No one would argue that swimming lessons are absolutely vital for Kiwi kids.
We're an island nation surrounded by water, with more than our fair share of lakes and rivers.
So much of the stereotypical Kiwi way of life, in particular the "great Kiwi summer", involves being in, on or
beside the water.
As a non-confident swimmer, I have this summer enviously watched children fearlessly throwing themselves into waves and diving into lakes without a care in the world.
That confidence is great but parents and educators also have a responsibility to ensure children are taught to have a healthy respect for the dangers. That conditions can change, that the ocean in particular can be ruthless.
