In 2017, as an extension to the Community Swim programme, a pilot programme was introduced to fast moving water which replicates cold water immersion in a safe environment.
This year we have offered to 2,250 Year 6 students from low decile schools, the opportunity to undertake the course held at the Vector Wero Whitewater Park in Manukau. This session is made possible by the support of Second Nature Charitable Trust, Auckland Maritime Foundation, Trillian Trust and North & South Trust.
The rafting course is suitable for years 5 – 7 approx. 11+ years. The activity will include a moving water safety briefing, terminologies and safety guidelines. There will also be a question and answer time to build confidence
and understanding of the activity.
All the students will be given safety gear, including life jackets, helmets and/or wetsuits, and will be taught how to fit it correctly. They will also perform safety checks with their buddies. The children will then proceed to the water with their rafting instructors and learn to safely cross the moving water. The whole activity is supervised by qualified outdoor educationalists and instructors. The ratio of adult supervision is 1:7.