Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Morrison for the New Zealand Development Coach position as the team prepares for the international campaign later this year.

Kevin teams up with Steve Vaughan, the Team Manager, to lead the team representing New Zealand at the 2016 Sanyo Cup, held from the 2nd-3rd of July 2016 in Miyazaki, Southern Japan.

SLSNZ Sport Manager Mike Lord says "the calibre of all the applicants was extremely high this year and it was certainly a difficult decision to make for our selection panel. In the end, Kevin was selected because of his success as an athlete and coach, along with his obvious passion for the sport."

Currently working as the assistant coach at BMD Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club on Australia's Gold Coast, Kevin brings a a strong set of skills and vast experience to the role after being involved in the sport for over 20 years.

To continue development of the coaching pool and talent in New Zealand, SLSNZ has also selected Danny Morrison (Kevin's brother) to act as Assistant Coach for the Sanyo Cup in Japan.

"We want to give our athletes the best shot at success in Japan this year and in the future, so we're heavily invested in developing our coaching staff, as they are an integral part of our current and future success on the international stage," added Lord.

The full team for the Sanyo Cup, along with the High Performance Squads for the 2016-17 season, will be announced tomorrow (March 20) following the culmination of the Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships.

For more information, please contact:

Mike Lord, Sport Manager - Surf Life Saving New Zealand
ph: 027 457 1026 or email:mike.lord@surflifesaving.org.nz

New Zealand's top surf athletes battled windy conditions during the third day of competition at the 2016 Eastern Bay Energy Trust Surf Life Saving Championships held in Whakatane today.

Around 1,300 competitors took part in events both in and out of the water and with the increasing swell and higher winds, it was a difficult day for many teams.

With just the canoe results to be confirmed, Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service have managed to extend their lead in the overall club championship across today's wide variety of events while Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club maintained their second place. Third place changed during the day with Fitzroy and Mairangi Bay Surf Life Saving Club's now sitting in third equal, while Piha, Omanu and Wainui are close behind.

Event manager, Prue Younger said: "Overall, it was another hugely successful day at the Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championship. Despite the wind coming up a bit throughout the day, we didn't have to change the programme or locations of our events which meant everything ran smoothly.

"In fact, the event has ran smoothly over the past three days because of the dozens of volunteers and race officials who have worked tirelessly out there to keep everyone safe and happy. We certainly couldn't do this without their hard work and support."

Today's events included the board rescue, board relay, beach sprint and short-course canoe races and Younger added today saw an increase of spectators, families and friends which was an added bonus for the athletes.

Some of the toughest events are scheduled for tomorrow's final day and also sees the announcement for the New Zealand High Performance squads and Sanyo Cup team who will travel to Japan to represent the country later this year.

The annual nationwide event, dubbed Surf Nationals, has run for over 100 years and is a integral part of surf lifesaving in New Zealand.

The final day of Surf Nationals 2016 will take place Ohope Beach tomorrow from 8am and will continue until approximately 3.00pm. Spectator entry to the event is free and there are plenty of food, drink and clothing options available for purchase on-site.

Click here for race-by-race results and click here to view more photos.

Mount Maunganui has emerged victorious at Surf Life Saving New Zealand's (SLSNZ) biggest annual event, the Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championship, which came to a close in extremely challenging conditions at Ohope Beach in Whakatane today.

The Tauranga based team, Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service, came home ahead of second-place getters Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club despite the slightly shortened event, while Piha took third, following the four day extravaganza held in the Bay of Plenty.

Event manager, Prue Younger said: "Overall it was a fantastic weekend for the Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championship. Obviously we had to cancel a few events late this afternoon which was a little disappointing after such an awesome weekend, but safety is always our top priority so it needed to be done."

Due to the deteriorating weather conditions and increasing swell, a number of events on Sunday afternoon were cancelled or amended in the interest of athlete safety, though event organisers say the event was still a roaring success despite the changes.

"We're still really pleased about how the Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championship went. All of our athletes did incredibly well and we were happy to see so many spectators and supporters out there cheering them on. There was a really great vibe out there all weekend," said Younger.

"We also wanted to extend our thanks to the local community who have been so supportive and welcoming. All of our teams have commented on how lovely the region is and how awesome the hospitality has been," added Younger.

Today's events consisted mainly of final events including the short and long course boat races, the ski relay, surf race, board race, a two kilometre beach run, and beach run relay along with two of the sport's toughest events: the Ironman/Ironwoman and Taplin events.

A Ironman or Ironwoman event consists of four surf disciplines; ski race, board race, a swim and run. The Taplin event is similar to the Ironman/Ironwoman events, but is considered a team-event and sees athletes each complete one discipline before tagging the next athlete.

The next event on SLSNZ's calendar is the BP Surf Rescue New Zealand Championship, the national IRB competition, and is set to be held on April 2-3 in Papamoa.

Club points tally:

Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service- 140
Papamoa SLSC- 76
Piha SLSC- 67
Mairangi Bay SLSC- 62
Fitzroy SLSC- 57
Waikanae SLSC- 44
Omanu SLSC- 44
Midway SLSC- 31
Titahi Bay SLSC- 29
Wainui SLSC- 29
Lyall Bay SLSC- 26
Orewa SLSC- 26
Red Beach SLSC-26
Waimairi SLSC- 16
East End SLSC- 15
Waimarama SLSC- 14
Paekakariki Surf Lifeguards- 13
Brighton SLSC- 9
New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC- 9
Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services Inc- 9
Whangamata SLSC- 8
North Beach SLSC- 6
Ocean Beach Kiwi SLSC- 6
Sumner SLSC- 6
Sunset Beach LS- 6
Taylors Mistake SLSC- 5
Muriwai Volunteer Lifeguard Service Inc- 4
Maranui SLSC- 3
New Brighton SLSC- 3
South Brighton SLSC- 3
St. Clair SLSC -3
Whakatane SLSC -3
Westshore SLSC- 2
Bethells Beach SLSP- 1
Kaka Point SLSC- 0
Karekare Surf Lifesaving Club- 0
Omaha Beach SLSC- 0
Otaki SLSC- 0
Pacific SLSC- 0
Palmerston North SLSC- 0
Pukehina Surf Rescue- 0
Rarangi SLSC- 0
Spencer Park SLSC- 0
Waikuku Beach SLSC - 0
Worser Bay LSC - 0

Surf Life Saving New Zealand is pleased to announce its High Performance Squads for the 2016/17 season, including the team to represent New Zealand at the 2016 Sanyo Cup in Japan.

2016 Sanyo Cup team:

1. Adam Simpson, Mt Maunganui
2. Ben Cochrane, Omanu
3. Carina Doyle, St Clair
4. Casie Fyall, Waikanae
5. Daniel Hart, Papamoa
6. Jake Hurley, Mairangi Bay
7. Jessica Miller, Mt Maunganui
8. Kelsi Boocock, Red Beach
9. Matthew Scott, Midway
10. Olivia Corrin, Midway

Surf Life Saving New Zealand will be sending two teams to compete at the Lifesaving World Championships (Rescue 2016) in The Netherlands this September - a New Zealand Open Team (Black Fins) and a New Zealand Youth Team (Junior Black Fins).

The New Zealand Open, Development and Youth Squads were named today at the conclusion of the 2016 Eastern Bay Energy Trust New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships in Ohope.

New Zealand Open Squad:

1. Adam Simpson, Mt Maunganui
2. Andrew Trembath, St Clair
3. Andy McMillan, St Clair
4. Carina Doyle, St Clair
5. Chanel Morison, Mairangi Bay
6. Chris Dawson, Midway
7. Cory Taylor, Midway
8. Danielle McKenzie, Mairangi Bay
9. Devon Halligan, Midway
10. Jake Hales, Papamoa
11. Jake Hurley, Mairangi Bay
12. Laura Quilter, Wainui
13. Lewis Clareburt, Lyall Bay
14. Marty McDowell, Titahi Bay
15. Max Beattie, Omanu
16. Murdoch Finch, Omanu
17. Natalie Peat, Papamoa
18. Olivia Eaton, Mt Maunganui
19. Olivia Corrin, Midway
20. Paul Cracroft-Wilson, Fitzroy
21. Samantha Lee, Lyall Bay
22. Steven Kent, Titahi Bay
23. Teneale Hatton, Piha
24. Zoe Hobbs, Fitzroy

The New Zealand Open Team, who will be fighting to retain their back-to-back World Championship title, will be chosen from athletes in the Open Squad between April 28-May 1 after training camps.

New Zealand Development Squad:

1. Ben Cochrane, Omanu
2. Ben Gillies, Piha
3. Ben Johnston, Papamoa
4. Casie Fyall, Waikanae
5. Daniel Hart, Papamoa
6. Daniel Rippon, Piha
7. Hayley Cox, Lyall Bay
8. Jasmine Smith, Wainui
9. Jessica Miller, Mt Maunganui
10. Kelsi Boocock, Red Beach
11. Liam Stephenson, Papamoa
12. Madison Kidd, Papamoa
13. Marina Macartney, Mairangi Bay
14. Matthew Scott, Midway
15. Perry Farrell, Mt Maunganui
16. Rebeca Cole, Fitzroy

New Zealand Youth Squad:

1. Aidan Smith, Papamoa
2. Aimee Daniels , New Plymouth
3. Alaynah Bettany, Lyall Bay
4. Bayden Botha, Mairangi Bay
5. Daniel Barron, Mount Maunganui
6. Devon Familton, St Clair
7. Ella Drinnan, Orewa
8. Ethan Clouston, Papamoa
9. Georgia Rathbone, Waimarama Beach
10. Grace Kaihau, Orewa
11. Hamish Miller, Mt Maunganui
12. Hannah Williams, Piha
13. Jamie Gedye, Waikanae
14. Javon McCallum, Fitzroy
15. Jenna Barrett, New Plymouth
16. Jessica Blakeman, Midway
17. Kane Sefton, Mt Maunganui
18. Lauren Pikett, Waikanae
19. Libby Bradley, Mt Maunganui
20. Locklainn O'Conner, Mt Maunganui
21. Mitch Cowdrey, Papamoa
22. Oscar Williams, Whangamata
23. Seb Johnson, Sumner
24. Sinead Malley, East End Taranaki
25. Zac Reid, Fitzroy

The Development and Youth Squads include athletes who have the potential to represent New Zealand at both Open and Youth levels in the future.

The New Zealand Youth team, who will travel with the Black Fins to Rescue 2016, will be announced between April 4-10.

All squads are selected for a 12 month period and the National Selectors reserve the right to add athletes to squads at any time.

Congratulations to all the selected athletes.

It is with great pleasure that we congratulate the following clubs on winning the BP Rescue of the Month Awards for February.

February 2016 winners:

Northern Region - Bethells Beach- download the citation here

Eastern Region - Whangamata - download the citation here

Central Region - No nominations 

Southern Region - Taylors Mistake - download the citation here

National winner = Northern

Safety, excellence, courage and respect are fundamental to the work clubs deliver throughout New Zealand. The extraordinary efforts shown by all the lifeguards involved were outstanding - you can all be proud of your fellow surf lifeguards.

Admiration of the skill and professionalism shown by those involved in the incident is testament to qualities valued by Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

Or national winner will receive a $500 BP Gift Card and our three regional winners will receive a $100 BP Gift Card for their club.

Click here for more information.

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

With Easter marking the official end to the patrol season, Surf Life Saving New Zealand is urging Kiwis to be cautious when swimming at an unpatrolled beach.

Traditionally, volunteer weekend patrols begin at Labour Weekend in October and continue through to Easter for most of the Northern Region and parts of the Eastern Region. In other parts of the country, where the weather is cooler, patrols have already ended.

Full statistics are still being collated and will become available in May but initial numbers show it's been a huge summer season for lifeguards across the country who have rescued in excess of last season's total of 1,328 people.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand National Lifesaving and Education Manager Allan Mundy says lifeguards have once again done an amazing job of helping to make the country's beaches a safer place for all to enjoy.

"We experienced some fantastic weather around the country throughout December and January, and particularly during the Christmas period, which saw thousands drawn to spending their holidays at the beach and lifeguards were certainly kept on their toes.

"Lifeguards spent over 200,000 hours on patrol, ensuring no one drowned while swimming between the flags on New Zealand's patrolled beaches this summer."

Lifeguards' primary aim is to prevent people from getting into trouble in the first place and the number of preventative actions undertaken this season was around 100,000. Preventative actions can be anything from moving swimmers into the patrolled area to picking up a piece of glass in the sand.

Lifeguards also conducted around 180 searches and on top of that, lifeguards treated around 2,000 people needing First Aid.

Mr Mundy says unfortunately, a large number of beach-goers continued to put themselves in unnecessary danger by swimming at unpatrolled beaches or overestimating their abilities in the surf which resulted in a high number of rescues- and sadly, a high number of drownings.

To date, during the 2015/16 season, there have been 55 preventative* drownings; 14 (25%) of which have been at beaches (unpatrolled). At the same time last year, there had been 50 preventative drownings, of which 13 (26%) had been at beaches.

In the 2014/15 season (October 25, 2014-April 6, 2015) there was a total of 54 preventative drownings of which 13 (24%) were at unpatrolled beaches.

While the patrol flags will now be put away for the winter, the country's volunteer lifeguards will continue to be part of callout squads and search and rescue operations.

They will also continue training, upskilling and qualifying new lifeguards throughout winter so that they are ready to hit the beaches again from October.

Mr Mundy says bumper summer seasons are particularly hard on club's resources so members will also spend some time fundraising for new equipment that will need replacing before next summer.

"Regardless of which NZ flag is flying next year, our red and yellow flags will be out on our beaches. But we need the public's help. As a charity, we rely on donations to keep our service running. So whichever NZ flag you vote for, please help us make sure our red and yellow flags stay for another 100 years."

To donate, visit www.surflifesaving.org.nz or text FLAGS to 849 to donate $3.

When swimming at an unpatrolled beach, SLSNZ encourages people to take care and understand what risks they may be putting themselves, or their children, into and take practical steps to avoid them.

Editor's note:

Some clubs (particularly in the Northern Region and parts of the Bay of Plenty) may choose to extend their patrols on a case-by-case basis as a result of high visitor numbers and/or good weather. Please check with your local club for patrol times.

Figures included are provisional and will likely increase as further data is received from clubs. Confirmed data will be available in May.

*Preventative drownings are defined as all drowning deaths other than those that result from suicide, homicides and land/air vehicle accidents.

Key Beach safety messages:

• Always keep a very close eye on children in or near the water.
• Get a friend to swim with you - never swim or surf alone.
• Watch out for that rip - rips are calm, deep patches of water close to shore that can sometimes have waves breaking to the side. Rippled, discoloured or foamy water with debris can also mean there is a rip present.
• Don't overestimate you or your children's ability to cope in the conditions. Even waist deep water can be life threatening if you step in a hole or get hit by a large wave. Preferably be in the water next to them at all times on a surf beach.
• If you're away from home, check with the locals and ask them about the conditions and the safest place to swim.
• If in doubt, stay out!

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

The rescue of six swimmers from a rip at Bethells Beach has won a national surf lifesaving award.

Each month, Surf Life Saving New Zealand selects a winning rescue from each region as well as an overall national winner for the title of BP Rescue of the Month. Bethells Beach has won the Northern Region award for February as well as being the national winner.

Shortly after 5pm on February 21, a group of six swimmers became caught in a rip around 300m off-shore in front of the patrol tower at Bethells Beach.

The patrol had finished for the day and the lifeguards, along with Patrol Captain Robin Hammond, were putting the equipment away.

Dean Maddaford and Shane Dwyer were the last lifeguards to leave the beach when they noticed the group in trouble. They quickly launched an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) to help the swimmers who were now at the back of the massive surf and were close to drowning.

Noticing the need for further assistance for the multiple patients, James Newland entered the water with a rescue tube, followed closely by Andrew Carr.

By this time, the six swimmers had drifted further out to the back of the surf where the conditions had become very testing for the IRB pick-ups. James successfully secured one patient in a rescue tube and reassured a second while waiting for the IRB to return and assist him. Andrew also managed to reach James and assist his second patient.

IRB drivers Dean and Shane managed to pull two patients out of the surf as they were about to go under the water. They then threw a rescue tube and lifejacket to the remaining patients to help keep them afloat. The massive surf meant the IRB had to drop off their two patients before returning for the other two who were holding on to the rescue tube and lifejacket.

Finally, the last two patients being kept afloat by James and Andrew, were picked up and returned to shore. With all six young men now on the beach, first aid checks were carried out with no further treatment required.

The lifeguards involved demonstrated excellent IRB and tube rescue skills, coordinated by Robin.

Their actions most definitely avoided a certain number of drownings in some very difficult conditions.

The club receives a $500 Gift Card from BP to help with the financial costs of keeping communities safe in the water.

BP NZ Managing Director Matt Elliott says the bravery and quick thinking of the off duty lifeguards was remarkable. "Since 1968 we have been proud to stand behind this amazing organisation that can make the difference between life and death," he says.

For more information about BP Rescue of the Month, click here.

Winners:
Northern: Bethells Beach
Eastern- Whangamata
Central- no nominations
Southern- Taylors Mistake

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Over 300 athletes from 27 Surf Life Saving Clubs are ready to take on the national Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) championships in the Bay of Plenty this weekend.

The 2016 BP Surf Rescue New Zealand Championships will be hosted at Papamoa from April 2-3 and the club will be looking to retain their overall club title for another year after successfully holding on to it at last year's national champs near Dunedin.

Papamoa took a 32 point victory over Taranaki's East End. And this year, they have the highest number of athletes entered with 28.

Sunset Beach has 22 athletes taking part followed by Opunake and Dunedin's St Clair who are both sending 21 athletes.

Crews are travelling from as far North as Omaha Beach and as far South as Warrington, St Kilda and St Clair in Dunedin.

Sixteen crews will race in the Premier grade, with 26 in the Senior grade, 22 in the Women's and 22 in the Under 21 grade.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand Sport Manager Mike Lord says the weekend will bring out some fast, exhilarating racing from some of the best IRB racers in the country.

"We've already seen St Clair take out the top club in the South Island at the BP Surf Rescue South Island Championships earlier this month and Sunset Beach took out the North Island title at Waipu last month. So we expect to see some close racing between those top crews alongside current champs Papamoa. But, as we know with IRB racing, the title could be anyone's on the day and that is half the excitement," he says.

Mr Lord says the conditions are looking good for the weekend with a one metre wave predicted which will make for some thrilling racing.

Racing starts at 8.30am on Saturday with the Assembly Rescue followed by Tube Rescue, Mass Rescue, Open teams and Single Rescue.

Click here for more information about the event or follow the Facebook event page here.

Athlete entries by club:

Papamoa SLSC 28
Sunset Beach LS 22
Opunake SLSC 21
St. Clair SLSC 21
Omaha Beach SLSC 19
Waimarama SLSC 19
New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC 17
East End SLSC 16
Palmerston North SLSC 13
Sumner SLSC 11
Taylors Mistake SLSC 10
Hot Water Beach LS 8
Kariaotahi SLSC 8
Mairangi Bay SLSC 8
Paekakariki Surf Lifeguards 8
Waikanae SLSC 8
Westshore SLSC 8
Bethells Beach SLSP 7
Spencer Park SLSC 7
St Kilda SLSC 7
Brighton SLSC 6
Waikuku Beach SLSC 6
Warrington SLSC 6
Fitzroy SLSC 5
North Beach SLSC 5
United North Piha Lifeguard Service 5
Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services Inc 5

Social media:

Help us share some of the great moments from the BP Surf Rescue Series via our social media hub. You can now share your photos and videos by visiting https://community.surflifesaving.org.nz/members/register. Simply register then start uploading.

You can also share you photos and video through Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #BPSurfRescue16 to have them automatically appear on our story board.

Alternatively, you can email them to BPSurfRescue16@sendpix.org.

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Almost 300 athletes from around the country battled through cold, wet and windy conditions in IRBs [Inflatable Rescue Boats] at Papamoa Beach in the Bay of Plenty, to compete for top honours in the BP Surf Rescue New Zealand Championships today.

Teams from all around the country descended on the popular beach near Tauranga for the two-day event, despite less-than-ideal weather conditions which eventually cleared later in the day.

Event manager Scott Bicknell said: "It was certainly a wet start to the BP Surf Rescue Championships today with almost torrential downpours this morning, but we're lucky the weather got better towards the end of the day which certainly helped.

"We actually didn't have to delay many races despite the weather and our athletes revelled in the conditions. We can't wait for tomorrow, although we hope the weather continues to improve!"

Today's events included the assembly rescue and the mass rescue. Tomorrow sees the tube rescue, single rescue and team races.

At the end of the first day, Sunset Beach Surf Life Saving Club was leading the teams championship, with East End Surf Life Saving Club and Opunake Surf Life Saving Club rounding out the podium in second and third respectively.

Bicknell also wanted to extend his thanks to all of the race officials who stayed out in the poor conditions to ensure the races ran smoothly and safely. "None of this would have been possible without them. They did an incredible job today and I'm sure the athletes are as thankful as we are," he said.

27 clubs are taking part in the national event, from as far north as Omaha Beach near Auckland, and as far south as Dunedin with the Warrington, St Kilda and St Clair clubs all competing.

The action continues again at Papamoa Beach tomorrow from 8.30am and will continue for most of the day. Spectator entry to the BP Surf Rescue New Zealand Championships is free.

Assemby Rescue

U21: Opunake SLSC Hipsters (Jordan Hooper/Thomas Bell/Cory Jury) 1, Sunset Beach LS U21 (Jacob Pullen/Joshua Andrew/Jemima Ferrier) 2, St. Clair SLSC Black (Silas Kemp/Nelson Mears/Ashleigh Hurring) 3.
Senior: East End SLSC O Gee (Nick Horo/Jordan Moller/Reef Robinson) 1, Sunset Beach LS Senior A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Tanisha Robertson) 2, New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC Gaz n Dex (Gareth Goodin/Dex Newland/Zoe Honeyfield) 3.
Women's: Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/Robert Graham) 1, Sumner SLSC Scissor Sisters (Sarah TGruscott/Megan Keats/Olivia Mason) 2, St Clair SLSC Black (Mikayla Garforth/Heather Thompson/Elle Rolfe) 3.
Premier: East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley) 1, Paekakariki SL A (Tyler Mills/Dwight Garton/Jago Dellow) 2, Paekakariki SL X (Richard Whinham/Ben Falepau Willis/Jordan Crosbie) 3.

Mass Rescue
U21: Papamoa SLSC A (Ross Cowdrey/Jake Cowdrey/Kahleia Josephson/Flynn Grey/Samantha-jane Harding) 1, St. Clair SLSC White (Arthur Ibbotson/Angus Mackenzie/Anaia Wiparata/Lucy Duncan/Libby Clifton) 2, Waimarama SLSC Orange (Keegan Merwood/Luke Davis/Greer Whiting/Olivia Fleming/Rachel Finlayson) 3.
Senior: Sunset LS A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Lola Key/Jemina Ferrier/Tanisha Robertson) 1, Westsore SLSC A (Taylor Dick/Ryan Ennor/Jessica Ennor/Tessa Black/Ashleigh Ennor) 2, Waimarama SLSC Blue (Rhys Harman/Luke Harman/Greer Whiting/Bella Herbison/Olivia Fleming) 3.
Women's: Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/.Robert Graham/Lola Key/Gaby Marshall) 1, Sumner SLSC Shakas (Kate Suter/Toni Cranko/Jade Jeffery/Callum O' Brien/Henry Lawson) 2, East End SLSC Babalons (Mckenzie Moller/Billie Alty/Ella /Rideout/Sinead Malley/Reebekaa Robinson) 3.
Premier: East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley/Ella Rideout/Andrew Cronin) 1, Waimarama SLSC Black (Michael Harman/Ben Cross/Olivia Ward/Carolyne Nel/Bertie Bassett-Foss) 2, Sunset Beach LS Prem (Shane Edwards/Mark Edwards/Robert Graham/Gaby Marshall/Lola Key ) 3.

Full race-by-race results are also available on our website at http://liveresults.co.nz/sls

The final day of the BP Surf Rescue Championships saw over 300 athletes from around New Zealand battle it out for top honours in the national IRB [Inflatable Rescue Boat] event, held this weekend at Papamoa Beach in the Bay of Plenty.

Sunset Beach Surf Life Saving Club [Port Waikato] emerged as clear leaders early today as they managed to pull away from their nearest rivals, St Clair Surf Life Saving Club [Dunedin], to win the annual IRB event held near Tauranga.

East End Surf Life Saving Club and host-club Papamoa Surf Life Saving club finished in third equal, only one point behind the second-placed getters, with Waimarama Surf Life Saving Club [Hawkes Bay] finishing close behind them in fifth.

Event manager Scott Bicknell said: "We are stoked with how well everything went at the BP Surf Rescue Championships this weekend. We had a couple of minor issues, like the weather, but we still finished early and everyone is happy and safe, so overall, it has been a great weekend."

Teams enjoyed more settled weather today after yesterday's challenging wet and windy conditions and Bicknell said this proved why these athletes are the country's best.

"The calibre of the athletes was just fantastic and meant we had a lot of really close races which is obviously great for the sport. They all did incredibly well this weekend, so a huge congratulations to everyone who took part," he said.

"It was also good to see so many spectators and supporters out there cheering our teams on. It created a really cool vibe out there and we're already looking forward to the 2017 edition," he continued.

The races held during the two-day event mimic a variety of potential real-life rescues using the iconic orange IRBs and test competitors skills both in and out of the water. Today saw the Teams Race, Tube Rescue and Single Rescue races in variable surf conditions.

The BP Surf Rescue Championships marks the last major event for Surf Life Saving New Zealand for the current season as they prepare for the winter months.

Full results:

Assembly Rescue
U21: Opunake SLSC Hipsters (Jordan Hooper/Thomas Bell/Cory Jury) 1, Sunset Beach LS U21 (Jacob Pullen/Joshua Andrew/Jemima Ferrier) 2, St. Clair SLSC Black (Silas Kemp/Nelson Mears/Ashleigh Hurring) 3.
Senior: East End SLSC O Gee (Nick Horo/Jordan Moller/Reef Robinson) 1, Sunset Beach LS Senior A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Tanisha Robertson) 2, New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC Gaz n Dex (Gareth Goodin/Dex Newland/Zoe Honeyfield) 3.
Women's: Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/Robert Graham) 1, Sumner SLSC Scissor Sisters (Sarah TGruscott/Megan Keats/Olivia Mason) 2, St Clair SLSC Black (Mikayla Garforth/Heather Thompson/Elle Rolfe) 3.
Premier: East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley) 1, Paekakariki SL A (Tyler Mills/Dwight Garton/Jago Dellow) 2, Paekakariki SL X (Richard Whinham/Ben Falepau Willis/Jordan Crosbie) 3.

Mass Rescue
U21: Papamoa SLSC A (Ross Cowdrey/Jake Cowdrey/Kahleia Josephson/Flynn Grey/Samantha-jane Harding) 1, St. Clair SLSC White (Arthur Ibbotson/Angus Mackenzie/Anaia Wiparata/Lucy Duncan/Libby Clifton) 2, Waimarama SLSC Orange (Keegan Merwood/Luke Davis/Greer Whiting/Olivia Fleming/Rachel Finlayson) 3.
Senior: Sunset LS A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Lola Key/Jemina Ferrier/Tanisha Robertson) 1, Westsore SLSC A (Taylor Dick/Ryan Ennor/Jessica Ennor/Tessa Black/Ashleigh Ennor) 2, Waimarama SLSC Blue (Rhys Harman/Luke Harman/Greer Whiting/Bella Herbison/Olivia Fleming) 3.
Women's: Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/.Robert Graham/Lola Key/Gaby Marshall) 1, Sumner SLSC Shakas (Kate Suter/Toni Cranko/Jade Jeffery/Callum O' Brien/Henry Lawson) 2, East End SLSC Babalons (Mckenzie Moller/Billie Alty/Ella /Rideout/Sinead Malley/Reebekaa Robinson) 3.
Premier: East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley/Ella Rideout/Andrew Cronin) 1, Waimarama SLSC Black (Michael Harman/Ben Cross/Olivia Ward/Carolyne Nel/Bertie Bassett-Foss) 2, Sunset Beach LS Prem (Shane Edwards/Mark Edwards/Robert Graham/Gaby Marshall/Lola Key ) 3.

Teams Race: Papamoa SLSC A (Thomas Berthelsen/Kirby Wheeler/Liam Smith/Chad Wheeler/Jamie Vuglar) 1, Waimarama SLSC Black (Michael Harman/Rhys Harman/Ben Corss/Luke Harman/Olivia Ward) 2, Sunset Beach LS A (Lewis Powell/Shane Edwards/Hogan Shrimpton/Mark Edwards/Robert Graham) 3.

Tube Rescue:
U21: St Clair SLSC White (Arthur Ibbotson/Angus Mackenzie/James Coombes) 1, Waikanae SLSC (Connor Mitchell/Oliver Shivan/Holly Hope) 2, Sunset Beach LS U21A (Jacob Pullen/Joshua Andrew/Jemima Ferrier) 3.
Senior: Papamoa SLSC A (Nicholas Coulter/Yannis Kokkosis/Flynn Grey) 1, Westshore SLSC A (Taylor Dick/Ryan Ennor/Jessica Ennor) 2, Waimarama SLSC Blue (Rhys Harman/Luke Harman/Bertie Foss-Bassett) 3.
Women's: Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/Shane Edwards) 1, St. Clair SLSC Black (Mikayla Garforth/Heather Thompson/James Coombes) 2, Papamoa SLSC A (Jane Griffiths/Amie Vuglar/Yannie Kokkosis) 3.
Premier: Waimarama SLSCV Black (Michael Harman/Ben Cross/Bertie Bassett-Foss) 1, United North Piha LS (Leif Neilson/Miles Regal/Tamsin Reilly) 2, Sunset Beach LS Prem (Shane Edwards/Mark Edwards/Tanisha Robertson) 3.

Single Rescue:
U21: St. Clair SLSC White (Arthur Ibbotson/Angus Mackenzie/Anaia Wiparata) 1, Sunset Beach LS U21A (Jacob Pullen/Joshua Andrew/Jemima Ferrier) 2, Opunake SLSC Hipters (Jordan Hooper/Thomas Bell/Cory Jury) 3.
Senior: Waimarama SLSC Blue (Rhys Harman/Luke Harman/Bella Herbison) 1, Papamoa SLSC Grunty (Yannis Kokkosis/Mitchel Brady/Kaylie Hansen) 2, Sunset Beach LS A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Tanisha Robertson) 3.
Women's: St. Clair SLSC White (Briar Taylor/Maysha Ahrens/Libby Clifton) 1, Sunset Beach LC A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/Robert Graham) 2, East End SLSC Babalons (Mckenzie Moller/Billie Alty/Ella Rideout) 3.
Premier: East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley) 1, Papamoa SLSC B (Kirby Wheeler/Chad Wheeler/Kahleia Josephson) 2, Waimarama SLSC Black (Michael Harman/Ben Cross/Olivia Ward) 3.

Overall Points: Sunset Beach LS 37, St Clair SLSC 23, East End SLSC 22, Papamoa SLSC 22, Waimarama SLSC 20, Westshore SLSC 6, Sumner SLSC 6, Opunake SLSC 6, Paekakariki SL 4, Waikanae SLSC 3, United North Piha LS 3, New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC 1.

Trophies:
Housiaux Trophy for Premier Assembly, East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley)
The West Coast Trophy for Premier Mass Rescue, East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley/Ella Rideout/Andrew Cronin)
Dave Hicky Cup for Top U21 Team, St. Clair SLSC White (Arthur Ibbotson/Angus Mackenzie/Anaia Wiparata)
Opunake Trophy for Top Senior Team, Sunset Beach LS A (Sunset Beach LS A (Lewis Powell/Hogan Shrimpton/Tanisha Robertson)
Foxeng Trophy for Top Women's Team, Sunset Beach LS A (Taylor Shrimpton/Robbie Shrimpton/Robert Graham)
Arancia Trophy for Top Premier Team, East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley)
The Canon for Open Teams Race, Papamoa SLSC A (Thomas Berthelsen/Kirby Wheeler/Liam Smith/Chad Wheeler/Jamie Vuglar)
Don Wright Cup for the Premier Single Rescue, East End SLSC Black (Scott Nelson/Campbell Begg/Sinead Malley)
Arancia Cup for Top South Island Team, St. Clair SLSC
BP Club Trophy for Top New Zealand Club, Sunset Beach LS

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is pleased to announce the New Zealand Youth team to compete at the 2016 Lifesaving World Championships in the Netherlands this September.  

The team, known as the Junior Black Fins, consists of 12 athletes; six male and six female.

The Lifesaving World Championships is held every two years and attracts competitors from over 40 nations.

The Youth team component was added to the Life Saving World Championships by the International Life Saving Federation in 2012. The format is the same as the Open national teams event.

They will compete over four days of competition; two days of pool events and two days of beach and ocean events.

Junior Black Fins coach Jonelle Quane says there is a great mix of athletes in the team which she feels is one of the strongest yet.

"These athletes have performed really well, particularly in recent months at regional and national champs, and I look forward to seeing them come together and fight hard to win the Youth title this year," she says.

Rescue 2016 will be held in Eindhoven and Noordwijk in The Netherlands from September 1-18 and the Junior Black Fins will travel alongside the New Zealand Open team (The Black Fins) who will be announced next month.

Athletes:

1. Alaynah Bettany - Lyall Bay
2. Grace Kaihau - Orewa
3. Hannah Williams - Piha
4. Jamie Gedye - Waikanae
5. Libby Bradley - Mt Maunganui
6. Olivia Corrin - Midway
7. Hamish Miller - Mt Maunganui
8. Lewis Clareburt - Lyall Bay
9. Javon McCallum - Fitzroy
10. Kane Sefton - Mt Maunganui
11. Seb Johnson - Sumner
12. Zac Reid - Fitzroy

Coach: Jonelle Quane
Assistant Coach: Matt Sutton
Manager: Ange Johnston
Physiotherapist: Mike Ellis

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Over 100 Kiwi athletes are set to represent 14 of New Zealand's Surf Life Saving Clubs at this year's Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

Familiarly known as "The Aussies", the competition will run from April 16-24 at Alexandra Headland, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba. It's the first time since 1980 that the iconic event has been held on the Sunshine Coast.

Over 7,000 athletes will take part across nine days of competition in the Youth, Open and Masters categories.

Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service has the largest number of Kiwi athletes heading over to the competition, with 48 athletes entered.

The other clubs include Midway (12), Piha (11), Titahi Bay (10), Papamoa (9), Omanu (6), Mairangi Bay (5), Orewa (4), South Brighton (3), Lyall Bay (3) Wainui (2), Fitzroy (1), Whangamata (1) and Otaki (1), totalling 111 athletes.

A number of other Aussie-based Kiwi athletes will also be representing their Australian clubs.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand Sport Manager Mike Lord says the Aussies is always an exciting event for our Kiwi clubbies to take part in. "The competition is always tough and of a high standard but our athletes often come home with a large number of medals. We wish them the best of luck at this year's event," he says.

For more information, visit https://sls.com.au/Aussies/

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Surf Life Saving New Zealand is pleased to announce a new partnership with Reckitt Benckiser (RB) that will help raise funds to keep Kiwis safer on our beaches.

The partnership will see $50,000 raised through the sale of one of RB's leading brands Nuromol; a unique combination of ibuprofen and paracetamol, designed especially to provide stronger for longer pain relief.*

Surf Life Saving New Zealand's logo will be featured on in-store Nuromol displays in pharmacies nationwide and $1 from the sale from each pack sold in pharmacies will be donated to Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO Paul Dalton says this is an exciting opportunity for the organisation to build a relationship that can literally help save lives. "We're grateful for the support and I look forward to seeing the Nuromol campaign in pharmacies across New Zealand," he says.

Head of Consumer & Shopper Marketing for RB Daniel Smith says they see a great alignment in the partnership with Surf Life Saving. "Our mission is to ensure that people have healthier lives and happier homes. Surf Life Saving New Zealand fits well with this vision and we are excited to be able to support them."

"This new partnership will not only allow us to help provide much needed funding for Surf Life Saving New Zealand, but allows our customers to give a little to the essential rescue service as well."

Ends

*(vs. Paracetamol & Paracetamol + Codeine in dental pain studies). Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. TAPS DA1628JD

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Surf Life Saving New Zealand is pleased to announce the seven club members who have been selected to be a part of Outward Bound's community scholarships scheme for 2016.

Classic Course: June 5-25
Chloe Harris (North Beach)
Anna Plunkett (Worser Bay)

Classic Course: July 4-24
Sarah Wilson (Fitzroy)
Samuel Teteina (Midway)

Masters Course: June 5- 25
Andrew Wright (Ruakaka)

Discovery Course: July 31- August 7
Sarah Ball (Oreti)

Discovery 40+ Course: August 13-20
Leigh Sefton (Mt Maunganui/SLSNZ staff)

Outward Bound is an adventure-based experience located in Anakiwa, Marlborough Sounds that uses the outdoors to challenge participants mentally and physically.

The aim of Outward Bound is to build relationships with community organisations whose mission aligns with that of Outward Bound and to support them in helping their community; Outward Bound's mission being "better people, better communities, better world."

For several years now, Outward Bound has offered SLSNZ a scholarship scheme that has given many of our members the opportunity to try a range of their courses.

To find out more visit the Member Education section of our website or visit the Outward Bound website at www.outwardbound.co.nz

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

It is with great pleasure that we congratulate the following clubs on winning the BP Rescue of the Month Awards for March.

March 2016 winners:

Northern Region - Bethells Beach- download the citation here

Eastern Region - Pauanui - download the citation here

Central Region - Titahi Bay - download the citation here

Southern Region - St Clair - download the citation here

National winner = Eastern

Safety, excellence, courage and respect are fundamental to the work clubs deliver throughout New Zealand. The extraordinary efforts shown by all the lifeguards involved were outstanding - you can all be proud of your fellow surf lifeguards.

Admiration of the skill and professionalism shown by those involved in the incident is testament to qualities valued by Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

Or national winner will receive a $500 BP Gift Card and our three regional winners will receive a $100 BP Gift Card for their club.

Click here for more information about BP Rescue of the Month.

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

The Otago/Southland region is getting set to celebrate the Surf Life Saving season and its members' achievements at this year's awards ceremony.

The 2016 Otago/Southland Awards of Excellence will be held at the Lone Star Café and Bar on Friday April 29.

Congratulations to all of the award finalists...

Surf Official of the Year:
Doug Henderson - Kaka Point
Michael Andrew - St Clair
Peter Gibbons - St Kilda

Coach of the Year:
Dave McPhee - Brighton
Frederick Michael - Oreti
Isaac Davies - St Clair
Michael Trembath - St Clair

Event Guard of the Year:
Mat Walters - Brighton
Matthew Bradley - St Clair
Duncan New - St Kilda

Innovation of the Year:
St Kilda SLSC delivering the South Island IRB Champs
Max Corboy: Radio Network - St Kilda

Instructor/Examiner of the Year
Alex Sutherland - Brighton
Ossian Woods - St Clair
Peter Gibbons - St Kilda

Lifeguard of the Year
Liam Trotter - Brighton
Olivia Richardson - Kaka Point
Samantha Nielsen - Oreti
Cam Burrow - St Clair
Nic Brice - St Kilda
Pru Casey - Warrington

Rescue of the Year
March 2016 - St Clair
February 2016 - St Clair
February 2016 - St Kilda

Sports Team of the Year
U19 Woman's Canoe Team - Brighton
Open Woman's Relay Team - St Clair
U21 IRB Team - St Clair

Sports Person of the Year
Gabrielle Trotter - Brighton
Erika Fairweather - St Clair

Volunteer of the Year
Colin Weatherall - Brighton
Mark Lane - Brighton
Owen West - Oreti
Brent Wolf - St Clair
James Coombes - St Clair
Rachel Oakley - St Kilda

For more information, please contact:

Sam Clutterbuck, SLSNZ Club Support Officer
Phone 027 457 1010 or email sam.clutterbuck@surflifesaving.org.nz

The rescue of stranded boaties on the Tairua bar has won a national surf lifesaving award.

Each month, Surf Life Saving New Zealand selects a winning rescue from each region as well as an overall national winner for the title of BP Rescue of the Month. Pauanui Surf Life Saving Club has won the Eastern Region award for March as well as being the national winner.

At 7.30am on Monday March 28, senior lifeguard Martine Smith received a call from local police, requesting assistance with an overturned vessel on the bar. Three patients were involved and none of them were wearing lifejackets.

Martine called her sister Allenie Smith and headed to the surf club, attempting to rally a team on the way. Upon arrival, one of her fellow lifeguards, Mark Gordon, was already there. He was checking out the surf on the bar when he saw the boat overturn.

Jake Smith and Jamie McDell had received a text from the local Coastguard and they went straight to the club. Ryan Winckel and Spencer Raymond also met at the club and prepared two boats which were launched within minutes.

When the lifeguards arrived at the scene, they found two of the three patients had already been rescued by Coastguard, but one was stranded on rocks.

The lifeguards waited to be tasked by Police and the rescue helicopter arrived on scene to assess the situation while Police assessed a way out by land.

In this time, Mark jumped in the water to assess the rock entries and exits available, should the patient need rescuing. He met the patient and gave him his lifejacket.

It was determined that the only way off the rocks was via an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) and the Police tasked the lifeguards to assist.

Mark and Ryan escorted the man off the rocks safely to an awaiting IRB. The patient was taken to a safe point where all patients were accounted for and were assessed by ambulance staff.

Lifeguards are trained to work closely around rocks in challenging conditions and this was a clear demonstration of those abilities. A thorough assessment showed there was no other way of getting the patients off the rocks and without the IRB being able to manoeuvre close to the rocks, the patient was at risk of being swept off.

The club receives a $500 Gift Card from BP to help with the financial costs of keeping communities safe in the water.

BP NZ Managing Director Matt Elliott says the quick and coordinated response from the off duty lifeguards was outstanding. "Since 1968 we have been proud to stand behind this amazing organisation that can make the difference between life and death," he says.

For more information about BP Rescue of the Month, click here.

Winners:
Northern: Bethells Beach
Eastern- Pauanui
Central- Titahi Bay
Southern- St Clair

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Around 100 clubbies put on an impressive performance at this year's Australian Surf Life Saving Championships with 20 of them taking away at least one medal.

Familiarly known as "The Aussies", the competition ran from April 16-24 on Australia's Sunshine Coast.

A total of 111 lifeguards made up the Kiwi contingent representing their clubs Mount Maunganui, Midway, Piha, Titahi Bay, Papamoa, Omanu, Mairangi Bay, Orewa, South Brighton, Lyall Bay Wainui, Fitzroy, Whangamata and Otaki.

A number of other Aussie-based Kiwi athletes also represented their Australian clubs.

Some of the highlights included Mount Maunganui's Hamish Miller taking silver in the Under 17 2km beach run and Fitzroy's Zoe Hobbs claiming gold for her Kurrawa club in the Under 19 beach sprint.

Mt Maunganui's Olivia Eaton took away five medals across five events including gold in the Under 19 beach flags, silver in the Under 19 beach sprint and bronze in the open female beach sprint for Currumbin. She also took silvers with her team mates in the Under 19 beach relay and open beach relay.

Newly named Junior Black Fin Olivia Corrin shone in the Under 17 surf race, taking gold for Midway Surf Life Saving Club while Open Squad member Devon Halligan also took gold in the Open surf belt for Burleigh Heads.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand Sport Manager Mike Lord says all the Kiwi athletes did an amazing job at the Aussies, coming out with some fantastic results.

"A really high number of athletes made grand final events this year which is a huge achievement at this level of tough competition. All of our athletes that took part should be incredibly proud of their performances," he says.

For full results visit the Surf Life Saving Australia website at www.sls.com.au/aussies

Grand Final results:

Max Beattie
Open Male Ironman, 3rd

Olivia Corrin
U17 Female Surf Race, 1st

Devon Halligan
Open Female Surf Belt, 1st

Murdoch Finch
Open Male Beach Flags, 3rd

Danielle McKenzie
Open Mixed Double Ski, 2nd
Open Female Rescue Tube Rescue, 2nd

Ben Johnston
Open Male Surf Team, 3rd

Jake Hales
Open Male Surf Team, 3rd
U19 Male Rescue Tube Rescue, 2nd

Zoe Hobbs
Open Female Beach Relay, 3rd
U19 Female Beach Relay, 3rd
U19 Female Beach Sprint, 1st

Jake Hurley
U19 Male Beach Relay, 1st

Natalie Peat
Open Female Surf Belt, 2nd
Open Female Surf Team, 2nd

Olivia Eaton
U19 Female Beach Flags, 1st
Open Female Beach Relay, 2nd
U19 Female Beach Relay, 2nd
Open Female Beach Sprint, 3rd
U19 Female Beach Sprint, 2nd

Casie Fyall
U19 Female Beach Relay,1st

Hamish Miller
U17 Male 2km Beach Run, 2nd

Hannah Williams
U19 Female Taplin Relay (3 team), 1st

Kayla McKenzie
U19 Female Rescue Tube Rescue, 2nd

Molly Alton, Julie Orgeval, Katrina Gadsbey
U17 single ski relay, 3rd

Chanel Morrison
Open Female Beach Relay, 2nd

Madi Kidd
Open Female Beach Relay, 2nd

Grace Kaihau
U17 2km Beach Run, 1st
Open Women's Single Ski Relay, 1st
U17 Ironwoman, 2nd
Open Women's Board Relay, 2nd
U17 Taplin Relay, 3rd
U17 Single Ski, 3rd

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

The reality of taking out the lifesaving world championship title for the third time in a row is edging closer for the New Zealand Black Fins as they gear up for the next big step in their preparation for Rescue 2016; naming the team.

Rescue 2016, the Lifesaving World Championships, kicks-off in just over four months. The biannual competition is the largest international lifesaving sport competition in the world. This year, it is being held in The Netherlands from September 1-18 with the national team's competition taking place from September 6-11.

It is here that the New Zealand Open Team (the Black Fins) will be defending their back-to-back title of world champions; a title that was first prised from Australia nearly four years ago in Adelaide at Rescue 2012 and again in France at Rescue 2014.

New Zealand is sending two teams to compete at Rescue 2016 and has already named its Youth team. The Black Fins will be named at a team camp in Auckland on Friday afternoon.

Black Fins coach Jason Pocock says the intensity is building as we near closer and closer to the blockbuster event for lifesavers around the world.

"As back-to-back world champions, the spotlight is on us to name our team of 12 (six male, six female) that will represent New Zealand and create more history as the first New Zealand surf lifesaving team to win three world championships titles in a row," he says.

View the live team announcement on the Surf Life Saving High Performance Facebook page from 12.45pm on Friday and to keep up-to-date with the journey to Rescue 2016.

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is proud to announce the team of 12 athletes who will attempt to take out the title of lifesaving world champions for the third time in a row.

The team, known as the Black Fins, will compete at Rescue 2016 (the Lifesaving World Championships) in the Netherlands this September.

SLSNZ President Neale Ames announced the team this afternoon which includes 10 members of the winning Rescue 2014 team.

The six female athletes include Commonwealth Games swimmers Samantha Lee (Lyall Bay) and Laura Quilter (Wainui) and Nutri-Grain Ironnwoman star Danielle McKenzie (Mairangi Bay). Also returning to the team is Papamoa's Natalie Peat who was a late call up to the team in 2014 when Ironwoman Devon Halligan (Omanu) was forced to pull out with an injury. This year, Halligan re-joins the team along with beach sprinter and rising star Olivia Eaton (Mt Maunganui), who represented New Zealand in the Youth team in 2014.

The men's line-up remains unchanged from 2014 and includes former Olympic swimmers Steven Kent (Titahi Bay) and Andrew McMillan (St Clair) along with Ironmen Max Beattie (Omanu) and Cory Taylor (Midway) who took part in their first Kellogg's Nutri-Grain series this year. They are joined by Paul Cracroft-Wilson (Fitzroy) and Chris Dawson (Midway).

Held every two years, the Lifesaving World Championships is the largest international lifesaving sport competition in the world and attracts competitors from over 40 nations.

This year, it is being held in The Netherlands from September 1-18 with the national team's competition taking place from September 6-11.

It is here that the Black Fins will be defending their back-to-back title of world champions; a title that was first prised from Australia nearly four years ago in Adelaide at Rescue 2012 and again in France at Rescue 2014.

Black Fins coach Jason Pocock says the pressure in really on to step up once again and win that title for the third time in a row.

"Our athletes worked really hard to create history in 2014 by winning the first back-to-back world title and we're incredibly proud of that achievement. However, our athletes aren't prepared to stop there and they are hungry to keep striving and achieving and we have a strong team who I believe are capable of doing just that," he says.

Mr Pocock says the team has the advantage of knowing each other's strengths but there are still a busy couple of months ahead of intense training and team building activities before the event in September.

New Zealand will also be sending a previously named Youth team. Like the Open team, the Youth team features six male and six female athletes.

New Zealand Black Fins:

Andrew McMillan, St Clair
Chris Dawson, Midway
Cory Taylor, Midway
Paul Cracroft-Wilson, Fitzroy
Steven Kent, Titahi Bay
Max Beattie, Omanu
Danielle McKenzie, Mairangi Bay
Devon Halligan, Omanu
Laura Quilter, Wainui
Natalie Peat, Papamoa
Olivia Eaton, Mount Maunganui
Samantha Lee, Lyall Bay

Management:
Jason Pocock, coach
Steven Ferguson, assistant coach
Mark Weatherall, manager
Steven Vaughan, assistant manager
Susan Pirrett, physio
Brett Robinson, technical support coach

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Smith, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.smith@surflifesaving.org.nz