TriWānaka Swim Run Series 2027 - Jan 8th

TriWānaka proudly presents Swim Run 2027!

After an awesome series last summer, Swim Run is back for another season of fun, friendly Friday evening racing on the beautiful shores of Lake Wānaka.

Last year brought brilliant turnouts, plenty of first-time racers, some impressive improvements, and lots of good energy. This year, we’re planning even more fun — with a few surprises in store along the way!

With course options for all ages, abilities, and confidence levels, Swim Run is perfect whether you’re:

• training for an event such as Challenge Wānaka and want a low-pressure way to practise open water swimming, transitions, and pacing;

• new to triathlon, duathlon, or open-water swimming and keen to get your first race experience;

• looking to build your confidence in a friendly and supportive environment; or

• simply keen for a fun summer challenge with your whānau and mates.

You’ll swim in a safe, boat-free area close to shore before heading out along Wānaka’s iconic lakeside track. Expect plenty of encouragement, a welcoming crew, and a brilliant way to kick off your weekend.

New to open water swimming?

No worries — lots of people start here.

If you’re nervous, come down early, have a chat with the crew, and choose a shorter option to start.

Our focus is on making the series safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.

Spot prizes + series awards (participation first!)

We’ll have spot prizes every week (random draws), plus a few end-of-series awards celebrating the things that really matte:

• showing up consistently;

• improving over the series;

• giving something new a go; and

• and bringing your whānau and mates along for the fun.

Keep an eye out too — we may have a few extra surprises appearing throughout the series!

A huge thank you to our local sponsors for supporting Swim Run and helping us keep the series fun, welcoming, and inclusive.

Location: Wānaka Water Sports Facility

Schedule:

• Registration opens 5:00pm

• Briefing 5:50pm

• Start 6:00pm

Please make sure you are registered and ready before the briefing.

Event options:

• Adults and Under 16:

  1200m swim + 5k run

  800m swim + 5k run

  400m swim + 2.5k run

  Swim-only: 1200m, 800m, or 400m

• Juniors Under 12:

  200m swim + 1k run

• Splash & Dash Under 7:

  100m swim + 500m run

  The swim section for the splash & dash is close to the lake edge in shallow water, allowing all participants to touch the bottom if they need to stand up.

Entry fees:

• TriWānaka members: $5

• Non-members: $10

• Under 5 Splash & Dash: $5

Payment: Pay online now or cash/online on the night.

Come along, bring your friends and whānau, and make the most of summer evenings in Wānaka. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just trying something new, we’d love to see you there!