Experienced triathlete Jo Lawn is going back to basics in her quest to become the most successful woman in the history of Port of Tauranga Half.

Hamish Hammond pipped veteran Stephen Sheldrake within 2m of the finish line to win the Contact Tri Series in wet and cool conditions in Whangamata today after Sheldrake crashed to the ground just short of the line, taking second.

Triathlete phenomenon Cameron Brown will chase a remarkable ninth victory in Saturday's 23rd Port of Tauranga Half Marathon at Mt Maunganui.

Kiwi triathlete Andrea Hewitt has stormed to victory in the women's race of the ITU Auckland Triathlon.

Access is now open to motorists along Tamaki Drive from the Strand, Parnell.