How to Get Started

• Under 14: Junior Surf Programme.

• 14+ years: Choose between:

  • Surf Lifeguard Award (SLA) — full lifeguard qualification.

  • Patrol Support Award — support patrols without full SLA.

Lifeguarding Pathway

• Annual Refresher to stay current.

• Add-on awards: IRB Crew → IRB Driver → RWC Operator. More info here

• Rock Rescue Module. More info here

• First Aid Training: Surf First Aid → Advanced Surf First Aid. More info here

• Leadership: Patrol Captain → National Lifeguard School → Advanced Lifeguard Award.

Leadership & Development

• Patrol Captain Course leads to club/regional leadership.

• Facilitator Training and bp Leaders for Life for young leaders.

Sport & Coaching

• Get involved in surf sports.

• Officials: Level 1 → Level 2 → Level 3.

• Coach Development Pathway available at all levels.

Patrol Support

• Focus on radio communications, first aid, and beach operations.

Course Bookings

A full course booking calendar is available on the Surf Life Saving New Zealand website https://www.surflifesaving.org.nz/calendar. To register for any courses, please contact Megan at whakatane@surf.org.nz.