The pair went across the road and had a coffee to celebrate the achievement, which turned out to be the last time they would do that after an event.
"Mum passed away in September 2013 from cancer so this Half Marathon is a sentimental event for me now. I think about Mum every day," she said.
Brunton has been training hard for the Tauhara Trail Run on July 6. She is part of a bunch of girls running the event, some of whom have also lost their mothers to cancer. She expects it will be a bonding experience.
"For me it's a statement to myself that I am alive and I am healthy. These days, it's that simple. With some of mum's friends at the finish line to greet me, it will be a moment tinged with sadness but also gratefulness."
The local has been training four days per week, running for an hour each day. She said that losing her mum has given her a different perspective on life.
"We have to make the most of life. I always had that youthful attitude of longevity and invincibility, but that has changed now. After the brief battle that mum had, I've learnt that life is for living, as you really don't know what's around the corner.
"But also to accept that 'It is what it is!' There are some things you just can't change, no matter how much you wish you could.
"It was my mother's phrase whilst in hospital, which, alongside her strength, her dignity, her utter selflessness and acceptance of her situation, serves as my ongoing source of strength and inspiration."
Her mum has also been an inspiration in life. She left a legacy behind in the form of the company Haumanu Products Ltd.
She had developed a range of Kawakawa products that were "just too good to let slip away".
After she her mother passed away Brunton resigned from her job in the UK so that she could continue the business.
Brunton has put a sporting twist on the business as they now offer a Chamois Balm and Anti-Chafing Balm that is proving to be a hit with cyclists, triathletes, Ironman athletes and runners.
"It's just a great, natural product and I know Mum will be rapt to see it carry on," she said.
She would also love to see her daughter run again. Brunton, who completed the Scotland Coast to Coast in 2011, cannot wait to make her debut in the Tauhara Trail Run. She loves the freedom trail running offers.
"I love mountains, the NZ bush and the stunning views that I constantly encounter in this beautiful country, so trail running is all of that rolled into one! It is bliss!
After living in London for so long, it's so peaceful. Also, the surface is softer on my joints."
