Elizabeth Grimmer MNZM

The Sport of Swimming lost one of its special people in December
Elizabeth Grimmer MNZM 31st August 1939 - 27th December 2025
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Western Districts Swimming Club (known as Waitakere Swimming Club)
Foundation and Original Committee Member 1962
Committee Member for over 20 years. It was noted that Elizabeth only missed one
committee meeting during this time (Silver Jubilee information)
Life Member of Western Districts Swimming Club 1971

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Swimming Auckland
Service Award 1974
Honours Award 1984
Life Membership 1991

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Swimming New Zealand
Service Award 1982

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Queen's Honour
MNZM 2002
Member of the NZ Order of Merit

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Elizabeth was instrumental in the establishment of the 1990 Commonwealth Games Pool in Henderson, later renamed West Wave. As a Councillor and member of the Henderson Community Board, she was part of the inaugural working group that worked closely with the Henderson Council to bring the project to fruition. She also served for many years on the Waitakere Licensing Trust, contributing significantly to the wider community.

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As Chair of the fundraising committee for the 1990 Commonwealth Games Pool, Elizabeth was determined that the pool be built in Henderson. She enlisted members of Western Districts Swimming Club (now Waitakere Swimming Club) to go door-knocking throughout the Henderson area and to approach local businesses, raising an extraordinary amount of money in support of the project. Elizabeth also oversaw the establishment of the electronic timing systems for the Games. Wearing her Commonwealth Games uniform with great pride, she served as a timekeeper throughout the event. West Wave remains one of Elizabeth’s greatest achievements and enduring legacies.

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For many years, Elizabeth was a highly valued member of the Swimming Auckland Competition Panel and worked closely with both Swimming Auckland and Swimming New Zealand, particularly in fundraising initiatives to support teams competing overseas. Swimming Auckland and Swimming New Zealand owe a significant debt of gratitude to Elizabeth, who worked tirelessly for swimming in Auckland for 40 years.

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She remained an avid supporter and passionate follower of the sport for a further 20 plus years, right up until her passing on December 27, 2025. Elizabeth’s contributions to swimming and to her community were truly remarkable and will be long remembered.