5 November 2025
What began as a health initiative has quickly blossomed into a whānau at Kiwa Pools, where a dedicated group of kaumātua have been walking the width of the learn-to-swim pool every morning as part of the annual Swim the Distance challenge, often arriving before the facility opens.
The annual Swim the Distance campaign, a partnership between Kiwa Pools and Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti, challenges participants to swim 45.5 kilometres over a 2-month period – the distance from Gisborne to Mahia. Inspired by last year's challenge, a group of kaumātua aged between 49 and 85 created their own more attainable version, choosing to “Walk the 35” instead of swimming laps.
The name pays homage to State Highway 35, the iconic coastal route that serves as a vital arterial link for East Coast communities and has become a symbol of regional pride and identity.
From 6am to 8am each day, and often longer, approximately 24 people gather to walk the width of the learn-to-swim pool. What started as a simple health initiative has quickly evolved into something far more meaningful.
The group have affectionately dubbed themselves the 'Still Kicking It' crew, a name that perfectly captures their spirit and determination.
Many of the participants started for the physical benefits, with some building so much strength that even their physios have noticed the difference and asked for their secret. One participant had experienced extreme difficulty walking, needing to enter the pool via the ramp, and now can climb down the ladder into the pool. The group have formed a close bond with each other.
"We're whānau now," explains Jessie Richardson, a participant. "It goes beyond the pool."
The group first came together during last year's Swim the Distance challenge and has continued meeting ever since. "When we started this over a year ago, we were strangers, but on the same kaupapa," Richardson says. "Now, we're there for each other, helping with trips to the doctors, keeping in touch, and reaching out when someone doesn't show up."
The tight-knit group has extended their connection beyond their morning walks, gathering for lunch together on Fridays at the Gisborne RSA.
They've also "adopted" lifeguard Ngahuia Riddell as their honorary "moko" (mokopuna, meaning grandchild), embracing her as part of their extended family.
Ngahuia's dedication to the group exemplifies the spirit of manaakitanga that has developed. During a recent session, she was in the pool with the kaumātua in a personal capacity, not during her paid shift. Along with measuring and keeping a log book for the group, she has also created a makeshift sign from a wet floor sign and prepared certificates and prizes, which were donated by various parties, at a prizegiving ceremony at the Morere Pools.
The Swim the Distance challenge has been running since 2013, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to participate in aquatic activity. The Walk the 35 initiative demonstrates the inclusive nature of the programme and its ability to bring people together.
The Walk the 35 group's story is a testament to the power of community spaces to foster connection, support wellbeing and create lasting bonds that extend far beyond their original purpose.
The 'Still Kicking It' group of kaumātua who “Walk the 35” (left to right): Joe Montgomery, Uncle Blackie, Amy O'Connell, Deborah Cottersmith, Paul Dewes, Jessie Richardson (centre), Kass Rosewarne, Basil Morgan, and lifeguard Ngahuia Riddell during a recent morning session.
Participants enjoying a soak at Morere Pools as part of their prizegiving. Photo: Jessie Richardson