Hawke’s Bay leads the way for Aquatics innovation

The Aquatic Innovation – Programmes Award recognises the success of initiatives that demonstrates innovation, community engagement, industry leadership and sustainability. Six finalists were named in this category. The Swim-4-Lives programme received a Merit Award, while the No Limits ParaTry-Athlon took home the top prize.

The Central Hawke’s Bay Swim-4-Lives programme was founded in 2016 by Wayne Forest. Swim-4-Lives provides a comprehensive aquatic education programme for children aged 5 – 13-year-olds, is funded by the community, and is supported by volunteers. Delivered to 16 Central Hawke’s Bay schools on a two-year rotation, the programme equips young people with essential water safety skills.

Launched in 2024, the No Limits ParaTry-Athlon is an inclusive multi-sport event for primary and intermediate-aged tamariki who require specific accommodations to participate. The programme aims to break down barriers to participation and plans to expand across other aquatic facilities.

Rhiann Collins, Aquatics Programme Manager for Recreation Aotearoa said: “Pools and aquatic facilities play a crucial role in a community’s social, economic, and physical wellbeing. These awards recognise those places, programmes and people that help all New Zealanders live an active, healthier, more-connected life. It’s wonderful to see accessibility and inclusion prioritised in modern aquatics programmes like the ParaTry-Athlon.”

“Our drowning statistics in New Zealand are heading in the wrong direction. Programmes like Swim-4-Lives are equipping our children with vital water safety skills, which will help reverse this trend.”