For talented competitive swimmer Janae Higgins, there was always one frustration: the diver’s block.

“I’ve been swimming for almost two years now. Backstroke’s my strongest and then freestyle,” said the 22-year-old Pyes Pā resident and member of the Special Olympics Tauranga squad.

Despite racing in three regional competitions, placing first in one of them, and training for New Zealand’s 2025 National Summer Games in December, getting up on to the diving block was impossible without someone holding her hand.

“Janae has cerebellum atrophy,” said Lisa Higgins, referring to her daughter’s neurological disorder that affects balance and co-ordination. “She has an imbalance in her muscles – so for her, the weakness [when] going up and down stairs meant she needed support.”

In fact, it was a casual comment by Lisa suggesting the simple solution that led to Greerton Aquatic & Leisure Centre looking into accessibility options. Aquatics operations manager at Bay Venues, Mike Page, said the $2000 handrail was custom-made and installed late last year.

“Special Olympics Tauranga swims at Greerton Aquatic & Leisure Centre weekly. This incredible group and all its members are a valuable part of our community of users and they have been using our pools for many years now.

“We are thrilled the new handrail installed on one of our dive blocks in the main lap pool is making a difference to their swimming experience.”

“That handrail means Janae can get up there and dive,” said Lisa. “In fact, it’s not only made the diving block accessible for her, there have been so many kids and other adults who use it too.”

The handrail can be removed for particular activities or events such as swimming sports.

“We believe this handrail is also going to be very useful for many other members of our community who might have previously found it difficult to utilise the dive blocks,” said Page.

“I’ve used it several times now, and it is awesome,” said Janae. “It meant I could do something I’d always wanted to do, and I can do it by myself.”

Janae will be one of 73 Tauranga athletes to compete in sport from indoor bowls, swimming, powerlifting, athletics, ten-pin bowling, golf to basketball at 2025’s National Summer Games from December 10-14 in Christchurch.

Tauranga Special Olympics Club welcomes any sponsorship or support from the community to help the athletes get to the games. To help out, email: tauranga@specialolympics.org.nz.