Hi there perhaps try the short ocean swims 1st, Each swim in the masters accumulates and finishes with the Rangitoto, the Sovereign events there are 750 m swims.You can join a group that swims out of takapuna ocean swim clinic I think. I swim in a sQuad and you can swim with people your own ability. I generally swim a least 3.5 k in the pool and train also in the Manakau. Make sure you really want to keep going with the swimming before you buy a suit Also you have to try in the sea before race day as suits make you more bouyant. Im thinking about swimming in togs as I do find them to restrictive!! Happy swimming

Well don't try anything new on the day! -So you need to be sure you're OK for 2.8k in the pool, and if you are going to wear a wetsuit make sure you are comfortable swimming in one. I suggest you contact a masters swim club where you will get some coaching and advice. find a local club on www.nzmastersswimming.org.nz

Hi Frank. Thanks for the post. Sori about late reply. I'm not into fins anyway but did wonder. I also wondered about any sort of aids but realised after posting this and checking out the pics, well that's what it’s all about. As for groups, a real novice and shyish to boot, lol, so not sure yet. In terms of training, what should one be working up to in lengths for the swim? Thanks for your helpfulness.LAst question, never swum in a wet suit. In terms of hiring one and getting actual practice, is there any advice you can give?

Hi there no fins, fins are used in pools as aids, the best thing I find if you want to do ocean swimming is join a squad, at your local pool !!!