New research reveals over half Kiwi kids aren't learning to swim because lessons are unaffordable.
The majority of Kiwis live within 5 kilometres of the sea Last year ninety New Zealanders drowned, the most since 2011. Eight of them were under fourteen.
Now there's a push to make swimming lessons more affordable, in the wake of a Swimsafer Report by Swim Coaches and Teachers New Zealand.
The survey shows 31% of parents believe their child's swimming skills and confidence in the water are low.
More than a third say they, or a family member, have had a bad experience in water. Fifty-two percent of parents surveyed said swimming lessons cost too much.
In response to this, 'Swim It Forward' is launching this week - New Zealand's first SWIMSAFER Week - where more fortunate families are being asked to donate money towards swiming lessons for those less so.
Kathryn is joined by President of Swim Coaches and Teachers NZ, Daniel Fulton and eleven-time gold medallist, World Champion in Para swimming and SWIMSAFER Week Ambassador, Dame Sophie Pascoe.
