Whangarei Boaties get wet to help Kiwi Kids

“They might not get wet” says Whangarei Splash organiser Andrew Sworn, “But they will have a lot of fun on and off the water next weekend with a kids fishing contest, a waterborne scavenger hunt and cast-fishing for targets among the planned activities, as well as plenty of good food, and the chance to see parts of the harbour few folk get to navigate.”

Andrew Sworn, Marc Sands and their friends are involved in the annual Variety Trillian Bash – Andrew aboard the Tutukaka Freight pink fire engine, dubbed Pink Truck’n, and Marc on the black Resene fire tender, and four years ago they got the idea of involving boaties in raising funds to help Kiwi kids through Variety – The Childrens Charity.

The pair like the charity’s philosophy of helping Kiwis, and of plugging the gaps – assisting with that piece of health or computer equipment, that school uniform or team kit that the typical New Zealand parent may not have the funds to manage.

They’ve got some local businesses involved too, with Hotprintz printing banners and flags, Warren Hay Marine and Marsden Cove Fishing Club involved in the children’s fishing contest, and Adams Timmer Insurance covering the event.

“Those taking part will spend a fair bit of time on the water,” Andrew says, “But anyone can come along to watch as we’ll be in the town basin around 10-11am on Saturday and in the harbour during the day, or they can take their kids to the fishing contest on Sunday, or to Tutukaka Store at Saturday lunch time to see some of the fun – and perhaps donate some small change! And of course anyone can join us for dinner on Saturday night, as long as they’ve booked – we don’t want to run out of food!”

Marsden Cove Marina has provided free berthage for participants and its clubrooms will be a base for The Splash.

“The best bit is anyone who has a boat can enter, and the entry fee’s pinned to $250 per boat, plus a per-head cost for the six meals we’ll cover, to ensure a weekend of aquatic fun with a per–person cost that won’t break the bank, and will go a long way to help Kiwi kids who need a hand-up.”

The Whangarei Splash will take place on Friday May 2, pm, to Sunday May 4.

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