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Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps, the Garth Barfoot Challenge Wānaka Aquabike is set in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions.
This race is held as part of the Gallagher Insurance Festival of Triathlon, takes athletes on a spectacular journey through pristine landscapes, featuring a 2km swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka, a 80km bike ride through the undulating countryside.
Renowned for its friendly community atmosphere and world-class course, Challenge Wānaka offers a true test of endurance in an unparalleled natural setting. Whether you’re an elite competitor, an age-group athlete, or taking on your first race, this event delivers an unforgettable experience.
Join us for a race like no other—where adventure meets endurance in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region.
THE COURSE
Swim Course 2km (1 lap)
Challenge Wānaka offers one of the most stunning swim courses in the world, set in the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps in Roys Bay on the lakefront of Wānaka. The swim follows an out and back rectangle (clockwise) route, marked by buoys, offering a scenic yet challenging start to your race day!
Lake Wānaka, New Zealand’s fourth-largest lake, spans an incredible 180 km², with a length of 45.5 km and depths of up to 300 meters. In February, the water temperature in Roys Bay should settle around 15°C, making wetsuits the smart choice and compulsory along with caps (which will be provided). While the lake can range from 10-11°C in winter to 20°C in summer, 15-17°C is typical for race day.
Lake swimming differs from the sea—so you’ll notice less buoyancy. While Roys Bay can be completely calm, don’t get too comfortable! Conditions can quickly change on the lake depending on wind speed, and significant chop could add an extra layer of difficulty to your swim.
Whether it’s calm waters or a choppy challenge, this swim course will test your limits and treat you to unmatched views.
Bike Course 80km
The bike course takes riders on a spectacular journey through some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes. More details to come soon!
COURSE MAPS – Coming soon …
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
A final decision on the course will take place by 6.00am with an announcement made over the PA system in the Event Hub area.
The contingency plan is as follows: If the weather and course conditions mean that the swim is unable to take place at all, the event will revert to a duathlon as a last resort. In the case of a duathlon, the initial run is 3km which will start by the Swim Exit and run up 1.5km and back along the run course. The start will be in waves, as per the intended swim waves.
You will have to remove your shoes from transition and replace them after the initial run.
If the weather prevents both the swim and the bike legs taking place, a half marathon will be considered.
Any changes to the course are at the full discretion of the Race Director and will be made with athlete safety as the utmost importance.
There is no postponement date/day and no refunds will be given.
To help prevent the spread of freshwater pests we encourage you if you’re out on or in the water swimming take a moment to:
your wetsuit for stowaway pests and remove these either or by putting them in the rubbish bin,
your gear thoroughly, and
it for 48 hours before relocating to another waterway!
Check, Clean, Dry, vastly reduces the risk of aquatic pests hitchhiking from one waterway to another aboard our vessels and gear.
For more information see following handouts or visit Otago Regional Council Guidelines
View Race Rules
View Terms and Conditions
