Running
Swim 7.1km
7.1 km
Start: 09:00 AM
40.00 EUR
5 Bridges River Swim
Loading map…
Road runs in New Zealand, Hamilton
Distances
About
A picturesque 7.1km swim along the Waikato River starting at Hamilton Gardens, passing under five iconic bridges and finishing at Ann Street Park. With the river’s current the distance is equivalent to a 3km swim—achievable for most swimming abilities.
Catering & aid stations
On-course food and drink available at aid stations during the race.
Pacers
Pacer groups will set target times per Startwave on race day (see Renntag schedule). Pacer flags will be displayed at the start corrals; pacers pace for the listed times per distance group.
Results
View official resultsSurface mix
- 100% asphalt
Typical weather in Hamilton
Monthly averages based on historical data (2000–present).
Jan23°14°
↑ 06:13
↓ 20:44
Feb24°15°
↑ 06:48
↓ 20:20
Mar22°13°
↑ 07:18
↓ 19:40
Apr19°11°
↑ 06:46
↓ 17:53
May16°8°
↑ 07:13
↓ 17:19
Jun14°7°
↑ 07:33
↓ 17:07
Jul13°5°
↑ 07:32
↓ 17:19
Aug14°6°
↑ 07:05
↓ 17:44
Sep15°7°
↑ 06:20
↓ 18:10
Oct17°9°
↑ 06:35
↓ 19:36
Nov19°11°
↑ 06:00
↓ 20:09
Dec21°13°
↑ 05:52
↓ 20:38
Route maps
What's included in entry
- Bright swimming cap (required; caps will not be provided)
- Optional bus transport from finish at Ann Street to start at Hamilton Gardens (+$5); must be selected at registration
- Optional bag transport from start to finish provided by organizers
- Spot prizes from sponsors drawn randomly during prizegiving
Prices & signup
- Swim 7.1km40.00 EUR
FAQ
What is the registration fee and late fee?
Early registration is $40 until Wednesday 4 March 2026. Late registration on event day costs $50 (cash on day, includes a $10 late fee).
Is a wetsuit required?
Wetsuits are not compulsory but are recommended.
Do I need to bring a swimming cap?
Yes; all participants must bring and wear their own bright swimming cap. Caps will not be provided.
What about bus transportation?
Bus transport from the finish area at Ann Street to the start at Hamilton Gardens departs at 8:30am sharp. Cost is $5; select the bus option when registering. Only 68 seats are available and tickets are online-only.
What are the age and safety rules?
All participants must be 15 years or older on event day (8 March 2026). For safety, swimmers not finishing within 90 minutes will be assisted out by safety boats. Minimum participation age is 15; exceptions are considered case-by-case.
What support is provided on course?
Two motor boats, kayaks, and canoes accompany swimmers for safety. Medical personnel including St John’s Ambulance will be on site. All marshals and water-safety personnel instructions must be followed.
Last updated: Jun 5, 2026, 11:36:53 PM
Get RaceAlerts
We'll email you when races match your filters. No spam — only what fits your goals.
Related runs
On your marks
Loading race details…