New Zealand's best swimmer this century has called it quits.

Lauren Boyle has announced her retirement at the age of 29, after a career that saw her win five world championship medals, four Commonwealth Games medals and set a short-course 1500 metres world record.

But she said the injury that kept her out of the just-completed world champs has forced her into retirement.

She said to achieve those heights retires top form and she's been battling with a hip injury for some time.

National swimming coach Jerry Olszewski is praising Boyle's contribution to the sport.

He said to be the pinnacle athlete for that period of time is remarkable and will go down as one of the best swimmers in history.