Lifesaving Sport

surf swim
tube rescue
board
ski
run
ironman

team surf race
surf boats
inflatable rescue boat (IRB) racing
canoe

I have enjoyed training and competing in surf sport since I was 5 years old. It is a great way to learn skills in the ocean, to improve endurance fitness and to make friends. My favourite events are the water events, especially boarding. It has taught me skills which I can use as a lifeguard, including board and tube rescues. I also enjoy competing in the team relays and it has been great to make friends at Waihi Beach and from other clubs. The skills and fitness that I get during the season from surf lifesaving have helped me to be more competitive in school athletics, swimming sports, cross country and team trials.

Canoe is an awesome way to get involved in Surf Lifesaving, with your team creating strong bonds and lasting friendships. Canoe provides opportunities for fitness, competition and fun that anyone can get involved in! Competing in canoe gives the opportunity to travel to other beaches and meet people from many different clubs providing great experience and connections. Your canoe team embodies exactly what surf lifesaving is, creating incredible friendships, staying fit and having awesome time while you're at it.

Hi. My name is Amber. I am 15 yrs old and have been doing surf for around 5 years now. I joined surf because I knew a friend who was doing it, and it looked like a heap of fun. Getting out in the water and spending hours catching waves is something I love doing. I enjoy competing and have met loads of friends from all around the country. I now patrol as a lifeguard and have learnt a tonne of new skills. I would definitely recommend joining the club and getting involved.

Hi I'm Fiona, an older, but newly qualified lifeguard. I became involved with the club as my daughter was competing and training with Waihi Beach, even though we live in Taupo! I helped out initially by coaching the 5 year old nippers then helped out officiating at surf competitions. I joined my daughter when she did her lifeguard course and passed my exam alongside her. It certainly took me out of my comfort zone, but the instructors were excellent and filled you with confidence. Since becoming a lifeguard, I have patrolled, helped at surf events, passed a first aid course, passed my crewman's exam and hope to gain my IRB drivers qualification this year. You are never too old to learn! I have also had great fun competing with other Masters at surf lifesaving competitions. The friendship and support received has been awesome as I am not very good fast and was always last! I would definitely encourage anyone to get involved with this fantastic club. You don't need to be a lifeguard or be competitive, just come along and see what we do and get involved.