Keeping cool as the temperature soars.
A big jump . . . Oliver Poa 15, a student at Kaiapoi High School, leaps off the bank near a swimming hole on the Ashley River. PHOTO: JOHN COSGROVE
The refreshing coolness of the water in the Ashley River attracted a number of families out to its banks near Rangiora on Friday to beat the heat as the mercury soared towards the high 20s.
Forecasters had predicted a hot day before Northwesters were expected to arrive later in the evening and with them some relieving rain.

Having fun cooling down . . . Making a splash in the Ashley River on Friday were (from left) Ara Marshall 13, Jazz Everest 14, and Mia Raikes 14. PHOTO: JOHN COSGROVE