Time and again we have attempted to tame the elements. Time and again the lesson remains: respect the sea.
Since Surf Life Saving’s beginnings in the early 20th Century, thousands have learned this lesson the hard way. Today we are working to make that lesson easier. Our purpose, to 'prevent drowning and injury in New Zealand' is achieved as much through education as through lifeguard services. Our Beach Education programme is an experiential programme where school children spend the day at the beach, taking part in both theory and practical elements. For many it is their first experience in the surf. Over 40,000 school children attend each year from more than 450 primary and intermediate schools. Surf to School takes the Surf Lifeguard into the school, and is an alternative to Beach Ed, without the practical components. The programme is available to schools in the wider Auckland and Northland areas. For those schools unable to participate in Beach Education, we offer classroom resources for years one to eight.
By catching them early, we are equipping them for a lifetime of safety and enjoyment at the beach. In this section, find out more about:
For further information on Water Safety education programmes and resources please contact: communications@surflifesaving.org.nz.
