Make a splash for our community

Kia ora, my name is Melissa, and I run learn-to-swim lessons at Tūrangi Turtle Pools. Our tamariki live surrounded by rivers and lakes, yet many don’t have the chance to learn how to be safe and confident in the water. Swimming is not just a sport in Aotearoa – it’s a vital life skill.

Unfortunately, our community is rural/semi-rural, underfunded, and often overlooked. We don’t have access to the same resources larger towns do. Right now, I’m running lessons with the things I have – but I know our kids deserve better.

With your support, I hope to purchase high-quality learn-to-swim gear that make learning both safe and fun. Having the right equipment will make a huge difference, especially for our youngest swimmers who are just starting out. The goal is to give every child, regardless of their background, the best chance to gain water confidence and develop skills that could one day save their life.

I have personally funded some equipment so far, but I can’t continue to cover these costs alone. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly towards resources for our local kids

This kaupapa is about more than swimming – it’s about safety, confidence, and giving our tamariki opportunities they might otherwise miss. Together, we can make sure no child is left behind when it comes to water safety.

Thank you for helping us make a splash for our community!