Feeling brave? Fancy a cool dip to in Taramea Bay to awaken the senses?

Riverton's Mid-Winter Swim kicks off this Sunday (June 21), at midday and everyone is welcome. 

Event organiser Tanya Colyer said only two things can be guaranteed.

"It will be cold, but it will be refreshing.”

She encouraged everyone to come along and take part. Whether you were planning to take the plunge in the chilly waters or support from the shoreline, she said the mid-winter ocean dip was a fun day out for the whole community. 

“After we all jump in the water, we then come together and have a hot cup of coffee and a soup.”

So, “throw a thermos in with your togs and head on down,” she said. 

The mid-winter swim appropriately coincides with the “shortest day”, marking the beginning of the winter solstice. 

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research says this is the point from which New Zealand and the rest of the Southern Hemisphere begins to get more daylight as the sun’s angle in the sky starts to increase.

Invercargill will have approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes of sunlight on Sunday and the weather is forecasted to be mainly sunny with a high of 8 degrees. 

It will still be chilly, however, so come prepared with plenty of layers and towels - especially if you're planning on participating in the icy swim. 

Hot drinks and soup will be available on the day to keep those attending cosy and warm. 

Assembly point is at the barbecue area, next to the playground at Taramea Bay.