48km Adventure

3 Lake Rotorua Challenge

Sunday March 8th 2026

Get ready to experience New Zealand’s ultimate SwimRun challenge — a 48km journey that connects the most iconic and awe-inspiring lakes of Rotorua:

🌊 Blue Lake (Tikitapu)

🌊 Lake Ōkāreka

🌊 Lake Tarawera

This is no ordinary race. It's a next-level adventure through the heart of the Central North Island, weaving together wild native bush, geothermal energy, and crystal-clear freshwater swims — all surrounded by Rotorua’s world-famous volcanic terrain.

Course Highlights:

  • 5 freshwater swims across 3 legendary lakes
  • Volcanic forest trails, hidden valleys, and epic views
  • Natural geothermal heat rising from the land
  • The chance to soak in active hot pools MID-race — your reward after conquering one of the toughest and most beautiful courses in Aotearoa

Why This Race is Special:

Each leg of the course reveals a different side of Rotorua — from misty lake shores to fern-lined bush tracks and steamy thermal zones. You'll feel the ancient energy of the region with every step and stroke.

Who It’s For:

For the Gritty. The Determined. The Ready.

This course isn’t just for elite athletes — it’s for anyone with a strong fitness base and a resilient mindset.

If you’ve built your engine through triathlon, trail running, SwimRun, or open water swimming, and you’re ready to step into something bigger, this 48km Rotorua course is your calling.

It’s a physical test and a mental challenge — but every step, every stroke, and every climb brings you closer to something unforgettable.

💪 You’ll need resilience.

🔥 You’ll need grit.

🧥 But when you cross that finish line, you’ll earn the exclusive Amphibian Thermal Jacket — and a memory that’ll stick with you for life.

🌿 This isn’t just an event. It’s an experience.

And if you're ready, Rotorua is waiting.

Joins us for a Epic Adventure

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Rotorua Amphibian 48km Super Long Breakdown
# Discipline KM Marker Leg Distance (km)
1 Swim 1.7 1.7
2 Run 9.7 8
3 Swim 11 1.3
4 Run 30 19
5 Swim 32 2
6 Run 38 6
7 Swim 40.6 2.6
8 Run 47 6.4
9 Swim 48 1
Total Distance: 48 km
Run: 39.4 km
Swim: 8.6 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.