Beaches and swimming

BEACHES Castlecliff Beach – A short drive from the city centre, this beach is popular for swimming and surfing and is patrolled by lifeguards during summer. There is also a playground and skate park. The North Mole is a great fishing spot. Kai Iwi Beach (Mowhanau) – A family-friendly beach offering swimming, fishing, playground, wood-burning barbecues and a great place for camping. Kai Iwi beach is reached via Rapanui Road 14km west of Whanganui and is patrolled by lifeguards during summer. South Beach – Adjacent to the Whanganui Airport. As soon as the tide goes out South Beach becomes a 20km stretch of sand, excellent for a day’s picnic, surfing or fishing. There is a car parking area and a short walk to the beach, but for full beach access a 4X4 is advised. Take care at all times and watch the tides as South Beach is great fun but an unpatrolled area.

BEACH SAFETY

As beautiful as our beaches may appear, they can also be dangerous. Always: Swim only at lifeguard-patrolled beaches (red and yellow flags will be visible) Always swim between the red and yellow flags Never swim alone or leave children unattended

During the summer season, check out the Surf Life Saving Facebook page for updates on conditions at Castlecliff and Kai Iwi beaches: facebook.com/ Wanganui-Surf-Lifeguard-Service-Inc

SWIMMING POOLS Whanganui has two public swimming pools – the Splash Centre at Springvale Park and the outdoor swimming complex at the Whanganui East Aquatic Centre. The Splash Centre is an indoor facility that caters for the whole family, with lane swimming, a lazy river, spa pools, sauna, steam room, learners’ and toddlers’ pools and two giant hydroslides. There is also an indoor rowing and fitness centre. Contact the Splash Centre on 06 349 0113, email splashcentre@ splashcentre.co.nz or visit www.splashcentre.co.nz for admission charges, opening hours, classes and associated activities.

The Whanganui East Aquatic Centre at 67 Tinirau Street has a diving board, a 33m outdoor pool, learners’ pool, hydroslide, barbecue, picnic facility, lawn area and large shaded area. The pool is open during the summer months. Contact the pool office on 06 343 6650 for opening hours and entry fee details, or visit www.splashcentre.co.nz