Meet our Lifeguard of the Year
Pāpāmoa surf lifeguard Ryan Hohneck was awarded Bay of Plenty DHL Surf Lifeguard of the Year at the recent SLSNZ Eastern Region Awards of Excellence, hosted at Pāpāmoa on 26 July 2025.
From Patrol Captain to being recognised across the region, Ryan exemplifies leadership, expertise in IRB operations, and commitment to keeping beach-goers safe.
A conversation with Bay of Plenty DHL Surf Lifeguard of the Year - Ryan Hohneck
Q: How did it feel to receive the award?
“It’s an incredible feeling and I am honoured. I do this for the love of the surf movement and really have to thank Pāpāmoa SLSC for the support and encouragement over the years. While we don’t do this for the recognition, it is nice to have received this award and I look forward to carrying on the good work.”
Q: What does Patrol Captain mean at Pāpāmoa?
“It’s about ensuring the entire team gets the best possible experience. Our bread and butter is to ensure no one drowns between the flags, and to prevent drowning and injury, being proactive lifeguards through keeping ourselves and the public safe through preventative actions. It’s important to ensure everyone comes to the beach to have fun and goes home safe.”
Q: Any standout moments from the season?
"In general I think Echo patrol had an outstanding season and I am stoked to have been part of it. I’m really happy with the growth and success of our IRB programme. I think the rescue I was involved in at this year’s Oceans Festival of Junior Lifesaving stands out for the team work and coordination from the water safety event lifeguards. I felt completely backed up and confident with the amount of experience of the lifeguards involved which resulted in a good outcome."
Q: How do you support newer lifeguards?
“Keep lifeguards involved and offer new opportunities in their chosen pathway in surf. Talk to your PC, instructors and other lifeguards to get involved.”
Q: Goals for next season?
“Looking ahead I aim to continue my adventures in the powercraft space through our IRB training and RWC (rescue water craft). Bringing on new instructors and getting more experience in the examiners space will also help us to excel. On patrol we look forward to continuing a good job and providing lifeguards skills and training.”
Q: Any advice for others aiming for this recognition?
“Have some goals in mind that you want to work towards. Be consistent and grow your experience over time - don’t try to do it all at once. Chat to a member about their journey and I’m sure they will provide you some good guidance.”
Thank You, Ryan
We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank‑you to Ryan for his unwavering commitment and exceptional mahi for Pāpāmoa Surf Life Saving Club. Beyond patrol duties, Ryan has been instrumental in growing our IRB and instructor programmes - roles that strengthen our preparedness and capability while mentoring newer lifeguards in their surf‑lifeguard career and leadership journeys. As Sandra Boubee from our Lifeguard Committee put it: “Ryan is the kind of lifeguard who brings people together.… His presence strengthens our club’s culture and community… making him not only a skilled lifeguard but a truly respected and well‑loved member.”
Ryan, your dedication - season after season - helps ensure every beach‑goer gets home safe. You embody our club’s values and inspire us all. Congratulations on such a well-deserved award.
