Nine young swimmers from the Bay of Plenty were among the 36 chosen for the Jetstar Super Swim Squad Camp held over the weekend.

The camp attendees were chosen from the age group winners of the 200m Banana Boat OceanKids events held nationwide during the 2016-2017 New Zealand Ocean Swim Series.

Former triple Olympian and Silver Commonwealth Games medallist Dean Kent was the camp's head coach, and was impressed with the talent on display.

'Being around these enthusiastic and motivated budding young swim stars is a really inspiring experience for myself and my fellow coaches. If this is the next wave of swimming talent, New Zealand is in good hands.”

The five-strong coaching team, which includes Paralympians and former Olympic and Commonwealth Games representatives, took the kids through sessions in both a pool and ocean environment, with an emphasis on confidence building and mentoring.

Young Bay of Plenty squad member Te Manewha Rikihana really enjoyed the experience.

'It's been awesome being able to attend the Jetstar Super Swim Squad Camp again. It's cool to make new friends and learn new swimming techniques that I can put towards my races."

Laine Watson, mother of squad member Brin Watson, says her son was ‘super stoked' to be able to attend the camp.

'I hope he has left feeling inspired. It's an amazing opportunity to be around people who are enthusiastic about swimming. The camp not only provides a goal for these kids to work towards but recognises that kids at any swimming level can make it. Brin worked really hard to get here so it's nice to see his results pay off!"