250m, 500m , 1km, 2.5km, 5km & 10km
250m, 500m , 1km, 2.5km, 5km & 10km
Freshwater Swim Fest is New Zealand’s largest open water swimming festival, a brand new two-day event at Pupukemoana (Lake Pupuke) on Auckland’s North Shore. It’s not just a swim. It’s a full festival weekend, live music, food trucks, family zones, and an atmosphere that runs all weekend long.
With distances from 250m to 10km, three national championships, a 4 x 500m relay, and even the NZ Doggy Swimming Championships, Freshwater Swim Fest has been built for every kind of swimmer, from first-timers giving open water a go for the first time to national champions chasing a title.
If you’re an Australian swimmer looking for your next adventure, this is one worth getting on a plane for. Full travel packages are available from all major cities across Australia, flights, transfers, accommodation, and event entry all taken care of.
New to open water swimming or looking for a great introduction for younger swimmers? The 250M is the perfect place to start. It’s relaxed, supported, and a fun first experience on the lake at Pupukemoana.
Ready to go a little further? The 500M is a brilliant introduction to open water swimming, equivalent to 20 lengths of a 25M pool and comfortably achievable for most swimmers with a bit of preparation. It’s a great next step whether you’re building confidence or just want a longer experience on the lake at Pupukemoana.
The 1km is where open water swimming starts to get really rewarding. Equivalent to 40 lengths of a 25m pool, this is a satisfying challenge for swimmers who have some experience under their belt and are ready to push a little further on the lake at Pupukemoana. This event is open to all recreational swimmers. This event incorporates the NZ Secondary Schools Open Water 1,000m Championships.
The 2.5k is the heart of Freshwater Swim Fest – our most popular distance and the one that brings together the biggest field of the weekend. Equivalent to 100 lengths of a 25M pool, it’s a genuine achievement for every swimmer who crosses the finish line. This event is open to all recreational swimmers. This event incorporates the NZ Open Water 2.5k Championships, the NZ Secondary Schools Open Water 2.5k Championships & the NZ Masters Open Water 2.5k Championships.
The 5k is for swimmers who know what they’re capable of and want to test themselves over a serious distance. Equivalent to 200 lengths of a 25m pool, this is a distance that requires preparation, pacing and rewards you with one of the most satisfying finishes of the weekend. This event is open to all recreational swimmers. This event incorporates the NZ Swimming Open Water 5k Championships.
The 7.5k is a serious undertaking, equivalent to 300 lengths of a 25m pool and a genuine test of endurance, focus, and determination. If you’ve conquered shorter distances and you’re ready to see what you’re truly made of, this is your swim. This event is open to all recreational swimmers. This event incorporates the NZ Swimming Open Water 7.5k Championships.
The 10k is the pinnacle of Freshwater Swim Fest and the Olympic open water swimming distance, equivalent to 400 lengths of a 25m pool and one of the most demanding challenges you can take on in the water. This is a swim that will test everything you have: your fitness, your mental strength, and your love of the water. This event is open to all recreational swimmers. This event incorporates the NZ Open Water 10k Championships.
The 4 x 500m Relay is one of the most social and exciting events of the weekend. Grab your friends, family or squad members and take on Pupukemoana as a team. Each swimmer tackles 500m, equivalent to 20 lengths of a 25m pool, making it a brilliant option for those looking for a shared challenge.
Pupukemoana (Lake Pupuke) is a calm, sheltered freshwater lake on Auckland’s North Shore. In February, expect water temperatures around 20–22°C. Warm, comfortable, and perfect for open water swimming. The lake is sheltered from wind and swell, making it an ideal environment for swimmers of all levels, from first-timers to experienced open water athletes.
The course is well-marked with buoys and supported by a dedicated water safety team including SLSNZ lifeguards on the water at all times across both days.
Swim cap
A Freshwater Swim Fest swim cap is included with every entry and must be worn during your swim.
Timing chip
Every swimmer receives a timing chip at registration. This must be worn during your swim and returned at the finish line.
Goggles
Not compulsory but strongly recommended. Check out our goggle guide on the Prepare page for help choosing the right pair for open water swimming.
Whether it’s your first open water swim or you’re a seasoned open water swimmer, Freshwater Swim Fest is a safe, supported, and welcoming environment. There’s no pressure, just pick your distance, get in the water, and enjoy it.
Have A Go: 1km Training Program
Whether you’re coming back after a long break or you’re completely new to swimming, we’ll help you prepare for your 1km swim. Learn more
Up The Ante: 2km Training Program
Step up in distance with this training program designed to build you up & guide you all the way to the finish. Learn more
Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.
Sylvan Park sits just a short distance from Takapuna Beach and town centre, one of Auckland’s most popular North Shore destinations with plenty to keep you busy before and after your swim.
Eat and drink
Takapuna is packed with great cafes, restaurants, and bars. Grab a coffee at Takapuna Beach Cafe, explore the restaurants along Hurstmere Road, or head to the Takapuna Night Markets if you’re there on a Thursday evening.
Explore
The coastal walk between Takapuna and Milford Beach is a stunning 2km stroll along the Hauraki Gulf, well worth doing the day before the event. Rangitoto Island views, volcanic rock pools, and pohutukawa trees line the route.
Stay
Takapuna has a great range of accommodation options from boutique hotels to apartments and Airbnb, all within easy reach of Sylvan Park.
Getting around Auckland
Auckland’s AT Hop card is the easiest way to get around on buses and trains. Pick one up at the airport or at convenience stores across the city. Alternatively, Uber and ride-share services are widely available.
Reviews
No results available
Copyright © 1999-2026 oceanswims.com. All rights reserved.
‘OCEANFIT is a registered trademark of OceanFit Pty Ltd.
