Pip Wallace is already making a splash at Ōtaki

Our newest AquaFit instructor, Pip, is a familiar face to our regular pool users in Ōtaki; a few years ago she moved to Kāpiti to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren, and some will recognise Pip’s daughter, Penny, as one of the smiling staff on the front desk at Ōtaki Pool. Pip and Penny, along with their whānau, actively participate in many pool-run events, from triathlons to whānau fun days.  

Pip was contemplating a career change from her busy corporate job - which involved frequent travel across the country - to something closer to home that would give her more flexibility to spend time with her grandchildren.

Aquafit session at Ōtaki pool with Pip Wallace.

It was Aquatics Training and Programme Coordinator, Zuri Brudenell, who encouraged her to try her hand at teaching AquaFit. 

Having spent much of her life living and working on a farm, Pip has always maintained a healthy lifestyle and enjoys keeping fit, so she wasn't concerned about her fitness level, but says the prospect of jumping into the unknown was initially a little daunting. However, with Zuri's support, who taught her AquaFit techniques and co-taught classes with her until she felt confident, Pip quickly adapted. Zuri also encouraged Pip to attend a training workshop by a visiting Australian instructor, Marietta Mehanni, which proved invaluable in planning her AquaFitness classes. 

Pip shared that although she was nervous at first, her confidence has grown with the support of her team and her AquaFit participants. There is a fantastic group of regulars who attend classes multiple times a week to stay fit and connect with each other. 

Pip is loving her new lifestyle change, which not only involves running AquaFit classes for adults, but also teaching children valuable water safety skills as a Learn to Swim instructor. She has enjoyed learning new skills and connecting more with her community. 

Join us in welcoming Pip Wallace to our team! We are excited to see the positive impact she will continue to make in our Aquatics community.