A group of keen, well-known New Zealanders have signed up to take part in the inaugural Tauranga International Marathon this October.

TV presenters Samantha Hayes, Mike McRoberts and Mel Homer, musician Ria Hall and radio personality Mark Eagle have agreed to run all or part of the ‘flat, fast and fun' marathon.

With a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean, Tauranga Harbour, and Matakana and Rangiwaea Islands, the marathon offers 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km or 5km options, as well as a 2km kids' dash.

'There two words that every runner loves hear – flat and fast,” says Mike.

'I've had a bit of breakthrough this year with my marathon running, going for sub-four hours for the first time, and I'm really keen to keep it up. And how special to be running in the first Tauranga International Marathon!”

'I think it's important to have goals, especially as we get older, says Mark.

'Now I have to get off my butt over the cold months and go running! With a three-year-old at home, I think it's important to set an example for her, and it's a great way to clear the head after (or before) work.

'We all know Tauranga is a superb place to live, but it's also a great place for big international events. It's simply the best city in the country - just ask all those Aucklanders who now call Tauranga home!”

Tauranga International Marathon founder Aaron Carter says the support of this group of media and entertainment personalities is a real boost to the inaugural event.

'Among them, there's an inspiring mix of experience and first-timers - particularly relevant, given we've created the Tauranga International Marathon to appeal to anybody keen to give it a go.”

Tauranga International Marathon has also partnered with Live More Awesome, a non-profit charity and movement dedicated to inspiring, encouraging, informing and finding help for people struggling with their mental health. Live More Awesome's philosophy is about reinforcing everybody needs to take care of their mental health, just like their physical health.

The first female and male athlete to cross the marathon finish line respectively will receive prize money of $2000 each. Second place will nab $1000 each and third place $500.

In the half marathon, the first-placed female and male runner will each receive $1000, with second place going home with $500 and third $250.

All participants will enjoy the Tauranga International Marathon Festival at the finish line, where there will be food trucks, live entertainment and local produce on sale.