Event FAQs

How do I know I am entered?

Your confirmation email was sent to the email address you provided on your entry form. Please check your junk mail/spam folder. For any queries, please contact us at info@oceanswim.co.nz.

What time does my swim start and from where?

Please refer to the “Timetable” on this webpage.

Can I change my estimated swim time?

Yes, you can change this by emailing us at info@oceanswim.co.nz at least 10 days before the event.

How do I wear the timing chip?

Thread the strap through the timing chip and fasten the strap securely around your ankle. If you lose it, you will be liable for a replacement cost of $30.

Once you have completed the event your chip is collected at the finish line.

If you have a problem fastening your timing chip just ask one of the event officials on event day, they will be able to assist you.

Are there entry limits for the events?

Yes. For safety reasons, there is a maximum number of participants allowed at each event. Enter early to avoid disappointment.

Can I enter on the day?

Yes, providing entries haven’t sold out online prior. We recommend you enter online to avoid disappointment. Please note, there will be no entries on the day for Swim the Bridge.

How can I see the results?

Results will be published on the event website on the evening of each event. A certificate can also be downloaded from this results page.

A ‘Start Group’ is where you will start your swim. There are different start groups and these are based on how long it takes you to complete your swim. Each different start group will have a different colour cap and will start approx. 45 seconds apart to ease congestion at the start of the swim.

I still have my timing chip – what do I do?

If you have taken it home by mistake, please post it back to us at the following address:

Attention Ocean Swim
2099 Pakowhai Road
RD3
Napier 4183

Note that if you are taking part in 3 or more events this season, you can keep your timing chip to use at all of your events over the Summer. Please return your timing chip to us following the final event that you are taking part in.

If it’s cold, can I swim with booties/skull cap/gloves?

It has been approved the use of the following:

wetsuit booties
skull caps (your event swim cap must be worn over the skull cap and must remain visible for the duration of the race)
wetsuit gloves (must NOT be webbed)

What happens in bad weather?

A decision to run with the contingency plan for the ocean swims will be made in the event of bad weather or circumstances beyond the control of the event management. The Race Director in conjunction with Surf Life Saving New Zealand will make this decision on race morning in the interest of your safety. Updates will be given to you on race morning. For contingency decisions made the day prior – please check our website home page & event page as well as your own email inbox for the latest information.

What happens if I have difficulties in the water?

Simple! Stop! Raise your arm high into the air to identify yourself to a lifeguard. If this is not possible, simply roll on to your back to float in a relaxed position. If you are near an athlete experiencing difficulties, please make sure they are alright, assist if necessary, and alert a lifeguard.

Can I get a refund or transfer my entry to another event?

As per our Terms & Conditions, refunds are not available. However registrations can be transferred across to another event this season.

If the transfer is arranged within 7 days of event online entries closing, 50% of the registration fee can be transferred across.

If the transfer is arranged prior to 7 days out from event online entries closing, 75% of the registration fee can be transferred across.

Please contact us at info@oceanswim.co.nz to arrange a transfer of your event registration.

I don’t feel ready for my event, could I transfer to another swim distance?

Yes you can choose to transfer your entry across to a smaller distance, in the same event. Please contact us at info@oceanswim.co.nz to transfer your event registration.

Do I need a wetsuit?

Although not compulsory, we suggest wearing a wetsuit for the long ocean swim distances.

Find out more about purchasing or hiring a wetsuit for the event here.