Gumboots to Goggles
From gumboots to goggles, paddles to popcorn the Makino Aquatic Centre (MAC) turned up the heat these September school holidays, bringing together the best of country and community together. What unfolded was a fortnight packed with splashes, learning, creativity, and local pride.
The holidays began with MAC’s (winning) Rural Day display and Rural Disco which celebrated the district’s farming roots in true community style. MAC staff stepped outside the pool to join the local Rural Day Relay competition, trading swim caps for gumboots. The team showed off the same teamwork and enthusiasm that fills the MAC every day.
At the pool, the fun continued with a full schedule of school holiday activities. Snorkelling, canoe paddling, and canoe polo were all fully booked, with tamariki eager to learn new skills and build confidence in the water. Inflatable sessions filled the afternoons with splashes and smiles, while private swim lessons ran Monday to Friday each week, helping swimmers to grow their skills.
To close out the holidays, families attended the MAC’s Float-In Movie Night. The Play Pool had Mufasa: The Lion King playing while Lilo & Stitch brought a twist to the 25m Pool with the magic of the big screen together.
Aquatic Programmes Leader Renee Dunbar says the team loved seeing so many people enjoying what the MAC has to offer. “It’s always special when we see our community come together like this,” she says. “From the Rural Day fun to the Float-In Movie Night, it’s all about creating moments that bring people joy both in and out of the pool.”
The MAC team have fun upcoming activities, including a spooktacular Halloween week and Ladies Night float-in movie.
To find out more: What's On | Makino Aquatic Centre
Gumboots to goggles were at the Makino Aquatic Centre these September School Holidays.