Runners and walkers set to take on Mount Maunganui by twilight.

Runners and walkers will be taking on Mount Maunganui at We Run the Night this Saturday.

Established in 2017, the distances include a run or walk ​21km half marathon, 11km, 5.5km and a 2.5km kids and prams dash.

Runners and walkers are encouraged to get friends and family together, dress up and get active. It is an event for everyone with male and female age groups up to 60+. 

60+ age group 21km walker, Dianne Mannington is participating in the We Run the Night 21km half marathon event for the second time.

Mannington has been a volunteer  for the Heart Foundation for 19 years and has helped with the Heart Appeal groups and other events. She coordinated Tauranga Heart Support group for 12 years and is now Director/Aerobic Instructor for her business Body+Soul Fitness for over 50’s. 

She says she is passionate about staying active and leading a healthy lifestyle.

“I want to finish with a good time and want to inspire others in my age group.”

Mannington participated in the New York marathon in 2017, and Sydney Marathon in 2018. She plans to participate in the Boston Marathon and Rotorua Marathon this year.

“My preparation has been on the flat, around and up the Mount and hills, and Body+Soul Fitness classes.” 

Mannington said it is an event she returns to because it is local and at a good time of the day to run.

The event is starting and finishing in the new urban space Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka. It is the first event to take place in the new space. The pre event atmosphere will include live music, a Barrett Homes kids’ chill out zone, HOPT soda tasting and more. 

With a good weather forecast for Saturday, conditions look ideal for the events starting at 5pm.