Whitianga will set the stage for a bucket list sporting event next year, with a half marathon and related events catering to just about every level of fitness.

Disciplines include a 21km half marathon around the Whitianga beachfront, estuary and township, a 10km and a 5km run or walk option and a 2km kids' beach dash.

The event is being organised by Whitianga business owner Kelly Simmonds, a mother of two and owner of Salt Restaurant and the Whitianga Hotel.

Kelly recently got fit as she trained for and participated in running events at Taupo, Mount Maunganui, and through the vineyards of Blenheim in the past year.

She says she realised these sorts of events were beneficial for a town by drawing visitors at any time of the year, and they were also a lot of fun.

'I wondered why Whitianga didn't have one. So over a few wines I decided I was going to do it.”

Kelly is part of a fitness group in Whitianga and will be offering profits from the event to local volunteer groups that get involved. She has already secured sponsorship from The Lost Spring, Whitianga New World, Whitianga Waterways and Whitianga Hotel.

'It's a weekend away, it's a mate's trip, and you get your exercise in and celebrate that night. It's a good little escape,” she says, speaking of the event.

'There's something for everyone and the course is all flat, so hopefully it appeals to families and people wanting to have a go at something new. We are planning now for May next year, so there's heaps of time!”

Anyone interested in assisting Kelly with aspects of the event, set to take place on May 26, 2018, can contact her at info@whitiangahalfmarathon.co.nz.

More details can be found on the website www.whitiangahalfmarathon.co.nz.