Best Times & Unmatched Vibes at Division II in Dunedin
- 22 hours ago
- 2 min read
Competition Wrap - 2026 Division II Swimming Competition
More than 420 swimmers took part in an excellent three days of racing at the 2026 Division II Swimming Competition held from 20–22 March in Dunedin. The competition returned to Moana Pool for the first time since 2022, boasting a 10% increase in competitors compared to 2025.
The five sessions of racing saw plenty of best times, with times on the scoreboard lighting up green at the end of each race to celebrate swimmers going faster than their entry times.
There was a terrific atmosphere throughout the weekend, with passionate supporters cheering from poolside and the grandstand. Energy built across each session, peaking as relays got underway.
As in recent years, the competition also showcased some of the best dressed outfits, with this year’s theme “Movie Night”. Many swimmers, coaches, and managers embraced the theme with impressive costumes, ranging from Top Gun to Men in Black, and even cinema attendants complete with popcorn. Best dressed clubs won prizes courtesy of our partners at Teamline.
The battle for Top Club was tightly contested between Liz van Welie Aquatics and North Shore. Liz van Welie Aquatics (1230 points) claimed the trophy, with North Shore (1208 points) finishing second ahead of Aquabladz (1039 points). It was a fitting result, given the club is named after Elizabeth van Welie – who trained at Moana Pool and went on to win silver at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Congratulations to the many swimmers who were stoked to achieve qualifying times for the upcoming 2026 NZ Age Group Swimming Championships in Hawke's Bay. Don't forget to get your entries in before they close on Thursday 26 March.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the weekend, particularly our volunteers and technical officials, and to the clubs and swimmers who helped create such a great atmosphere. Congratulations to all swimmers who achieved their goals and personal bests.
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