Supporting swimmers of all abilities

Whether you are a fancy diver or you prefer the classic kiwi manu, jumping into water is a true kiwi summer sport. For people with disabilities the thrill of jumping in isn’t always an option but the positive effects of being in the water is a delight that can be felt at the Makino Aquatic Centre.

The Makino Aquatic Centre (MAC) is an accessible facility. The 25m pool features a ramp for easy entering and exiting of the water.  All pools have hoist access for added assistance.    The changerooms have beds that rise and lower and a hoist that transitions into the shower.  The adjustable beds are a unique feature for the MAC and help to ease the weight and strain that is often felt by caregivers.

“We have a large number of visitors to the MAC that require added assistance,” says Catherine Todd, Aquatics Activity Leader.  “It’s fantastic that we cater to swimmers of all abilities and offer free entry to caregivers.”

For swimmers who require an aquatic wheelchair, the MAC offers the loan of onsite wheelchairs.  Aquatic wheelchairs are constructed from furniture grade PVC and the chair is totally submersible, helping swimmers to enter the pool through ramp access or enjoy wet deck features.

Swimming in general is a great form of exercise as it builds muscle strength, improves heart health, and greatly improves mental health.  It’s also highly therapeutic.  These same benefits are evident in swimmers with a mobility disability.

New to the MAC’s programming are sensory sessions.  For some swimmers who are sensitive to their surroundings being in a busy pool with lots of noise and movement can be overwhelming.  Sensory sessions are offered the last Sunday of every month 4.30-5.30pm during term time.  The sessions provide exclusive access to the learn to swim pool with separate changing rooms and within this area of the centre, the music is turned off.  Caregivers also swim free during these sessions.