No, he hasn't fallen out of his plane and isn't in need of rescue - pilot Malcolm Fort is simply participating in the annual Devonport Mid-Winter Swim.
Mr Fort, who works for Air New Zealand, dug out an old uniform from the cupboard for the occasion, adding a pair of goggles to complete his fancy dress.
The swim was held in front of Windsor Reserve yesterday, a celebration of the winter solstice led by the Druid of Devonport. First to enter the ocean was 10-year-old Charlie Millington, who sprinted forth wearing nothing more than shorts and a grimace.
Most participants were in and out within minutes, attesting to the chilly June waters.
Swimmers were rewarded with a cup of hot soup and the satisfaction of knowing they were braver than the rest of us.
