Our HAVE-A-GO program is all about providing an opportunity for tamariki to connect with their local swimming club and to help kick start a life-long love of swimming

Our Have-A-Go Swimming days are designed to cater for all levels of swimming ability and to ensure all participants have a fun swimming experience.

It is free for everyone
All participants receive a ‘Have-A-Go’ Starter Pack! – subject to funding
See our upcoming Have-a-Go events below
Please feel free to get in touch with any queries!

Upcoming Have-A-Go Events

St Peters Swimming Club

When: Saturday 14th February 2026, 10:00am – 11:00am

Where: St. Peter’s School, Brock Pool, 1716 Cambridge Road, Cambridge, 2383

Who: Anyone aged between 8-12 years old

Registrations for St Peters Have-A-Go Event close on 30th January 2026.

Further clubs will be listed here as/if they become available.

To be eligible for the Have-A-Go program, you must:

Be able to swim 25 metres
Not have attended a Have-A-Go event before
Be within the age mentioned (varies depending on host club)

WHY SWIMMING?

Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill
Swimming keeps your child’s heart and lungs healthy, improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture

Swimming provides challenges and rewards accomplishments, which helps children to become self-confident and believe in their abilities

Opens the door to a world of aquatic opportunities (water-polo, surfing-lifesaving, diving, triathlon, surfing and many more!

HAVE-A-GO FAQ's

What does the 'Have-A-Go' Clinic Involve?

The content of the day will vary from location to location; however, the fundamental delivery will be a basic introduction to swimming.

What do we need to know on the Day?

Pool Access:

Access to the pool for all participants and spectators is via the main reception.

Registration:

Once you make your way to the poolside, you will be met by our Swimming Waikato Helpdesk, where you will confirm your Child’s attendance.

Seating:

Children and Caregivers are able to sit in any of the seating areas provided fire exit doors, and main thoroughfares are clear.

Pool Session:

Supported by one of New Zealand’s top swimming club, your child will have the opportunity to run-through some basic swimming skills, including Dives, Turns and Short Sprints!

Parent’s and Caregivers – Feel free to sit-back and relax whilst your child is I the water, we do however ask that you do not exit the facility. There is a café on site.

Post Session

At the conclusion of the Have-A-Go Session , all participants will be required to exit the pool-side and make their way to the changing rooms to shower and get dressed. We expect that all participants are accompanied by an adult caregiver prior to and post-session.

What does the 'Have-A-Go' Clinic Involve?

The content of the day will vary from location to location; however, the fundamental delivery will be a basic introduction to swimming.

My child has never competed in a swimming race, is that okay?

Absolutely! Our goal is to offer a supportive environment as kids give racing a go for the first time.

Does my child need to be part of a Club to attend?

No. The only requirement we have is that kids are able to swim 25m without assistance

Will I be able to speak to someone about joining a club?

All Clinics will be supported by one of our Member Swimming Clubs and will be on-hand to not only support your child but also provide any help with supporting ‘Your Next Strokes’ in swimming.

Can my child join a Swimming Waikato club and chose not to compete?

You bet they can. Our clubs usually offer plenty of swimming options which support all swimming goals (Fitness, Competitive, Social, Skill Development).

Is there a cost to participate?

Not a cent. Our Clinics are generously supported by Blue Float Energy & Elemental Group.

Where can I learn more about my local swimming club?

Please find our list of all Swimming Waikato Member Clubs (Waikato & South Auckland) – Click

Who can I contact if I want more information?

Angeline at [email protected]

What is included in the 'Have-A-Go' Starter Packs?

All participants will receive a ‘Have-A-Go’ swimming bag, which will have a pair of Arena goggles and branded swimming cap. We will also include information on how to support your next steps in your swimming journey.

Note: At this point in time we still have some stock left from last year we will hand out, but need further funding to purchase more.