Wāhine on Water – Empowering Day at Waihi Beach

What an incredible day at Waihi Beach SLSC for the ER Wāhine on Water 2026 event.

With sunshine, energy, and smiles all around, it was clear from the start this was going to be something special. Wāhine from clubs across the Eastern Region came together to learn, connect, challenge themselves, and support one another in a positive and empowering environment.

Pāpāmoa was proudly represented, with six candidates taking part. Our Lifeguard Chairperson Marama Mateparae gave back as a mentor, Nikita Bublitz shared her expertise as an instructor, and Jamie Mardon led the water safety team for the day — an awesome example of club members stepping up across all areas.

As Marama summed it up simply: "It’s always a fun day.”

Participants embraced every opportunity on offer — from developing IRB knowledge and skills to stepping outside their comfort zones in the surf.

For Mackenzie Ward, the event was an opportunity to grow and connect: “I wanted to meet new people, expand my knowledge, and get more time out in the IRBs, as well as connect with female mentors in surf lifesaving.”

The day delivered exactly that and more: “The whole day was such a positive experience. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming—I never felt out of place. I made loads of new friends, some of whom I’ll see again at camp.”

It was also a chance to build skills and confidence: “I learned more about the IRB, especially the mechanics, which was great after just completing my IRB crew course. I even got to launch in bigger shore breaks — it was a cool challenge and great to push myself in those conditions.”

Mackenzie's advice for others thinking about taking part: “100% go for it—you’ll have the best day. Take every opportunity. It’s such a positive environment to learn from other wāhine.”

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who made the day possible — from the organising team, instructors, mentors, and water safety crew, to the volunteers behind the scenes and Waihi Beach SLSC for their incredible hospitality.

Events like Wāhine on Water highlight the strength, support, and connection within our surf lifesaving community — and we’re already looking forward to the next one.