Regional title for local lifeguards

Hutt City pool lifeguards came out on top at the recent Wellington Region Lifeguard Competition held in Upper Hutt. The Hutt City team battled it out with four other teams from Wellington City Council, Porirua City Council and Upper Hutt City Council.

The Hutt City team performed consistently across six events (team quiz, 25m tow relay, 200m swim relay, 25m swim relay, rope throw, and CPR and emergency scenarios) designed to test every part of a lifeguard’s skill and fitness.

Hutt City team manager Ben Feinberg-Danieli says the win was a great result, but the most important thing was the process of preparation for the event. “By building a good training programme for our staff we ensure all our lifeguards are performing at a high standard and not just focusing on this competition. This highlights the emphasis on pool safety at Hutt City swimming pools".

Mayor David Ogden is also proud of the team’s achievements. “We are very proud to have such great lifeguards as well as experienced managers and trainers who are leaders in their industry and for our local lifeguards to excel in this type of competition, it’ll mean safer experiences for Hutt pool users.”

The event is in its fifth year and this is the second time Hutt City has won the title, the last victory was in 2007.

The winning team included: Phil Waggott (lifeguard, Stokes Valley Pool), Pip Southee (lifeguard, Huia Pool), Amy Dalziell (lifeguard, Huia Pool) and Ben Potaka (lifeguard, Huia Pool). Team managers Ben Feinberg-Danieli (manager Huia Pool) and Steve Mercer (manager Stokes Valley Pool).