- The Big Swim raised $644,360
- 2,581 swimmers clocked up 29,511km – that's equivalent to driving Aotearoa 14 times
- This year’s impact nearly doubled compared to The Big Swim 2024, with more participants, greater distances covered, and more funds raised.
3 July, 2025 - Coastguard is celebrating the incredible efforts of thousands of Kiwis who took the plunge this June for The Big Swim, raising an impressive $644,360 (and counting) to help save lives on the water.
Now in its second year, The Big Swim challenges New Zealanders to get active while raising funds for Coastguard – the country’s primary marine search and rescue organisation, powered by more than 2,000 volunteers.
During the month of June, 2,581 swimmers across the motu covered a total of 29,511km – diving into local pools, braving chilly ocean and river swims, and pushing personal limits in support of a lifesaving cause.
The Big Swim highlights include:
- Leigh Swims team (Northland) featured on SevenSharp, covered 623.2km and raised $25,100.
- Sunas Team, led by Nicky Harris, swam 132.3km and raised $15,349 memory of her husband.
- Louise Orton, who lost her partner in a snorkeling incident, swam 20.8km and raised $6,855.
Cook Island Olympic swimmer and The Big Swim ambassador Kirsten Fisher-Marsters clocked up 60km this month – her first time back in the pool since retiring in 2023.
“This challenge was about giving back, supporting a good cause, and helping others feel safe and confident in the water,” said Fisher-Marsters.
“Swimming has been a big part of my life, but even after all my years in the pool, I’ve always had a lot of respect for the water. I know how quickly things can change – and how important it is to have people like Coastguard there when they do.”
Coastguard CEO Carl McOnie says the success of the campaign reflects the deep connection Kiwis have with the water, and with those who keep them safe.
“We’re blown away by the generosity and determination of every swimmer, sponsor and supporter who got behind The Big Swim,” says McOnie.
The personal stories that we’ve heard this month have been truly inspirational.
This money directly funds our volunteer training, keeps our rescue vessels fueled and maintained, supports our education community – all things that keep boaties and all water users safe every day, he says.
ENDS
Notes for journalists:
The Big Swim participants set their own swimming goals, whether that’s a few lengths or a more ambitious distance. They’re encouraged to ask friends, whānau, and colleagues to sponsor their efforts and raise funds for Coastguard. Along the way, swimmers can unlock rewards as they hit fundraising milestones.
In its inaugural event held in July 2024, 1,266 swimmers logged more than 8,000 swims, racking up over 14,000km and raising $350,000 for Coastguard.
