The Mount Swim

NZ Ocean Swim Series

How to enter

Organisers, get your event featured

At a glance

Sat, 18 Apr 2026

Main Beach, Mount Maunganui NZ

Ocean Swim

100m, 200m, 500m, 1.25km & 2.8km

Around A Feature
Around The Buoys

Why this event?

Take the plunge at one of New Zealand’s best day-out swims.

The Mount Swim is the very definition of classic Kiwi ocean swimming. With Mauao (Mount Maunganui) watching over you, this event blends stunning coastal scenery, family-friendly energy, and a satisfying mix of swim distances for every ability.

From kids taking their first 500m dip, to seasoned swimmers looping around the Mount’s rocky base in the 2.6km ‘Around The Mount’ feature swim, this event is all about community, confidence, and conquering the coast.

On the day

What's on offer

100m & 200m Ocean Swim

Kids Swim

years

Perfect for junior swimmers and first-time dippers, these short-distance swims hug the shoreline of beautiful St Heliers Bay. The 100m course is a simple splash-and-dash, while the 200m adds a little extra adventure along the buoy line. With calm, shallow water and strong water safety support, it’s a fun and confidence-building intro to open water swimming, big smiles guaranteed!

500m Ocean Swim

years

This 500m swim is a fun and safe loop off Maunganui Beach, tucked just beside Leisure Island. With bright buoys marking the course and plenty of support on hand, it’s perfect for confident kids ready for a salty adventure. Whether they’re racing their mates or just cruising through the turquoise water, it’s all about having a blast!

1.25km Ocean Swim

years

This exciting 1.25km loop takes young swimmers around the iconic Leisure Island (Motuotau), giving them a taste of open water adventure in a safe, supported setting. With clear markers and calm Mount Maunganui waters, it’s a scenic and satisfying swim for confident kids ready to stretch their sea legs.

2.8km Ocean Swim

Around the Mount Swim

years

The feature swim. A point-to-point course that wraps around the volcanic rock of Mauao, finishing at Main Beach. Expect swell, scenic headlands, and a strong sense of achievement.

Prepare for this event

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.