Learning to swim is a rite of passage for young Kiwis, and there is no shortage of talent at St Joseph’s School in Whakatāne.

Teacher Aaron Box said they had a “fantastic day” at the Whakatāne Aquatic Centre for the school’s swimming sports.

“Even with the chilly temperatures, the students threw themselves into every event, showing enthusiasm, resilience and perseverance while cheering each other on.

“Behaviour was excellent all day, and it was great to see so many students having fun and challenging themselves.”

The competition was lively, with some impressive and, at times, surprising performances among the top placings.

In the eight-year-old divisions, Frankie Gilmore topped the pool for the girls, while Mateg Garden claimed first place for the boys.

The nine-year-old girls’ section was hotly contested with Alayna Hale and Sylvie Rothstein finishing equal first. Maz Mexted took out the nine-year-old boys’ division.

Among the 10-year-olds, Isla Williamson and Myah Kohe shared first place in the girls’ competition, while Quinn de Lacey dominated the boys’ event.

Eilidh Garden secured victory in the 11-year-old girls’ division.

The 11-year-old boys’ race saw Hudson Metcalfe and Raif Richardson finish equal first.

In the 12-plus age group, Te Awaroa Kume touched the wall first in the girls’ race, with Ezra de Lacey doing the same in the boys.