Harbour Crossing: Taking themselves on in a test of character

Peter Williams says it's impossible not to enjoy the thrill of a new challenge. Photo / Christine Cornege

Tomorrow's race is a warm-up to the Port of Tauranga Iron Man in January for newsreader Peter Williams.

It is the first-time the self-confessed novice swimmer has competed in the harbour crossing. He was talked into doing it by his coach.

"I was a bit sceptical to say the least."

But to his surprise, Mr Williams' training, which has taken him from the golf course into the water, has progressed well and he is eagerly looking forward to Sunday.

"It's extraordinary - I thought I would struggle but it has been really enjoyable," said Mr Williams.

The 56-year-old suffered from allergic reactions and boredom after swimming in indoor pools.

"Going up and down the pool is really a bit boring."

But swimming in the ocean has relieved both the boredom and the allergic reactions.

He says swimming with a wetsuit has not only kept him warm in the waters off Takapuna Beach and in the Tauranga Harbour, but has also provided added buoyancy.

"Although you have to be careful - you can get lazy in a wet-suit."

Mr Williams, who grew up in the South Island, says he dabbled in swimming when he was younger but "never did the 5am training".

Voted the best newsreader in the country earlier this year, Mr Williams is hoping to finish the race within the allotted 1 hour 45 minutes.

"I've never been a super-athlete but it's rewarding to do things you have never done before," said Mr Williams. "It's impossible not to enjoy it."

Mr Williams, who became a grandfather for the first time last Saturday, has been recording his training on his blog.

He is raising money for the Look Good Feel Better foundation, who offer support, guidance and free makeover workshops for women suffering from cancer, in memory of his wife Cecile who had ovarian cancer before she passed away in 1996.