Ice, Ice Baby: Polar Plunge
Makino Aquatic Centre is opening its outdoor pool for a mid-winter Polar Plunge as part of this year’s Matariki celebrations.
Entry is $8 per participant (16+), and complimentary hot soup will be available afterwards to help warm you up. No registration is required, simply turn up on the day and take the plunge. Sessions will be held on Monday 22 June from 4.30pm to 6.00pm, Thursday 25 June from 6.30am to 8.00am, and Saturday 27 June from 10.00am to 12.00pm.
The Tupuārangi Week theme invites the community to embrace the outdoors, challenge themselves, and discover the invigorating benefits of cold-water immersion — Ice, Ice Baby style.
The outdoor pool, usually closed during winter, will come to life with splashes, laughter, and plenty of courage as participants brave water temperatures of between 12°C and 14°C, depending on the time of day.
Whether you join us at sunrise, sunset, or during the warmer morning session, it’s an opportunity to try something different and create a memorable Matariki experience.
Aquatic Programmes Leader Renee Dunbar will be leading by example and taking the plunge herself.
“This is the first time we have held a Polar Plunge, and we are excited to give people the opportunity to experience our outdoor pool in a completely different way,” she said. “We will have hot soup and plenty of encouragement waiting for everyone who takes part.”
The water might be chilly, but the experience is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted. So, grab your towel, gather your courage, and join us for a Matariki celebration that’s cool in every sense of the word.
Purchase your tickets online here: Ticketing | Manawatu
A sunny view of the outdoor pool at the Makino Aquatic Centre, showing the 50-metre pool.