The organisers of Raglan’s Mid Winter Swim have a few surprises in store this year, with 7 tonnes of real snow planned to be trucked to Raglan and spread on the sand – the extra chill will be the icing on the cake for the annual event.
Held close to the winter solstice in the deep cold of winter, the swim will mark its eighth birthday this year and helps to promote and raise funds for the Raglan Coastguard and Surf Life Saving Club.
Usually organised by Dave Hanna of Ray White Raglan, this year the event will be run in conjunction with the Raglan Community House as the two major sponsors of the event. With Tony Agar from the Community House organising the snow to set the winter scene Waikato District Council, Raglan Lions and the Raglan Community Board are also backing the event.
“Last year we had snow in Raglan and some people were saying it had been the first time they’d seen snow here,” said Tony, “we thought it would be great, especially for the children who may not have seen snow before.”
Dress up is encouraged if not mandatory, and an assortment of characters have been seen at past events including butlers, businessmen and pirates.
There will be heaps of spot prizes up for grabs with top spots going out to ‘Best Dressed’ and ‘Best School’. Dave Hanna also revealed a “secret celebrity judge” will be on site to pick the winners before the big swim which he says “is usually quite quick.”
With music, hot food, drinks, treasure hunts and activities planned for the children, everybody is encouraged to come down for a dip.
If you’re interested in volunteering to help with the snow on the day or are a musician/artist interested in being part of the event contact Tony on 825 8142.
Snow On The Beach, 12 noon, Saturday 23rd June @ Kopua Domain (beach).
