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Police Minister Stuart Nash presents Karley Hunt with jelly beans, one of her favorites snacks, for her plan Cook Strait Swim
A Taranaki senior sergeant’s attempt to become the first serving police officer to swim the Cook Strait has been put on hold by some shifty weather. Karley Hunt was set to try the swim on Saturday, in a bid to raise funds for her local Blue Light charity, which creates opportunities for at-risk youth.
But with weather outlook worsening for the region, the charity in the morning announced the attempt had been put off and was not promising for the next few days either.
“The weather is marginal for a start [Sunday] or Monday so we will just wait and see for now,” they said.
“It doesn’t mean Karley gets to rest she is back in the pool this morning for another training swim.”
If the weather didn’t come right over the weekend, another attempt would be made in a two weeks’ time.
Police Commissioner Mike Bush earlier described Snr Sgt Hunt as inspirational.
“I am aware that Karley has put in a huge effort to prepare for the swim — she is an asset to her district and its communities,” he said.
A significant amount of planning has gone into the swim – exactly where it starts and finishes relies heavily on tidal currents and weather.
“I’ve done enough and I am ready to go, but I’m not a speed demon so the crossing will mean about 12 hours in the water facing the challenges of currents – sea lice, mental fatigue, and maintaining a good pace,” Snr Sgt Hunt said.
Sustaining her on the journey will be a steady supply of snacks, including peanut energy bars, warm Milo, and jelly beans.
Updates on her progress will also be posted on the Central District Police Facebook page.