General Information

28th of February 2026

This iconic open water swimming event caters for a wide range of swimming abilities and has been running for over 60 Years!

This iconic Taupō event is sponsored and organised by Lake Taupō Rotary, with any proceeds from the day going towards community projects in the region.

Quick Facts

  1. Online entries only by Friday 27th February 2026.

  2. Late entries cost an extra $20 and can only be done online. No cash or EFTPOS entries can be accepted at Registration on the Friday.

  3. There is strictly NO entries accepted on the day!

  4. Entry Fee includes transport from Three Mile Bay to Acacia Bay and a well-deserved post-event soup & bun.

  5. Transport: For the 4.2km swim, you can leave your vehicle at the finish line at Three Mile Bay and catch the free bus to the start at Acacia Bay.

  6. Drop bags will be transferred from Acacia Bay to the finish at Three Mile Bay.

  7. Lake conditions in February are typically around 15 deg C but swimming conditions on the day may vary depending on weather.

  8. Swimming time for 4.2km is typically between 55 to 90 minutes apart from a few swimmers who in the past have taken 2 hours.

  9. Medals/plaques are awarded for places. All finishers receive an event medal.

  10. Placement Medals/plaques will be presented after the final swimmer has left the water and the results have been collated. Event medals will be given as swimmers exit the water. Spot prizes will be given if the awarded participants are present at the prize giving.

FAQs

  • The total cut off time is 2 hours.  All swimmers must make the half way buoy (2.1km) in a time of 60 minutes and finish the swim in 2 hours.    The Event Director reserves the right to let a swimmer continue if they are very close to this cut off time.

  • The 4.2km event is  supported by safety vessels, kayaks, marker buoys and numerous officials and event personel.  If you are at all nervous, please let an official know at the start of the event or arrange for your own personal kayaker to stay with you.  Above all else - Don't panic!

  • Full length wetsuits are compulsory for the 4.2km swim.

    Full length or half-length wetsuits are required for 1km or 2km swims.

    Neoprene or similar and 1.5mm thick for all wetsuits.

  • You will be given a transponder at registration that you are responsible for.  If you lose this before the start of race and issued an replacement, you are still liable for the replacement cost of $50.   Please take the time to ensure it is fitted correctly before the event, placing your wetsuit over to safe guard as well.  If this does come off in the lake, please notify the finish officals as soon as you cross the line.  The replacement cost will still stand.