Reckon our local surf lifesaving clubs are ‘just’ about watching the beach? Think again!

Earlier this year, Rodney Times reported that some surf lifesaving clubs are essentially just babysitters – at least according to Mayor Wayne Brown. At the Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Board meeting, he commented: “Lifesaving is almost a ‘cannot touch motherhood and apple pie thing’ but even in that you’ve got to admire the lifesavers in Piha, North Piha, Karekare and Muriwai, but not particularly justification for Mairangi Bay and Red Beach. Places that don’t have surf has [sic] always been a question of mine… it’s more like babysitting than actually lifesaving…”

Surf Life Saving Northern Region profoundly disagreed, highlighting the essential role those clubs play, including how locally trained lifeguards often bolster teams to the north and west.

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum appeared similarly unimpressed, writing on Facebook: “Pretty disappointing comments from our mayor questioning the validity of Mairangi Bay, Orewa and Red Beach surf clubs or ‘babysitting organisations’ as he referred to them.

“Not only are these clubs hugely important in the wider network as necessary training grounds that feed into the West Coast clubs, but they were some of our first responders in the Auckland Anniversary floods, supporting the wider area in emergencies.”

Mairangi Bay Surf Life Saving Club (MBSLSC) recently celebrated its 70th birthday. Almost certainly, its 1,000 current members and thousands of people who have been assisted by its volunteers over the decades might also take issue with the mayor’s opinions.

There are 74 surf lifesaving clubs across Aotearoa. MBSLSC is one of the largest, with approximately 200 active volunteer lifeguards who donate over 5,000 hours each summer, and thousands more from parents, coaches and supporters. Plus, the club’s Junior Surf programme has about 600 members aged between 5 and 13. This programme focuses on “beach smart” education, water safety, teamwork, and surf sports.

“It’s all about developing practical skills and boosting confidence in a safe, fun environment,” says club member Michael “Bucky” Buck. “These young people are our future lifeguards and community leaders!”

When Brydon Storey’s family moved to New Zealand from the Seychelles, MBSLSC was a great way of meeting people. “The day after we arrived, we headed down to the beach, which felt freezing compared to where we’d come from! But I immediately made a couple of friends and enjoyed a fun (if cold) surf session.”

Loads more friends and fun is how it’s continued, too, with much more besides. “What I’ve learned at the club goes well beyond ‘just’ the physical skills associated with lifesaving,” reflects Brydon, who was a member of New Zealand’s canoe marathon squad at the 2024 World Championships. “There’s a great connection with sports skills. I’ve also gained confidence in the water and leadership roles, with coaching, team building and as a patrol captain.”

Jane Nolloth also joined MBSLSC in her early teens. A competitive swimmer, she had friends at the club and saw how much they enjoyed their involvement. “I quickly fell in love with the idea of service, working with amazing people to help others.”

As with Brydon, Jane enthusiastically acknowledges how much she’s gained over the past four years. “Physically, I’m a better athlete. My leadership skills have really developed as well – I’m an instructor-in-training and a patrol captain. I’m also qualified to drive IRBs (inflatable rescue boats), which we used to help people during the Auckland Anniversary floods.”

Additionally, Jane is a qualified first aider, which includes CPR. “When you have so many individuals who’ve been taught practical skills like these and have the confidence and mindset to be able to step into situations and use them, it’s helping to make our whole community a safer place, not just down at the beach.

She adds thoughtfully, “At the club, everyone has a role they can thrive in. There are so many different aspects, truly something for everybody. I don’t think people outside the club necessarily realise that.”

The long road to new facilities

Success requires growth.

As far back as the early 2000s, the need for a new patrol base and clubhouse became clear. Membership was increasing, the club’s services were expanding across the wider area, and the concept for new premises had the support of North Shore City Council. However, since the Super City merger, this project has encountered several stumbling blocks, including the development of a Reserve Management Plan (RMP) for the Mairangi Bay Beach Reserve.

Could it be that, finally, things are edging closer to a positive conclusion? The signs are hopeful.

In 2023, Hibiscus and Bays Local Board approved funding for a full review of the RMP, and subsequent public consultation showed support for MBSLSC to remain based within the reserve. Last year, following specialist site assessments, just one suitable location, at the northern end of the reserve, was identified for a new facility. The final consultation was scheduled for Friday, 19 July (the day that ShoreLines went to print), with a decision expected from the local board in August. Look out for updates on the magazine’s Facebook page, and then in the next issue (October /November).