Friends Bruce Anderson and Peter Gill were enjoying some wine and fish and chips when they came up with an idea for a half marathon.

That was in 1987 and Massey Athletic Club's Whenuapai half marathon has been running ever since.

"It was one of those things that happened, we both sat down and said it is about time we did something for the district," Mr Anderson says.

"Then one thing led to another and I actually ended up running the marathon 19 years straight."

The 63-year-old is a little surprised that a race he helped create has lasted so long.

"It is probably one of the more pleasurable things I have done in my life and it is great it has expanded from just a marathon to fun runs and walks."

The 21.1km race will begin at Whenuapai School on Sunday and sees the runners make their way around Herald Island and the Royal New Zealand Air Force base.

Five different events will be held including a 6km and 10km fun run and walk.

Mr Anderson isn't running the course anymore but he's expecting to be involved on the day.

"I'm going to turn up and probably hand out a prize or two. Otherwise my grandkids are going to do one of the fun runs so Poppa has to turn up and do some cheering."The course is magnificent and the whole upper harbour adds something to the event."

All funds raised will go toward the club's summer children's athletics programme.

Organiser Pia Wittwer is expecting around 550 runners to take part in the event.

"We usually get another 160 turning up on the day so it should be great," Ms Wittwer says.

"It is the only fundraiser event for our club and it does make fees more affordable for families. I think we are proud of that fact and there aren't many events that have been going for 25 consecutive years."

Late entries will be allowed on the day from 6.30am at the school with the first event starting at 7.30am.

Go to whenuapaihalf.co.nz for more information.

- © Fairfax NZ News