100m, 200m, 1.2km, 2.5km, 3.8km, 5km & 10km
100m, 200m, 1.2km, 2.5km, 3.8km, 5km & 10km
The Ruby is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking open water swim events, set against the jaw-dropping alpine backdrop of Lake Wānaka, where crystal-clear waters meet snow-dusted peaks and postcard views stretch in every direction. It’s pure swimspiration, wrapped in South Island charm.
With swim options for all ages and abilities, including a 200m dash for the kids, the classic 1.2km “Dash Around the Bay,” and the mighty 10km Ruby50, you can choose your challenge and soak up the scenery with every stroke. But it’s the signature 2.5km “Ruby” that steals the show. This iconic swim takes you around the picture-perfect Ruby Island, offering a unique blend of adventure, achievement, and alpine magic.
It’s not just the course that makes this event special; it’s the atmosphere. You’ll find a buzzing crowd, supportive volunteers, and a festival-like vibe that celebrates movement, nature, and community in equal measure. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, ticking off a bucket-list swim, or just floating your way through paradise, The Ruby delivers an experience you’ll never forget.
Think clean mountain air, chilly but invigorating water, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget you’re even racing. This is more than a swim; it’s a visual feast, a test of will, and a celebration of swimming in its most spectacular form. Stick around for a lakeside picnic, local food trucks, or a post-swim hot chocolate while you dry off in the Wānaka sun.
Perfect for kids, newbies, or anyone keen for a splash and a smile. The Mint is all about confidence, fun, and getting a taste of open water magic, set in the shallow, sparkling shores of Lake Wānaka.
A scenic out-and-back that gives swimmers a taste of adventure without going full island mode. The Island is ideal for those building their distance or just keen to enjoy the alpine beauty at a cruisy pace.
This one’s a classic. The Jetty takes you from shore to island and back, tracing the southern flank of Ruby Island. It’s the perfect mid-distance challenge, approachable, picturesque, and always popular.
The main event and namesake swim, The Ruby is a full loop around Ruby Island in stunning Lake Wānaka. With clean, clear water and mountain views in every direction, it’s a bucket-list swim that’s as breathtaking as it is rewarding.
Training for a tri? Or just keen to conquer a classic? The Iron Ruby is a full Ironman-distance swim in a setting that’s anything but ordinary. One and a half laps of Ruby Island, cool glacial water, and the magic of Lake Wānaka all in one go. It’s smooth, scenic, and seriously satisfying.
The Ruby5 is a double dose of alpine beauty, two full laps around iconic Ruby Island in Lake Wānaka. With crisp, clear water and a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this 5km swim is the perfect blend of challenge and scenery. A must-do for distance swimmers chasing a memorable middle-distance hit-out.
The Ruby10 is not for the faint of heart. This 10km epic is the ultimate alpine challenge, four full laps of the stunning Ruby Island circuit in the glacial waters of Lake Wānaka. Swimmers start and finish at the shores of Glendhu Bay, tackling each lap with Ruby Island as their sentinel. With each circuit, the scenic drama unfolds, jagged peaks, mirror-like water, and the occasional cheer from support crews and paddle escorts along the way.
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.
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