The National FreeBeaches Polar Plunge, 2011

And on the same day here in Auckland, nine of us, including two kids, made our way over the very muddy track through Long Bay Reserve to Pohutukawa Bay to brave the waters of the Hauraki Gulf. According to the weather reports the sea was 16 degrees C, but it felt a little cooler than that to me, although certainly not un-bare-able! We managed to stay in for a reasonable swim – more than just a plunge and out again.

“And what a special experience it was! The forecast of cold blustery squalls were with us through the morning, and even as the hardy group gathered in the Long Bay car park. But as 2.45p.m. arrived and it was time to set out across the hill, the sun came out, the wind dropped, and we moved off in an almost balmy warmth. Well, almost!

Blessings continued as we negotiated slippery mud, gorse and electric fences without casualty, finally arriving at Pohutukawa Bay, warm from our exertions and ready for our swim. Opinions were mixed as to whether the water was initially a little cold, but we all stayed in for far longer than "a quick dip and out", and memorable pictorial evidence was recorded. More good photo opportunities as we slipped and slithered back along the track - and even more as we stooped to wash our muddy feet in the river back at Long Bay. The weather held while we needed it, but icy blasts and even a little hail resumed as we left.”