Jono Ridler

SWIMMING THE GULF

“I want to make it meaningful. I want to make it bigger than me.” In 2023, 33-year-old Jono Ridler completed the longest unassisted continuous open-water swim in New Zealand’s history, crossing nearly 100 kilometres from Karaka Bay, Aotea Great Barrier Island, to Campbells Bay, Auckland, in a gruelling 33-hour odyssey. As if that feat wasn’t enough, Jono’s passion for open-water swimming  became a driving force for marine conservation in New Zealand.

He partnered with marine conservation charity Live Ocean and dubbed his feat ‘Swim4TheGulf’, aiming to raise awareness about the Hauraki Gulf’s declining health and inspire action for its protection. Jono’s epic swim captured the nation’s attention, and less than six months later, the government announced the introduction of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill into parliament, which is now in its final stages.

Jono continues to use his endurance swimming to drive change and safeguard New Zealand’s marine ecosystems. His journey from serious swimmer to influential advocate proves that individuals with passion can make waves in the fight to protect our planet’s precious resources, and stands as an inspiration to all who care about the health of our oceans. Watch a short film on his swim here and follow Jono on Instagram for updates.

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