The Ultimate Challenge: Takapuna to Long Bay and Back (40km)
Brace yourself for an epic 40km journey that showcases the very best of Auckland’s stunning North Shore. Starting at Takapuna and reaching the far end of Long Bay before heading back, this route offers an unforgettable adventure through diverse landscapes and iconic urban beauty.
Marvel at breathtaking cliff formations, stroll along pristine beaches, and navigate rugged rock pathways. Along the way, you’ll experience the unique blend of natural wonders and the vibrant energy of Auckland’s coastal urban life.
This is SwimRunning at its finest—a true test of endurance, resilience, and exploration. Are you ready to take on the ultimate challenge? The North Shore awaits!
Total Distance: 40km
Total Swim Distance: 12km
Estimated time: Advanced 6 hours, beginner 9 hours

Adventure Countdown
days
days
hours
hrs
minutes
mins
seconds
secs
# | Discipline | KM Marker | Leg Distance (km) |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Run | 0.88 | |
2 | Swim | 2.1 | 1.22 |
3 | Run | 4.1 | 2 |
4 | Swim | 5 | 0.9 |
5 | Run | 5.7 | 0.7 |
6 | Swim | 6.7 | 1 |
7 | Run | 10.3 | 3.6 |
8 | Swim | 11 | 0.7 |
9 | Run | 12.8 | 1.8 |
10 | Swim | 14 | 1.2 |
11 | Run | 16.2 | 2.2 |
12 | Swim | 17.4 | 1.2 |
13 | Run | 20 | 2.6 |
14 | Run | 22.6 | 2.6 |
15 | Swim | 23.8 | 1.2 |
16 | Run | 26 | 2.2 |
17 | Swim | 27.2 | 1.2 |
18 | Run | 29 | 1.8 |
19 | Swim | 29.7 | 0.7 |
20 | Run | 33.3 | 3.6 |
21 | Swim | 34.3 | 1 |
22 | Run | 35 | 0.7 |
23 | Swim | 35.9 | 0.9 |
24 | Run | 37.9 | 2 |
25 | Swim | 39.12 | 1.22 |
26 | Run | 40 | 0.88 |
Swim: 12.44 km
Run: 27.56 km
Finish Strong – Every Athlete Deserves a Medal!
At our events, every single finisher is a champion — and we believe that effort deserves to be recognised.
That’s why every participant, in every Amphibian event, will receive a custom-designed Finishers Medal. Whether you're tackling the short course or braving the Super Long distance, you’ll cross the line and have something special to hold in your hand (and hang proudly on your wall).
These aren’t just medals — they’re a symbol of everything you’ve pushed through: the early mornings, the cold water, the tough trails, and the grit it takes to keep moving forward.
Limited-Edition Amphibian Jacket
Rugged, warm, and made for the elements — this limited-edition jacket (worth over $200) is free for all Long and Super Long participants. It’s a symbol that you took on the toughest Amphibian courses and conquered them.
🧢 Amphibian Hats for All Racers
Cross the line and receive your very own Amphibian finisher hat — a lightweight, breathable essential perfect for post-race chilling or everyday training. It’s a gift for showing up, suiting up, and pushing through.
What’s Included with Your Entry – More Than Just a Race
Every Amphibian athlete receives a full race pack loaded with value, safety, and support. We’ve thought of everything, so you can focus on racing your best and soaking up the adventure:
- Event Swim Cap – Bright, bold, and yours to keep
- Event Identification Bib – Your official race number, designed for comfort and visibility
- Live GPS Tracking Unit – For safety and real-time tracking
- Timing Chip – 1 per team or solo athlete
- Free Photos on course and at the finish line
- Free cold beverage at the finish line
- On-Course Nutrition – Fuel stations at key points to keep you going strong
- Professional Water & Land Safety Teams
Your friends and family can follow your progress online — perfect for meeting you at checkpoints and cheering you on!
Big Distance. Bigger Rewards.
We’re putting serious cash on the line for the boldest athletes in our Super Long events — the 40km Auckland Coastline Challenge and the 48km Rotorua Triple Lake Adventure.
Categories:
- Open Male Female Solo
- Open Male Solo
- Open Men's Team
- Open Women's Team
- Open Mixed Team
- Open Family Team
$5,000+ in Cash & Prizes Up for Grabs!
If you're racing the Super Long course, you’ll be eligible for Open Category prize money.
That’s over $5,000 in total cash and prizes waiting to be claimed — not to mention serious bragging rights.