Wellington Open Water Series - Oriental Bay

About the race

The Wellington Open Water Series at Oriental Bay is a quintessential Kiwi summer experience, blending the vibrant energy of New Zealand’s capital with the refreshing allure of the Pacific. Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Oriental Bay is the city’s most beloved urban beach, characterized by its golden sands and the stunning backdrop of the capital’s skyline and surrounding hills. While the series often showcases various coastal gems, the Oriental Bay venue is a highlight for its accessibility and the protected, turquoise waters that provide a fantastic stage for open water enthusiasts of all levels.

Organized by Swimming Wellington, this series is deeply rooted in the local community, fostering a culture of health, confidence, and camaraderie in the water. Whether you are a competitive swimmer aiming to test your endurance or a recreational enthusiast looking for a unique way to start your weekend, the event offers a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the friendly spirit of Wellington. The multi-distance format—ranging from a gentle 500m for those new to the sport or younger swimmers, up to a challenging 5km for seasoned marathon swimmers—makes it a true family-friendly occasion. The event is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone from elite athletes to weekend warriors feels empowered to take the plunge.

Beyond the physical challenge, participating in this event is an invitation to immerse yourself in the unique coastal lifestyle of the Wellington region. After your swim, you’ll find that the city’s compact size makes it incredibly easy to {{link:accommodations|find a comfortable place to stay}} just moments away from the water. With the race typically held during the peak of the New Zealand summer, the water temperature is inviting, and the post-race energy on the beach is infectious. Once you’ve crossed the finish line, you’ll have the perfect excuse to {{link:experiences|explore the vibrant local culture}}, from the world-class café scene and craft breweries to the breathtaking walks along the nearby Miramar Peninsula. Whether you are a local or traveling from abroad, this race is a fantastic way to experience the best of Wellington’s maritime charm.

Course

Percorso in mare presso Oriental Bay, Wellington. Gara spostata da Scorching Bay per condizioni meteo. Distanze: 5km, 2.5km, 1.25km e 500m. Area di partenza/arrivo su spiaggia sabbiosa.

How to get there

Aeroporto di Wellington (WLG) a 6km. La stazione ferroviaria di Wellington dista 2km. Oriental Bay è raggiungibile a piedi dal centro o con bus (linee 1, 2, 3). Parcheggio limitato lungo Oriental Parade; si consiglia di arrivare presto o usare parcheggi a pagamento nel CBD.