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Image source: www.nzpost.co.nz
It may be the middle of winter, but hundreds of children in Hicks Bay are starting swimming lessons this week.
A portable pool supplied by New Zealand Post’s Active Post initiative was assembled over the holiday at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori ō Kawakawa Mai Tawhiti.
Children from four East Coast schools will use it as part of the Kia Maanu, Kia Ora (Stay Afloat, Stay Alive) campaign to reduce the high number of Māori drownings by teaching young rural-based Maori water survival skills.
The children will also train to become local lifeguards and participate in waka ama.
The 10×5 metres pool can be heated to 28 degrees, and comes with a detachable marquee so it can be used rain or shine.
Copyright © 2013, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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