About us

In early 2023, seven brave women stood at the edge of something new. They were about to take part in the Generation Homes Women’s Triathlon in Mount Maunganui, many of them complete novices to the world of multisport. What brought them together was not just a race, but a promise — to support one another, face their fears head-on, and do something that felt just a little bit mad. That mad decision sparked a movement. They called themselves “The Twisted Sisters,” a name that perfectly captured the joyful chaos and deep camaraderie of their shared journey.

Fast forward 18 months, and The Twisted Sisters community has blossomed far beyond that initial group. With more than 100 members and counting, the group spans across New Zealand and even reaches Australia, the UK, and Tonga. The bonds that were once forged through nervous pre-race chats and celebratory post-race hugs have grown into a global sisterhood of women who cheer each other on through every challenge — athletic or otherwise.

Last summer, the group launched its first ever open water swim initiative: the Twisted Sisters Summer Swim Sessions. These meet-ups gave women the opportunity to build confidence in the ocean, learn skills, and — most importantly — find joy in doing something together. Whether someone had grown up swimming or was stepping into the waves for the first time, the sessions were designed to be inclusive, empowering, and pressure-free.

At the heart of the summer was the Girl Buoy Swim Challenge — a playful name for a deeply personal milestone. Swimmers set their sights on reaching a local swim buoy, and yes, there was even a medal at the finish. But it was never really about the medal. For many, the real reward was the courage it took to show up, step into the unknown, and push beyond their own limits. Whether it was their first time in open water or their fiftieth, every swimmer walked away with a renewed sense of confidence, accomplishment, and community.

For members of The Twisted Sisters, this kind of challenge is transformative. It’s not just about sport. It’s about rewriting the stories we tell ourselves about what we can and can’t do. It’s about showing up for yourself — and being surrounded by women who show up for you, too. Through training sessions, swims, races, and even just encouraging comments on the group page, the Twisted Sisters have created something rare: a space where women can grow stronger, together.

What began as a one-off triathlon has evolved into a powerful movement. With the creation of the Twisted Sisters Club in August 2024, the group continues to expand its impact, making sport more accessible, joyful, and supportive for women of all backgrounds. And if the past 18 months are anything to go by, the best is yet to come.