Equipment

1.1 GENERAL
1.1.1 All athletes need to bring all their equipment from start to finish, including any rubbish generated from food or equipment.
1.1.2 Random mandatory equipment checks will be conducted before the race, possibly during registration. Athletes without required equipment will not be allowed to start.

1.2 MANDATORY EQUIPMENT PER TEAM
1.2.1 One waterproof-packed first aid pressure bandage
1.2.2 Two wetsuits (one per team member), covering legs and torso, suitable for current water temperature. Optional if water temperature exceeds 19°C.
1.2.3 Two specific water whistles (one per team member), easily accessible during swims.
1.2.4 Two foldable cups/soft flasks or similar (or use swim cap) for hydration at energy stations.

1.3 MANDATORY EQUIPMENT FOR SOLO COMPETITORS
1.3.1 One waterproof-packed first aid pressure bandage
1.3.2 One wetsuit, covering legs and torso, suitable for current water temperature. Optional if water temperature exceeds 19°C.
1.3.3 One whistle, easily accessible during swims.
1.3.4 One foldable cup/soft flask or similar (or use swim cap) for hydration at energy stations.
1.3.5 - all solo swimmers must use the swim tow float in every swim and carry this with you during the race.

1.4 ORGANIZSATION-SUPPLIED MANDATORY EQUIPMENT
1.4.1 Race bib, visible throughout the entire race.
1.4.2 Timing chip (replacement fee for lost or non-returned chip: NZD 100).
1.4.3 Swim cap, to be worn during all swim segments.
1.4.4 GPS tracker for select races/categories (Solo: one per athlete, Team: one per team) (replacement fee for lost or non-returned tracker: NZD 100).

1.5 EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS
1.5.1 Maximum total size for pull buoys is 32cm x 30cm x 15cm.
1.5.2 Modification of wetsuits or pull buoys with paint or non-waterproof color is strictly prohibited and results in immediate disqualification.
1.5.3 Swim fins exceeding 15cm from toe to fin-end are prohibited.
1.5.4 Any size hand paddles are allowed.

1. Penalties

2.1 GENERAL
2.1.1 Non-compliance with competition rules may result in penalties, including time penalties, disqualification, suspension, or lifetime expulsion.
2.1.2 Penalties depend on the severity of the violation.
2.1.3 Serious violations result in suspension or expulsion, determined by the Race Jury.
2.1.4 Common violations and penalties are detailed in Appendix A.

2.2 RACE JURY
2.2.1 Consists of the Race Director and two race organization members.
2.2.2 Responsibilities:

• Enforcing rules
• Resolving protests
• Determining penalties
• Approving course and rule changes
  2.2.3 Decisions require at least two jury members.
  2.2.4 Jury may use discretion for situations not explicitly covered in rules.
  2.2.5 Jury decisions are final.
  2.2.6 Warnings before penalties are not required.

2.3 PROTESTS
2.3.1 Protests must be submitted in writing to race organizers within one hour after race completion.
2.3.2 Protests must include:

• Time and location
• Protester's bib number and signature
• Bib number of protested athlete(s)
• Reason for protest
• Witness details (if available)
  2.3.3 Incomplete protests will not be considered.
  2.3.4 Race jury decisions will be communicated promptly.

1. Race Organization Conduct

3.1 GENERAL
3.1.1 Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and implement appropriate safety measures for athletes and staff.
3.1.2 Ensure adequate safety personnel and craft for all swimming segments based on risk assessment.
3.1.3 May disqualify athletes deemed physically incapable or at excessive risk from continuing the event.

3.2 FORCE MAJEURE
3.2.1 Neither participants nor organizers shall be liable for events beyond reasonable control (natural disasters, extreme weather, government actions, etc.).
3.2.2 Organizers are not liable for participant claims arising from force majeure disruptions.

3.3 RACE CANCELLATION
3.3.1 If the race is cancelled prior to race day, no refunds for travel or third-party expenses will be given.
3.3.2 In case of event cancellation, no refunds will be given but entries may be transferable depending on feasibility.

3.4 TEMPERATURE
3.4.1 Organizers will assess water and air temperatures. If combined air and water temperatures are below 17°C, race organizers may modify or cancel swim sections, add run sections, shorten the course, or cancel the event for athlete safety.