Holiday gift for swim fans

Anyone who's keen for a free dip can visit the Genesis Energy Recreation Centre in Masterton, from January 26 to February 1.

A $12,000 grant from Lands Trust Masterton will cover the cost of the week making access to indoor and outdoor pools and hydro slides free.

Lands Trust committee chairwoman Christine Brewster said the grant was an extension of the trust's annual grants that assist school swimming programmes and pool hire for the primary school and intercollegiate swimming champs.

"This is a new way for the trust to benefit all Masterton people as the holidays draw to a close and as family finances tend to tighten up after Christmas," Ms Brewster said.

"The pools are a wonderful facility for our town and we wanted to give everyone the chance to take full advantage of them during the warm summer weather."

Lands Trust Masterton annually distribute more than $1million of income from its property rentals in the form of grants to assist educational, cultural and community activities in Masterton.

Genesis Energy Recreation Centre manager Kieran Te Whare was pleased Lands Trust had made the free week possible.

"The opportunity that Lands Trust has given to a lot of people that may not be able to visit during this time, being after Christmas, I think it's awesome," Mr Te Whare said.

Entry is usually $5.10 for adults and $3.60 for children, students and over 60s.