WATER SAFETY TRAINING
New kayaks help children’s water safety
NZCT has given Pupuke Schools Waterwise Inc. a $2,700 grant to upgrade and increase its kayak fleet in order to maximise local children’s water confidence.
Waterwise is a voluntary organisation which strives to provide the best possible water education for young children. Bruce Reid, Chairman of Pupuke Schools Waterwise, says the new kayaks will enable Waterwise to provide safe, reliable gear for children participating in its water safety programme.
“This is very important and we are grateful NZCT has been able to help us,” says Mr Reid. “To have a fleet of 20 kayaks is a fabulous asset to us.”
Waterwise caters for 10-14 year olds who want to develop self-confidence, increase their water safety knowledge, swimming and fitness, and canoeing and yachting skills. Waterwise works with students from six local schools: Takapuna Primary School, Takapuna Normal Intermediate School, Milford Primary School, Carmel College, Forrest Hill Primary and Campbells Bay School.
The organisation tries to keep membership costs as low as possible to ensure children are not excluded and participation is maximised. The money Waterwise receives from fees is used to pay for facilities and regular on-going running costs such as petrol, rescue boat maintenance and lifejacket replacements.
The additional funding received from NZCT will enable Waterwise to provide better equipment so its students feel safe and confident in the water.
Colin Dale, chair of the NZCT Northern Regional Advisory Committee, says NZCT is proud to help Waterwise reach its goals.
“NZCT is particularly interested in grants which offer long term, sustainable benefits to sporting groups and local communities,” says Mr Dale. ““The trust is pleased to help, and is always mindful of putting money raised in its gaming rooms back into the local community.”
