We are excited to provide an opportunity for Bay of Plenty based Tamariki and Rangatahi with intellectual or physical disabilities represent their school by particpating in a multisport event!
Rotorua Adaptive tri
This was a pilot event in 2025, and we are debriefing with those who took part and our stakeholders before a decision is made about the future.
Our first Rotorua Adaptive Tri
This inclusive and inspiring multisport event is designed especially for Bay of Plenty tamariki and rangatahi with physical or intellectual disabilities. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and fun environment where every participant feels they belong in the sport of triathlon, is celebrated for their efforts, and can take on challenges in their own way.
Open to anyone aged 5 and up who is looking for a challenge, a fun event, and a sense of achievement through triathlon—and who wants to celebrate their school spirit!
The event features all three traditional triathlon disciplines, with accommodations to maximise participation. These include varied distances depending on the challenge selected, equipment support, and plenty of encouragement.
Every participant will cross the finish line to a medal and a well‑deserved celebration.
Entry is just $5 per person. We promise an unforgettable day of fun, achievement, and community spirit.
We will collaborate with all individuals, families or kura to adapt and accommodate each tamariki and rangatahi to reach their personal goals.
Date: TBC 2026
Our why:
To reduce or remove barriers preventing tamariki or rangatahi with disabilities or access needs from participating in a triathlon.
To provide an opportunity for participants to set and achieve personal milestones.
To offer a chance for tamariki and rangatahi to have fun taking part in a triathlon.
To ensure all tamariki and rangatahi are both supported and challenged throughout the day.
The Rotorua Adaptive Tri aims to remove barriers so that everyone can participate.
Location
Rotorua Aquatic Centre
The event will be based at the Rotorua Aquatic Centre. Located at Kuirau Park, 18 Tarewa Rd, Rotorua 3010
Accessibility supports such as mobility devices and service animals are welcome
On-site Cafē
Modernized indoor changing rooms, reception, and showers with enhanced accessibility features intended to support better access for all visitors
Sealed parking
FAQ's
Can I participate if I am in a wheelchair?
Yes you sure can. The Rotorua Aquatic Centre is wheelchair accessible. We also can provide an aqua wheel chair to use down the ramp into the pool. Your wheelchair can also be used for the wheel and run leg. Handcycles are also permitted.
Can my parent/carer/teacher help me?
If you need any help during the event, we encourage those around you to provide this. This event is about achieving your goals and participation. If you need us to help find someone to support you then let us know.
What if I can’t swim?
You can have a support person in the water with you supporting you the whole way. We also have loads of options for you including floatation belts, life jackets and even giant floatation mats you can lie on while your support person helps you move across the pool.
Where do the Wheels and Run/Push leg take place?
The wheels and run/push leg will be on the flat asphalt surface around the carpark next to the pools. You will be doing laps of the carpark. Note this will be closed off to traffic/parking on the day.
What order do I do the events?
All events will start with the wheels, followed by the run/push and then finish with the swim. This allow you to get warm quickly following the swim.
What does ‘Wheels” section mean?
In a triathlon, it is called a bike section, but we encourage you to participate with any equipment that has wheels! This could be your wheelchair, a scooter or an adaptive bike. If you need assistance to borrow some wheels then let us know on your entry form and we will do our very best to find one for you.
I am unable to run, can I still take part?
We are more than happy to adapt the leg to suit your requirements. You can walk, run or push. If you need assistance to borrow some equipment to help you on this leg, then let us know on your entry form and we will do our very best to find one for you.
I am neuro-diverse. Can I enter?
This event is open to anyone aged between 5-21 who is engaged in the school system who may find the traditional triathlon difficult. If we can help by providing an environment that makes life comfortable for you, just let us know when you register.
My child attends a mainstream school, can they enter?
This event is open to anyone aged between 5-21 who is engaged in the school system who may find the traditional triathlon difficult.
How do I enter?
We would prefer if the entries are completed by your school so they are aware of your participation and can offer any support. If your school is unable to do this then entries direct from families are accepted. Email rotoruaadaptivetri@gmail.com to get an entry form.
How much does it cost to enter?
The cost to enter is $5 per participant.
Do I have to do a certain distance?
We have three events to choose from. The decision is up to you. We encourage you to select a distance that will challenge you!
What if my child gets overwhelmed at the event?
Our aim is to make this a positive atmosphere for all. We have large grounds and plenty of spaces for people to take some quiet time.
Do we have to stay the entire day?
No you don't. If you would rather arrive and leave just for your child's event, that is perfectly fine. We will be having a BBQ and a small prize giving at the end but these are not compulsory to attend.
Each participant must be actively supervised throughout the day by a caregiver.
Can we use the pools after our event?
Yes you can with the appropriate supervision. There is no extra cost for this.
Can I invite friends and family to watch?
We would love that! There is no cost for spectators to enter.
Will the general public be sharing the pools?
The Learners Pool have been reserved for this event. The general public will still be in the other pools.
What do I wear?
Wear what is comfortable for you to be active in. We will have a transition area so you can change clothes between each leg.
Closed toed shoes are compulsory for the wheels and run sections.
A helmet is compulsory for the wheels section.
Where can I get changed?
We do have two large changing areas (male and female), as well as two family/disabled changing rooms. It may be easier for some to arrive and leave in their togs.
I’m unsure if my child can do this, will you be running it again?
This is a pilot event, and we will be spending some time post this event debriefing with those who took part and our stakeholders before a decision is made about the future. We welcome spectators to come and view the event
Rotorua Association of Triathlon and Multisport Inc.
(Also known as "RATS")
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