Hill climb and winds through the stunning Hanmer Springs Heritage Forest.
Four Square Hanmer Springs owner-operators John Dawber and Annie Truman, originally from Christchurch, have called Hanmer Springs home for nearly a decade.
“We had a holiday home here, got married here, and then moved here not long after,” said Dawber.
Four Square Hanmer Springs has been a sponsor of the Hanmer Half for over 20 years, and this year, the store is contributing more than NZD 10,000 in products, giveaways, and on-the-day support.
Annie Truman and her two daughters, Ella and Katie, will be at the Four Square recovery station ready to hand out drinks and snacks to competitors after they cross the finish line.
“Being able to support the Hanmer Half and give back to this incredible community means a lot to us,” said Truman.
Store manager Diana Williams will also participate in the event this year, running alongside her husband and son.
A portion of each entry fee is donated to the Hanmer Springs Community Trust, which hosts the annual event and gives back to the community through the Hanmer Springs Health Centre, local schools, and other grassroots groups.
“The whole town gets involved. It’s the biggest local sporting event of the year, and with the new route going right through the town centre, including a full main street closure, it’ll bring some great energy to Hanmer, especially during a traditionally quieter month like May.”
Nduro Events has redesigned the course to highlight Hanmer’s best trails, improving the running experience while showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
“The new and improved Hanmer Half will only add to what the region is already known for – epic scenery, warm hospitality, and great events,” said Nduro Events co-owner and race director Tim Farmer.
Whether you’re running, cheering, or volunteering, the 2025 Hanmer Half promises to be a standout event in the alpine town’s calendar, with Four Square Hanmer Springs right at the heart of it.
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