The main feature of the event is the crossing of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, which involves a climb of 33 metres to the highest point.

[5] The Harbour Bridge crossing was the brainchild of Rendell McIntosh, a 1974 British Commonwealth Games 400 metres hurdles competitor.

The initial bridge crossing event attracted over 3,000 entrants, had 500 accredited media and a budget of $450,000.

The 2020 edition of the race, held on 1 November 2020, was notable for being one of the only large marathons in the world that was held during a time when many other countries were suffering through the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic, as the effective coronavirus management protocols in New Zealand allowed thousands of runners to compete in the race.

[8][9][10][11] The course begins in the seaside suburb of Devonport on the North Shore and travels through Takapuna and Northcote before crossing the Harbour Bridge and heading towards the finish line at Victoria Park.