Sign up for the Big Swim for free pool entry

They're swimming for their lives – and yours.

Taupō’s AC Baths and Tūrangi’s Turtle Pools are offering free entry throughout June for anyone who signs up to the Coastguard Big Swim. Funds raised go to supporting more than 2000 volunteers with vital equipment and training they need to save lives year-round.

“I am passionate about water safety” says Madelein. “I have dedicated my professional career to keep children safe – this is a great opportunity to get behind a great cause.” Anyone can get involved and all you need to do is go for a swim at your local pool. Simply nominate a distance to swim in the month of June and ask whānau, friends and colleagues to sponsor you.

Hillary says she signed up to promote water safety. “And I love supporting amazing people who have a heart of gold.” The Coastguard Unit was formed in 1898 and funding is vital to keeping the volunteers equipped, trained and ready to save lives on the water.

Madelein recognises the work the Coastguard do, often in unsafe conditions. “I have first-hand experience that water can be dangerous and we do need to respect it.” Supporting this cause is dear to her heart and she is grateful for the opportunity to get involved at her local pool. “A swimming pool can bring communities together and we are blessed to have wonderful pools with a wide range of different aquatic activities.”

Monique is doing her bit to raise awareness of the amazing work Coastguard does and hopefully inspire others to join in. “You don’t have to be an elite swimmer — just willing to give it a go. You can swim at your own pace, do it solo or as a team, and know that every metre counts toward keeping people safe on the water.”

If you’re eager to do some lengths for free this June and raise money for Coastguard volunteers, you can find out more here.