How amazing was the thick fog a few weeks ago in Wellington? I picked just the right time to go because an hour after I took these photos, it had lifted. I didn’t swim out more than a few metres because otherwise I would have quickly lost my bearings. It was definitely one of my favourite, more memorable swims and I’m so glad I took my GoPro into the water (which I don’t usually do) so I could share it with you.
Below is a photo I took after a swim I did last week, at exactly the same spot. In fact, I had three swims in 24 hours because it was so sunny and calm.
The first swim followed a strong southerly and there was a lot of kelp bobbing around. A year ago I would’ve been squeamish, but I have learned so much about seaweed (and writing about it for one of my Master’s assignments) that seeing it feels great and I’m very happy to swim through multiple strands of it.
Speaking of seaweed, there’s an excellent local seaweed fundraiser happening if you want to support the restoration of giant kelp forests in Wellington Harbour. You can buy a t-shirt with illustrations of local seaweeds/rimurimu and their names in English and Māori.
It’s April and I’m still swimming in togs. I’ve decided to make that my challenge for the next six months. I don’t want to speak too soon, but so far it doesn’t feel that different from a short-sleeved wetsuit. I feel freer, more connected to the water and there’s less gear to dry off afterwards. And as the days get shorter, drying gear gets a bit more challenging too…
Otherwise, life continues to glide along quickly. This week I have a study break which I’m excited about (and a few days before school hols begin) – a break from all the Zoom lectures, readings and assignments – and hopefully lots of swimming!
Great photos.