Taking a winter plunge for good cause

The sixth annual Swim to Win on Orewa Beach attracted its biggest field ever with around 60 locals prepared to jump into the surf in mid-winter to support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

The event challenges locals to take a mid-winter dip in order to raise funds for charity, and go in the draw for a pool of prizes which this year included a trip for two to the Queenstown Winter Festival and a kayak from Johnson’s Outdoors.

While some donned wetsuits or fancy dress as insulation, the majority wore only their togs and a smile as they plunged into the surf. Few lingered to swim for more than a few minutes, although many reported it was not as cold as expected.

The Westpac helicopter landed in the carpark alongside the Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club, and soon attracted a crowd keen to take a close look and learn more about its operations from the crew.

Image: The Leisure Centre swim team were enthusiastic participants in the Swim to Win.