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More About Ocean Development

The Ocean Development Programme offers an extension of the skills developed in our Sunday Junior Surf Programme. It is designed for our under 10 age group children. Under 9s will be considered on a case by case basis. It is also for children in the under 11 - under 14 age groups who are attending Junior Surf on Sundays and are looking to develop the skills required to join the Ocean Athletes Programme. 

During the Ocean Development Programme, participants will learn a variety of skills suited to their abilities and experience. The programme primarily focuses on board paddling (safely moving in and out of the surf and an introduction to board racing), but will also touch on elements of beach skills and surf swimming when the conditions allow.

Whilst developing the above skills, our experienced coaches use a framework where participants become familiar with “living” our club values – fun, respect, commitment, encouragement, excellence and commitment. This helps them to prepare for the Ocean Athletes Programme, the next step along the pathway to becoming a lifeguard. 

Skills developed during the Ocean Development Programme offer participants an opportunity to compete in Junior Surf sport events throughout the summer, joining other junior athletes from around NZ to share their passion for surf sport. 

Block 1 

13 October - 22 December 2026

Block 2

5 January - 21 January 2027 (school holidays)

Block 3

26 January - 11 March 2027

*no session on 25 February as the coaches will be at the Oceans 2027 Festival of Surf.