Somes Island Challenge
- Mar 7, 2027
- Distances from 500m to 5km
At a glance
- Next edition date
- March 7, 2027
- Distances
- 500 m · 1.3 km · 2.5 km · 5 km
- Where
- Sea · Petone Foreshore / Lowry Bay, Petone, Wellington, New Zealand
About the race
The Petone Amateur Swimming Club organizes sea swimming training sessions during the summer months, offering a safe and guided environment for swimmers. The sessions take place in the sheltered waters of Lowry Bay or at Petone Beach, with constant support from club kayakers to ensure the safety of participants.
These training sessions are designed to help members build their confidence in open water and prepare for open water swimming events. Although the club is historically associated with the Matiu (Somes) Island Swim, the text specifies that it was not possible to organize this event for the 2026 edition.
Sources: Cook Strait
Course
Point-to-point swim from Somes Island wharf to Petone Beach.
How to get there
The adventure begins with a ferry ride from Queens Wharf or Days Bay Wharf out to Somes Island.
Somes Island Challenge
Frequently asked questions
- When is Somes Island Challenge?
- Somes Island Challenge takes place on March 7, 2027.
- What distances does Somes Island Challenge offer?
- Somes Island Challenge offers 500 m, 1.3 km, 2.5 km, and 5 km.
- Where does Somes Island Challenge take place?
- Somes Island Challenge is a sea swim. Location: Petone Foreshore / Lowry Bay, Petone, Wellington, New Zealand.
Where to stay
Petone offers a blend of historic seaside cottages and modern boutique stays near the Esplanade. Expect a range of options from simple beachside hostels at $80-$120 per night to contemporary boutique hotels overlooking the harbour ranging from $200-$350 per night. Many visitors choose to stay in central Wellington, just a 15-minute drive away, where high-rise hotels provide extensive amenities for the race weekend.
Things to do nearby
Beyond the water, the Petone foreshore is ideal for walking and cycling. The area is rich in industrial heritage, with local galleries and cafes housed in converted warehouses. For those wanting more time on the water, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for exploring the quieter coves of the harbour. Alternatively, a short trip to the nearby hills offers extensive hiking trails with panoramic views of the entire Wellington region and the South Island across the water.
Swimmers
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