Many believe that the temperature this summer has been hotter than in previous years, leading families, including locals and tourists, to seek relief in the ocean.

Trader Jack’s Harbour is a popular public swimming spot for locals and is now attracting more tourists.

With temperatures reaching 28 degrees Celsius yesterday, many locals commented that this level of heat was unprecedented. They also noted that Trader Jack’s harbour has never been as crowded with swimmers as lately.

Ben Koroi, a resident of Rarotonga for nine years, explained that swimming is the only way to escape the current heat.

“Before, it was much cooler even in the summer season and there was barely anyone here swimming randomly and now there is always someone swimming or heaps of people swimming randomly because of the weather,” Koroi said.

“I came here with my son to have a swim too because it’s so hot.”