Special Olympics swimmer taken to hospital for observation after swallowing water

Sunday, 14 December 2025

A Special Olympics swimmer was taken to hospital for observation after swallowing water and becoming distressed.

The incident happened on Sunday morning at Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre in central Christchurch.

Hata Hone St John was called to the scene at 9.30am, dispatching two ambulances - a critical care unit and an operations manager.

“One patient was transported to Christchurch Hospital in moderate condition,” said a St John spokesperson.

Police confirmed the incident was “reported as a potential drowning, but no one actually drowned”.

A Special Olympics spokesperson said the swimmer was helped very quickly.

“One of the Special Olympics swimmers this morning swallowed some water during a race and got distressed.

“One of the lifeguards immediately pulled the athlete out of the water and was instantly attended to by the onsite medical team, before she was taken to hospital for observation.

“Special Olympics New Zealand is keeping in close contact with the athlete and her team to ensure she is getting the best possible care. The athlete will hopefully leave hospital this afternoon, but may be kept there overnight for further observation.”

Located on Moorhouse Avenue, Parakiore was officially handed over to Christchurch City Council on October 31. The centre is currently hosting the Special Olympics National Summer Games, held from 10–14 December, and will open to the public from 5.30am on Wednesday.