Lloyd Elsmore Park Pool and Leisure Centre has partnered with Coastguard Boating Education to promote safe boating practices with local schools and community groups.
As part of the partnership, a practical programme will be offered at the leisure centre to teach kids how to fit their own buoyancy aids, in-water survival techniques and how to rescue themselves and others.
Centre Manager Gary Burr says the programme will enable young Aucklanders to feel more capable and confident around boats and water.
“This programme will equip our young people with practical water safety skills and help them feel more confident in and around water. This is part of Auckland Leisure’s commitment to getting more Aucklanders active, more often,” he says.
“We’re happy to be joining forces with Coastguard Boating Education and are grateful for the financial support from the Howick Local Board, which is being put towards training our staff and the specialist equipment required to deliver the programme.”
Lisa Campkin, Coastguard Boating Education’s Project Manager, says the Safe Boating Programme teaches life skills and how to make better decisions around boats.
“Coastguard Boating Education is always looking for opportunities to collaborate with the local community to help spread safe water and boating messages. We’re working to get every 8-12 year olds in New Zealand through this programme. Lloyd Elsmore is a key area for us, as it is part of a large sailing community and there are a number of beaches in the area.”
The programme launched on 10 August 2017 and aims to educate a minimum of 250 children within the next 12 months.
Keen to get your school involved? Contact the team at Lloyd Elsmore Pool and Leisure Centre on 09 535 5502.
