On Sunday, Hasley Toheriri and fellow swimmers took to the water for the Coastguard Big Swim, swimming from the Whakatāne Bridge to the Coastguard boat shed in support of Coastguard and its work in the community.

Toheriri was one of five swimmers to complete the full 4-kilometre course, with another swimmer joining them downstream at the yacht club for the final stretch.

The fundraising event drew strong support from the community, with spectators gathering at the bridge before the swim and following the participants along the riverbank.

Volunteers were also on hand collecting donations from members of the public.

For Toheriri, the support from spectators was one of the highlights of the day.

“It was good to have that support. Seeing heaps and heaps of people walking along, cheering you on.”

Conditions were cool but Toheriri said the swim was enjoyable.

“Jumping in the water was a bit cold at the start, but it wasn’t actually too bad all the way down.”

The swimmers also benefitted from favourable tidal conditions.

Toheriri said the current helped move them down the river, making for a faster swim than last year.

The event was supported on the water by Coastguard volunteers, with three Coastguard vessels following the swimmers. Kayakers also joined the event, helping provide support and encouragement throughout the swim.

Toheriri raised $925, adding to the $800 raised by the rest of his Whakatāne Coastguard team.

Anahera Hakiaha, who was participating in her second Coastguard Big Swim, raised $830 with her team Ursula and the Mermaids.

Toheriri hopes the event will continue to grow, with more swimmers and more community support helping to raise awareness of Coastguard and the important role it plays.

“We’re just trying to create awareness and this is a great way to do it.”