Mid Winter Swim

Around 60 brave souls of varying age lined Picton’s foreshore on Sunday to take a dip for the More

FM Midwinter Swim.

The best dressed competition was incredibly heated, unlike the water, with pirates, soldiers, fairies and clowns taking the plunge into the Queen Charlotte Sound.

All swimmers who entered were also in the draw to win a brand new heat pump with installation

The care and food of all the animals costs hundreds of dollars every day, with costs rising as they take on more rescues, including cats and kittens. Now the sanctuary needs a financial boost to make sure there is enough hay and baleage to feed the animals.

’Every winter, we need to pur- chase hay to ensure that our animals are kept warm and healthy.

Unfortunately, this year our costs are higher than ever and we need your help to make sure our animals are taken care of.

Any amount you can give will make a difference and help us secure the feed we need, says Alex.

All animals at the sanctuary are available for adoption, except for some long-term pets.

The centre opens to the public every Saturday of the year except July when the ground is at its wettest.

It would be great to have more visitors along, says Alex, who hopes people will want to see their newest arrivals too.

“We know they are going to be so happy here at Te Paranui, with plenty of space to roam and plenty of fresh grass and water to enjoy.

“It’s going to be a new start for them and we can’t wait to give them the love and care they deserve.”

To make a donation visit https:// givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-feedour-rescue-animals-over-winter thanks to Cuddon Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. Swimmers were welcomed back onshore by a fire engine full of warm water to fight the fresh conditions, thanks to